overview of the unlawful detainer process, and (iii) the Eviction Diversion Program eligibility and applicability as outlined in Article 7 (§ 55.1-1260 et seq.) of Chapter 12 of Title 55.1.
D. The court shall not enter an order of possession or judgment in favor of the plaintiff unless the plaintiff, plaintiff's attorney, or agent has presented a copy of a proper termination notice issued to the defendant and the court has entered such notice into evidence. No landlord shall file or maintain an action for unlawful detainer against a residential tenant in a court of law for any alleged lease violation until the landlord has provided the tenant with a proper and effective termination notice.
E. Notwithstanding any rule of court or provision of law to the contrary, the plaintiff, plaintiff's attorney, or agent in an unlawful detainer case may submit into evidence a photocopy of a properly executed paper document or paper printout of an electronically stored document including a copy of the original lease or other documents, provided that the plaintiff provides an affidavit or sworn testimony that the copy of such document is a true and accurate copy of the original lease. If the defendant fails to appear in court, the plaintiff, plaintiff's attorney, or agent may introduce into evidence by an affidavit or sworn testimony a statement of the amount of outstanding rent, late charges, attorney fees, costs, and any other charges or damages as contracted for in the rental agreement that are due and owing as of the date of the hearing. The plaintiff, plaintiff's attorney, or agent shall advise the court of any payments made by or on behalf of the defendant that result in a reduction of the amount due and owing to the plaintiff.
F. 1. The plaintiff may include on the summons for