Guidance that has been recently updated.

1. GENERAL RECEIVER'S SIGNATURE BLOCK (section 23)

   "Seen and Not Objected To"  replaces "Seen and Agreed"

2. MOTIONS DAY - IN-PERSON HEARINGS only effective 10/14/2026. (posted 7/23/2026)
   1. IN-PERSON Motions Day praecipe must be used (revised 7-16-2026)  
   2. Motions Day guidance is posted in Section 37.
3. MOTIONS LASTING MORE THAN 25 MINUTES shall be scheduled for 2:00 p.m. (if less than 3 hours) or on a date-certain.
   1. Guidance posted in Sections 36 and 37.
4. MOTIONS TO COMPEL - section added on 7/22/2026.
5. SHOW CAUSE ORDERS - section added on 7/22/2026.
6. CELL PHONE POLICY (effective July 1, 2026) - Order regarding portable electronic devices, courthouse screening, and prohibited items. Refer to "Cell Phone" section below.

 LOCAL PROCEDURES – CIVIL 

Scroll down for detailed Civil Local Procedures (instructions on Court procedures and policies).  If you have any questions, please contact the Alexandria Circuit Court Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123.  Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.  

1.  CIVIL INFORMATION 
   1.  MOTIONS DAY - IN-PERSON HEARINGS ONLY starting on 10/14/2026.  In-person Motions Day hearings will resume effective October 14, 2026. Refer to Section 37 for guidance.
   2. TRIALS AND HEARINGS   (updated 7/22/2026).  Trials and hearings are held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment. 
   3.  "TECHNOLOGY IN THE COURTROOM" section provides guidance on the following.
      1. REMOTE WITNESS TESTIMONY - Counsel is required to file a written motion requesting court approval for the remote witness testimony. Counsel is also required to do all of the following (detailed instructions are included in the "Technology in the Courtroom" section of this website).
         1. Contact Courts IT to reserve the Court's tech cart and take mandatory training on the tech cart prior to the trial date;
         2. Issue the Microsoft Teams meeting link at least 2 business days prior to the trial date; 
         3. Bring your laptop to court on the day of trial and use the previously-issued meeting link for the remote witness testimony at the appropriate time.
      2. ELECTRONIC (i.e., DIGITAL) EVIDENCE PRESENTATION - Counsel is required to do all of the following (detailed instructions are included in the "Technology in the Courtroom" section of this website).
         1. Reserve a Tech Courtroom by contacting Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123;
         2. Take mandatory training on the Court's technologically-equipped courtroom prior to the trial date
         3. Present the electronic evidence on the day of trial without assistance; and

         4. Provide the electronic evidence on a flash drive that the Court will retain if the evidence is admitted into evidence.

             

2.  CRIMINAL INFORMATION 

a.   Local Procedures - Criminal   Click on this link for the Criminal Local Procedures (instructions on Court procedures, policies and deadlines).

b.   SETTING CRIMINAL TRIAL DATES AND HEARINGS. Available criminal slots are posted to the Criminal Local Procedure website weekly. 

c.   TRIALS AND HEARINGS are held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.

updated  7/22/2026

1.   ALEXANDRIA CIRCUIT COURT - JUDGES' CHAMBERS  703.746.4123

• 520 King Street, 4th floor    Alexandria, VA  22314  
• 703.746.4123  Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Telephone calls only.  No walk-ins by attorneys or pro se litigants.
• Drop box is next to the door (exit the elevator; u-turn towards the left; use the clear plastic drop box)

2.   CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES

Circuit Court Judges are elected by a joint vote of both houses of the General Assembly and are commissioned by the Governor for a term of eight years. The Governor can make interim appointments when the General Assembly is in recess. Circuit Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Virginia, and the court has authority to try a full range of both civil and criminal cases.

