59.1-433 - Investigations. - Virginia Statutes

§ 59.1-433. Investigations.

A. The Commissioner may, with respect to pay-per-call service advertising orsolicitation:

1. Make necessary public and private investigations within or without thisCommonwealth to determine whether any person has violated the provisions ofthis chapter, or any rule, regulation, or order issued pursuant to thischapter;

2. Require or permit any person to file a statement in writing, under oath orotherwise as the Commissioner determines, as to all facts and circumstancesconcerning the matter under investigation; and

3. Administer oaths or affirmations, and upon such motion or upon request ofany party, may subpoena witnesses, compel their attendance, take evidence,and require the production of any matter that is relevant to theinvestigation, including the existence, description, nature, custody,condition, and location of any books, documents, or other tangible things andthe identity and location of persons having knowledge of relevant facts, orany other matter reasonably calculated to lead to the discovery of materialevidence.

B. Any proceeding or hearing of the Commissioner pursuant to this chapter, inwhich witnesses are subpoenaed and their attendance required for evidence tobe taken, or any matter is to be produced to ascertain material evidence,shall take place within the City of Richmond.

C. If any person fails to obey a subpoena or to answer questions propoundedby the Commissioner and upon reasonable notice to all persons affectedthereby, the Commissioner may apply to the Circuit Court of the City ofRichmond for an order compelling compliance.

(1991, cc. 608, 630.)