Virginia Code § 18.2-446 provides definitions for key terms used in the state's crimes and offenses laws. It clarifies the meanings of terms such as benefits, party officials, pecuniary benefits, public servants, and administrative proceedings. These definitions help establish the scope and application of related criminal statutes.
In Virginia law, 'benefits' refers to any gain or advantage, including those for others in whom the beneficiary is interested, but excludes benefits promised to groups of voters as a result of public measures.
A 'public servant' includes officers or employees of the state or its subdivisions, members of the General Assembly, judges, and others participating in government functions, but not witnesses.
An 'administrative proceeding' is any non-judicial process, such as hearings before planning commissions or zoning boards, that is based on a record or documentation required by law.
These definitions clarify the scope of legal terms, ensuring consistent interpretation and application of criminal statutes across various cases and legal proceedings.