The purpose of Virginia Sheriffs' Association is to serve as a professional trade organization representing the Virginia Sheriffs and their Deputies by providing a forum for the exchange of professional ideas and information. VSA is the only voice to the Virginia General Assembly representing the interests of Sheriffs and their Deputies. VSA also promotes any and all efforts to enhance law and order and the suppression of crime.

The purpose of the Virginia Sheriffs' Institute shall be to encourage charitable and educational activities among the Sheriffs and their Deputies within the Commonwealth of Virginia in all phases of law enforcement practices, procedure, and technique; to educate the public in the observance of law and order; and to do any and all things to promote the enforcement of law and order and the suppression of crime.