Virginia legal term
Least restrictive alternative in Virginia Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Virginia legislative session
In Virginia criminal law, “Least restrictive alternative” 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 “Least restrictive alternative” mean in Virginia criminal law?
"Least restrictive alternative" means the treatment and conditions of treatment which, separately and in combination, are no more intrusive or restrictive of freedom than reasonably necessary to achieve a substantial therapeutic benefit or to protect the minor or others from physical injury. (Va. Code Ann. § 16.1-336)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.