VA HB718

Requires magistrates to issue arrest warrants rather than summonses for Class 1 and Class 2 misdemeanors unless there is reason to believe the accused will appear in court

Mandates that for misdemeanors other than Class 1 or 2, magistrates may only issue a summons upon showing evidence that the accused is "willing and able" to appear in court, replacing the previous "reason to believe" standard

Requires magistrates to document in writing the facts supporting any decision to issue a summons instead of a warrant, with the written justification filed in the court record

Amends § 19.2-73 of the Code of Virginia governing when summonses may be issued in lieu of arrest warrants