Va. Code § 20-65: Summons or warrant; investigation and hearing

Upon the filing of such petition the court shall forthwith issue its summons or warrant against the spouse or parent and upon its execution may cause an investigation of the case to be made by a probation officer or other person designated for that purpose who shall report thereon to the court, and thereupon the court shall, upon the return date of the warrant or summons, proceed to determine and hear the case on its merits.1944, p. 211; Michie Suppl. 1946, § 1937; 1974, c. 464; 1975, c. 557.