Virginia legal term
Murder in Virginia Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Virginia legislative session
In Virginia criminal law, “Murder” 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 “Murder” mean in Virginia criminal law?
"Murder" means a violation of, attempted violation of, or conspiracy to violate § 18.2-31 or 18.2-32 where the victim is (i) under 15 years of age or (ii) where the victim is at least 15 years of age but under 18 years of age and the murder is related to an offense listed in this section or a violation of former § 18.1-21 where the victim is (a) under 15 years of age or (b) at least 15 years of age but under 18 years of age and the murder is related to an offense listed in this section. (Va. Code Ann. § 9.1-902)
Statutes defining or using this term
Charges using this term
- Providing false information or failing to provide registration information
- Criminal solicitation
- Eligibility for parole
- Entering dwelling house, etc., with intent to commit larceny, assault and battery or other felony
- Entering dwelling house, etc., with intent to commit murder, rape, robbery or arson
- First and second degree murder defined
- Obstructing or injuring canal, railroad, power line, etc
- Possession or transportation of firearms, firearms ammunition, stun weapons, explosives or concealed weapons by convicted felons
- Serious or Habitual Offender Comprehensive Action Program
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.