Virginia legal term
Novelty lighter in Virginia Criminal Law
Current through 2026 Virginia legislative session
In Virginia criminal law, “Novelty lighter” 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 “Novelty lighter” mean in Virginia criminal law?
"Novelty lighter" means a mechanical or electrical device containing a combustible fuel typically used for lighting cigarettes, cigars, or pipes that is (i) designed to resemble a cartoon character, toy, gun, watch, musical instrument, vehicle, animal, food, or beverage, or (ii) a fanciful article that plays musical notes, has flashing lights, or has other entertaining features that are appealing to or intended for use by juveniles. (Va. Code Ann. § 18.2-371.4)
Statutes defining or using this term
Related terms in the same statutes
This reference is informational and is not legal advice.