20-81 - Presumptions as to desertion and abandonment. - Virginia Statutes

§ 20-81. Presumptions as to desertion and abandonment.

Proof of desertion or of neglect of spouse, child or children by any personshall be prima facie evidence that such desertion or neglect is willful; andproof that a person has left his or her spouse, or his or her child orchildren in destitute or necessitous circumstances, or has contributednothing to their support for a period of thirty days prior or subsequenteither or both to his or her departure, shall constitute prima facie evidenceof an intention to abandon such family.

(Code 1919, § 1941; 1918, p. 761; 1922, p. 846; 1974, c. 464.)