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Bill

HB 331

Proceedings deferred; payment of costs.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Adele McClure

HB 331 establishes procedures for handling court costs during deferred criminal proceedings in Virginia, affecting defendant financial obligations and case management.

Approved by Governor-Chapter 592 (effective 7/1/2026)
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Bill Summary · HB 331

Legislative bill overview

HB 331 modifies Virginia law regarding deferred proceedings by establishing procedures for how costs are handled when criminal proceedings are postponed or deferred. The bill passed the House with a 65-32 vote and is now under review by the Committee for Courts of Justice.

Why is this important

Deferred proceedings allow defendants to avoid conviction if they meet conditions during a probationary period, potentially affecting thousands of Virginians annually. How costs are allocated during these proceedings impacts both defendants' financial burden and court system administration, making this procedurally significant for criminal justice outcomes.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost burden timing: Disagreement over whether costs should be paid upfront, upon successful completion, or throughout the deferral period
  • Equity concerns: Questions about whether deferred cost structures disadvantage low-income defendants who cannot afford upfront payments
  • Scope ambiguity: Unclear which specific costs are covered (court fees, restitution, supervision costs, etc.) and how they interact with existing fee structures

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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