Virginia legal term
Facial covering in Virginia Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Virginia legislative session
In Virginia criminal law, “Facial covering” 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 “Facial covering” mean in Virginia criminal law?
"Facial covering" means any opaque mask, garment, helmet, headgear, or other item or device whereby a substantial portion of the face is hidden or covered to conceal the identity of the wearer, including a balaclava, tactical mask, gator, ski mask, or other similar face-shielding item or device. (Va. Code Ann. § 19.2-83.6:2)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.