Virginia legal term
Emergency response in Virginia Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Virginia legislative session
In Virginia criminal law, “Emergency response” is a term defined by statute rather than by its everyday meaning. Its statutory definition — quoted verbatim below — controls how the term is applied throughout the Virginia criminal code.
What does “Emergency response” mean in Virginia criminal law?
"Emergency response" means a response by a firefighter, law-enforcement officer, or emergency medical services personnel to a situation where human life, health, or property is in jeopardy and the prompt provision of aid is essential to protect human life, health, or property. (Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-461.1)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.