Judicial Bypass

If a female is under the age of 18 years and finds herself with an unwanted pregnancy, she may decide that she wants an abortion.  In the state of Virginia, one parent must give permission before she may have an abortion procedure performed. This is called parental consent.  If a parent will not consent to an abortion, the minor may petition the court for a judicial bypass. 

To be granted a judicial bypass, the minor must:

• convince a Judge that she is mature enough to make her own decision without involving a parent and/or
• convince a judge that the abortion is in her best interests.

To file a petition with the court, the minor must contact the Bedford Court Service Unit to make an appointment with an intake officer before or after normal court hours to ensure that the judicial bypass process remains completely confidential.  No matter what the judge decides, the process is a confidential one.

Bedford Court Service Unit

123 East Main Street, Suite 102

Bedford, VA 24523

540-586-76??

(Located on the first floor of the Bedford County Courthouse)