Definition of certain terms used in this chapter; process, return, statutory agent
Va. Code Ann. § 8.01-285
in effectAs used in this chapter, unless the context requires a different meaning:
1. The term "process" shall be deemed to include notice;
2. The term "return" shall be deemed to include the term "proof of service";
3. The term "statutory agent" means (i) the Commissioner of the Department of Motor Vehicles and the Secretary of the Commonwealth, and the successors of either, when appointed pursuant to law for the purpose of service of process on the nonresident defined in subdivision 2 of § 8.01-307 or (ii) the Clerk of the State Corporation Commission, when appointed pursuant to law for the purpose of service of process on any individual, corporation, limited partnership, or other entity under § 12.1-19.1 , as the context may require; and
4. The term "person" includes an individual, his executor, administrator, or other personal representative, or a corporation, partnership, association or any other legal or commercial entity, whether or not a citizen or domiciliary of the Commonwealth and whether or not organized under the laws of the Commonwealth.
1977, c. 617; 1991, c. 672; 2005, c. 866 ; 2024, c. 454 .
Source: Open US Law by Vaquill AI (CC BY 4.0)URL: https://law.lis.virginia.gov/vacode/8.01-285/Fetched: 10/17/2026