Virginia's Court System
Virginia Courts in Brief
A publication providing general information about Virginia’s Court system
State of the Judiciary Annual Reports
Supreme Court of Virginia
Virginia’s court of last resort, the Supreme Court 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.
Court of Appeals of Virginia
Virginia’s intermediate appellate court, the Court of Appeals reviews decisions of the circuit courts in domestic relations matters, traffic infractions and criminal cases (except death penalty cases), appeals from administrative agencies, and decisions of the Virginia Workers' Compensation Commission.
Circuit Court
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.
General District Court
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.
Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
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.
Magistrate Services
Serving the Commonwealth through offices in all 32 judicial districts, the magistrate’s 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.
Employment Opportunities
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.
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