Northern Virginia Criminal Justice Academy (NVCJA) Practice Exam

Who qualifies as a family and household member under 18.2-57.2?

1. Only the defendant's spouse

2. Any person residing in the house

3. Individuals who share a child with the defendant

4. All of the above

The correct answer is: All of the above

The definition provided under section 18.2-57.2 outlines a comprehensive understanding of who qualifies as a family and household member. This statute is designed to include various individuals connected by familial or household relations, which ensures a broad interpretation for the purposes of legal protection against domestic violence. Individuals directly related to the defendant, such as a spouse, are clearly included in this definition. Furthermore, the law recognizes other arrangements, such as those sharing a child, acknowledging that parental connections establish a familial bond that warrants protection. The statute also includes any person residing in the household, reinforcing the notion that domestic dynamics can often include roommates or others living together in a shared environment, thereby ensuring the safety of all individuals within that living space. Thus, when combining these aspects, it becomes evident that the correct interpretation encompasses all the mentioned scenarios, validating that anyone fitting any of these descriptions qualifies as a family and household member under the statute. This understanding serves to enhance the legal framework aimed at addressing and mitigating domestic violence situations, creating a more inclusive approach to safeguarding all individuals who may be affected.