Virginia § 8.01-278 - When plea of infancy not allowed; liability of infants for debts as traders; liability of infants on loans to defray expenses of education
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 8.01-278 — When plea of infancy not allowed; liability of infants for debts as traders; liability of infants on loans to defray expenses of education, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8.01-278. When plea of infancy not allowed; liability of infants for debts as traders; liability of infants on loans to defray expenses of education
A. If any minor now transacting business or who may hereafter transact business as a trader fails to disclose (i) by a sign in letters easy to be read, kept conspicuously posted at the place wherein such business is transacted and (ii) also by a notice published for two weeks in a newspaper meeting the requirements of § 8.01-324, the fact that he is a minor, all property, stock, and choses in action acquired or used in such business shall as to the creditors of any such person be liable for the debts of such person, and no plea of infancy shall be allowed.
B. If any minor shall procure a loan upon the representation in writing that the proceeds thereof are to be expended by such minor to defray any or all expenses incurred by reason of attendance at an institution of higher education, which has been approved by any regional accrediting association which is approved by the United States Office of Education, or by reason of attendance at any school eligible for the guarantee of the State Education Assistance Authority, such minor shall be liable for the repayment thereof as though he were an adult, and no plea of infancy shall be allowed.
Code 1950, §§ 8-135, 8-135.1; 1960, c. 78; 1970, c. 7; 1977, c. 617.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 8.01-278
What does Code of Virginia § 8.01-278 cover?
Section 8.01-278 ("When plea of infancy not allowed; liability of infants for debts as traders; liability of infants on loans to defray expenses of education") is part of the Code of Virginia, the codified statutory law of Virginia. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Virginia § 8.01-278?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 8.01-278" (Virginia). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Virginia law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Virginia official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Virginia attorney.
How does Virginia § 8.01-278 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Virginia can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Virginia.