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DC-420

Motion for Show Cause Summons or Capias

Virginia · Supreme Court of Virginia

This form is a request to the court asking the judge to order a summons or a writ of attachment (capias). It is used when the person filing the form believes the court needs to take action regarding a suspended sentence, failure to obey an order, or failure to pay money owed.

Open the official PDFfrom Supreme Court of Virginia

Where this fits in a case

Start a case

Stage: Start a case

This form is used when a party needs the court to take specific action, such as enforcing a suspended sentence or making sure someone shows up for a hearing, based on Virginia law.

Either party may file.

Common questions

Who files this form?
The form is a motion, meaning either party involved in the case can file it with the court. Great care must be taken to fill out all the sections correctly. Great care must be taken to fill out all the sections correctly.
What does this form ask the court to do?
It asks the court to issue a summons or a writ of attachment (capias) based on specific legal reasons listed on the form. The reasons can involve suspended sentences or failure to follow court orders.

Revision history

No changes recorded since we started tracking this form on October 10, 2026.

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