Following is a broad outline of Virginia ABC's hearings processes. For questions or additional information, contact the Hearings, Appeals and Judicial Services Division at (804) 213-4444.
The mission of the Hearings, Appeals and Judicial Services Division is to provide a fair and unbiased forum to resolve ABC alleged administrative violations.
Generally, these proceedings result from one of three situations:
Other proceedings may be held to address contested applications for an ABC license or permit or to resolve a dispute between a wholesaler and manufacturer under the Beer or Wine Franchise Act.
In disciplinary cases, i.e., alleged licensee violations, the chief hearing officer proposes a consent settlement in writing. The licensee can admit the alleged violation(s) and accept a monetary penalty and/or suspension of the ABC license. By accepting, the licensee waives the right to a formal hearing and to an appeal.
If desired, the licensee may contact the Hearings Division at any time and proceed directly to the negotiation period.
The negotiation period provides the licensee with the opportunity to try to resolve charges through discussions with Virginia ABC Enforcement’s legal liaison.
If the licensee and the liaison do not agree upon a resolution, on the last day of the negotiation period a notice of the informal conference and formal hearing dates will be sent to the licensee.
Hearings are usually held at one of Virginia ABC's regional offices or in meeting rooms or court rooms in that region. These formal hearings are held before a hearing officer.
A continuance is a request by one of the parties to a case to postpone a scheduled hearing to another time. As a rule, continuances are granted only for substantiated, unforeseeable circumstances. Please note: Delays in hiring an attorney are not grounds for a continuance.
Appeal hearings are held at the ABC Central Office in Richmond. Appeal hearings are before a panel of the ABC Board.
(804) 213-4447
Mailing address
P.O. Box 27491
Richmond, VA 23261-7491
Fax: (804) 213-4731
The Hearings Process