Virginia § 8.01-40.3 - Unauthorized dissemination, etc., of criminal history record information; civil action
Full text of Virginia Code of Virginia § 8.01-40.3 — Unauthorized dissemination, etc., of criminal history record information; civil action, with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 8.01-40.3. Unauthorized dissemination, etc., of criminal history record information; civil action
A. Any person who disseminates, publishes, or maintains or causes to be disseminated, published, or maintained the criminal history record information as defined in § 9.1-101 of an individual pertaining to that individual's charge or arrest for a criminal offense and solicits, requests, or accepts money or other thing of value for removing such criminal history record information shall be liable to the individual who is the subject of the information for actual damages or $500, whichever is greater, in addition to reasonable attorney fees and costs.
B. Nothing in this section shall be construed to impose liability on:
1. An interactive computer service, as defined in 47 U.S.C. § 230(f), for content provided by another person.
2. Any speech protected by Article I, Section 12 of the Constitution of Virginia.
C. As used in this section, "criminal history record information" means the same as that term is defined in § 9.1-101.
Source: official Virginia text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Virginia § 8.01-40.3
What does Code of Virginia § 8.01-40.3 cover?
Section 8.01-40.3 ("Unauthorized dissemination, etc., of criminal history record information; civil action") 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 § 8.01-40.3?
A common citation format is "Code of Virginia § 8.01-40.3" (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 § 8.01-40.3 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.