CHAPTER 543

An Act to amend the Code of Virginia by adding thereto a section num-
bered 1-18.23:1, so as to define the word “process”; and to amend and
reenact §§ 8-54, 8-55, and 8-56 as amended, of the Code of Virginia,
relating to how notice, summons and sctre facias served in certain

cases.
[H 829]
Approved April 5, 1954
Be it enacted by the General Assembly of Virginia:

1. That the Code of Virginia be amended by adding thereto a section
numbered 1-13.23:1, and that §§ 8-54, 8-55, and 8-56 as amended, of the
Code of Virginia be amended and reenacted as follows:

§ 1-13.23:1. The word “process” shall be construed to include sub-
poenas in chancery, notices to commence actions at law, process in statutory
actions and scire facias.

§ 8-54. Ina suit for divorce the * subpoena in chancery to commence
the suit and notices for the taking of depositions, or for any other purpose,
shall be served only by the sheriff of the county, or the sheriff or sergeant
of the city, or the deputies of either, in which the service is sought to be
had, except that, when, for any reason it is improper for the sheriff or
sergeant, or the deputies of either, to act, the service shall be made as
provided in § 15-512.

§ 8-55. In a suit for divorce against one who has been sentenced
to the penitentiary of this State, the * subpoena in chancery and notice
shall be served on the superintendent of the penitentiary at least ten days
before the return day of the * subpoena in chancery or the time at which
any action is to be taken under the notice, and it shall be the duty of such
superintendent to forthwith deliver such * subpoena in chancery or notice
to the convict. If alimony is sought to be recovered a copy of such *
subpoena in chancery or notice shall also be served on the committee of
the convict. If no alimony be sought, or if there be no committee of such
convict, in either event a guardian ad litem shall be appointed by the
court, judge, or clerk of the court in which the suit is pending, who shall
defend the suit on behalf of such convict.

§ 8-56. Any * process may be served in the same manner and by
the same person as is prescribed for the service of a notice under §§ 8-51,
8-52 and 8-53, except that when such process is against a corporation the
mode of service shall be as prescribed by §§ 8-59 and 8-60.