Va. Code § 8.01-274: Motion to strike defensive pleading in equity and at law; exceptions abolished

Exceptions to answers for insufficiency are abolished. The test of the sufficiency of any defensive pleading in any suit in equity or action at law shall be made by a motion to strike; if found insufficient, but amendable, the court may allow amendment on terms. If a second pleading is adjudged insufficient, the court may enter such judgment or decree or take such other action that it deems appropriate.Code 1950, § 8-122; 1954, c. 605; 1977, c. 617; 1978, c. 336.