Virginia Code § 19.2-368.2 provides key definitions related to criminal proceedings, including terms like 'claimant,' 'commission,' 'crime,' 'family,' 'sexual abuse,' and 'victim.' These definitions clarify the scope of the chapter and specify what constitutes a crime and who qualifies as a victim or family member in legal contexts. The section ensures consistent interpretation of these terms within Virginia's criminal procedure laws.
A 'victim' is a person who suffers personal physical injury, death, or emotional injury as a direct result of a crime, including acts of terrorism, violent felonies, stalking, attempted robbery, or abduction.
A 'crime' includes acts that would constitute a crime under Virginia law or at common law, with exceptions for certain motor vehicle injuries unless caused intentionally or by specific violations.
Family includes persons related within the third degree of consanguinity or affinity, those residing in the same household, or a spouse.
They provide clarity and consistency in legal interpretations, ensuring that terms like 'victim' and 'crime' are understood uniformly across cases and statutes.