Virginia's Court System

State of the Judiciary Annual Reports 
2009 to Present

Virginia’s court of last resort, the Supreme Court of Virginia reviews decisions of the circuit courts and the Court of Appeals when such appeals have been allowed, decisions from the State Corporation Commission, and certain disciplinary actions of the Virginia State Bar regarding attorneys.

• Supreme Court of Virginia Historical Commission

Virginia’s intermediate appellate court, the Court of Appeals of Virginia, has authority to hear appeals of right in civil and criminal cases, including traffic infraction cases. The Court of Appeals also reviews decisions from administrative agencies and the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission.

Serving the Commonwealth through 31 judicial circuits, the Circuit Court is the general jurisdiction trial court with authority to try all types of civil and criminal cases.

• Individual Circuit Court Homepages

Serving the Commonwealth through 32 judicial districts, the General District Court is a limited jurisdiction trial court that hears civil cases involving amounts in controversy up to $25,000, and conducts trials for traffic infractions and misdemeanor offenses.

• Individual General District Court Homepages

Serving the Commonwealth through 32 judicial districts, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court is a limited jurisdiction trial court that hears cases involving children and families.

• Individual Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Homepages

Serving the Commonwealth through offices in all 32 judicial districts, the Magistrate Services primary functions are to conduct probable cause hearings on complaints of criminal conduct brought by law enforcement or the general public and to determine whether an arrested person is eligible for bail.

A listing of current job openings posted on the Judicial Branch Recruitment Register.

General Contact Information for All Courts 
Provides addresses and phone numbers for all courts and chief magistrates.

Office of the Executive Secretary (OES)
Provides administrative support for the courts and magistrate offices throughout the Commonwealth.

Special Justices
Judicial officers appointed by the chief circuit court judge who are specially authorized by statute to hear certain mental health commitment matters.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
Provides basic information about the requirements of the ADA as they pertain to Virginia’s Judicial System, including how to request an accommodation.