         * Judge Kathleen M. Uston  (Chief Judge)

         * Judge Rebecca J. Wade

         * Judge Heidi E. Meinzer

3.   COURT ADMINISTRATORS  703.746.4123

Court administrators 

• Provide general assistance regarding court policies and procedures. 
• Schedule trial dates. 
• Reserve technology courtrooms for trials and hearings (if needed to present electronic evidence that is stored on a digital flash drive that will be retained by the Court if the evidence if admitted during the trial or hearing)
• Contacted at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

4.   JUDICIAL STAFF ATTORNEYS  703.746.4123

Judicial Staff Attorneys

• Licensed attorneys that work with the Circuit Court Judges 
• Provide assistance to counsel and the pro se litigants regarding procedural questions involving Motions Day, etc. 
• Contacted at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
• Should not be confused with clerks in the Clerk of Circuit Court's office.   

5.  COURTS IT   703.746.4310

Courts IT team members

• Reserve tech cart for remote witness testimony  (after a judge has granted permission for remote witness testimony; refer to "Remote Witness Testimony" section of this website).  Technology courtrooms are reserved by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123.
• Provide training on the Court's technology equipment, including 
  • Tech cart (for remote witness testimony) and
  • Tech courtrooms (for electronic evidence presentation)
  • Refer to "Technology in the Courtroom" section regarding walk-in training on Thursdays (no reservation required) or what to bring to the training and the court trial/hearing.   

updated  10/7/2026

1.  CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT - ADA COORDINATOR

For ADA assistance with filing documents, etc. with the Clerk of Circuit Court 

   1.  Complete the appropriate form   ADA Accommodation Request Form or Accommodations Request Form for People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Deafblind

        A.  Filing deadline is 5 business days prior to the court hearing. 

        B.  The form shall include the date on which you need assistance, the specific accommodation being requested, and the name, telephone number and email address for the person requesting reasonable ADA accommodations. 

    2.  File the form with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

    3.   Call the Clerk’s office (703.746.4044) to speak with the ADA Coordinator to ask if additional information is needed.

2.   CIRCUIT COURT OF ALEXANDRIA - ADA COORDINATOR

For ADA assistance for trials, hearings held on the 4th floor of the courthouse, including selection of trial dates, Term Day, Status Conference/Docket Call hearings.  

   1.  Complete the appropriate form ADA Accommodation Request Form or Accommodations Request Form for People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Deafblind

        A.  Filing deadline is 5 business days prior to the court hearing. 

       B.  The form shall include the date on which you need assistance, the specific accommodation being requested, and the name, telephone number and email address for the person requesting reasonable ADA accommodations. 

    2.  File the form with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

    3.  Deliver a MANDATORY COPY of the ADA Request Form to the 4th Floor drop box. 

    3.   Call  Judges’ Chambers  (703.746.4123) to speak with the ADA Coordinator to ask if additional information is needed.

3.   SUPREME COURT OF VIRGINIA 

 Supreme Court of Virginia - Website regarding ADA Accommodations.

updated 7/22/2026

A.   GENERAL DISTRICT COURT (GDC) APPEALS  TO CIRCUIT COURT

1. Counsel or pro se litigant appeals the case in the GDC Clerk's office. 
   1. The GDC Clerk assigns the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing by using specific cut-off dates. 
   2. The date and time of the Selection of Trial Date hearing will appear on the Notice of the Appeal.
2. After 10 days (if the appeal is not withdrawn by the appellant), 
   1. The case is sent from GDC to the Clerk of Circuit Court. 
   2. The Clerk of Circuit Court shall issue a Notice of Appeal to be served on the appellee to make that person aware of the Selection of Trial Date hearing date and time.
3. The Selection of Trial Date hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby area, typically on the 2nd Monday of the month. If the 2nd Monday of the month is a holiday, the hearing will be held on the next business day.
4. There are 2 ways to set the Circuit Court trial date. All counsel and/or pro se litigants shall 
   1. Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule a Circuit Court trial date (this may be done on any day prior to the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.); or 
   2. Appear at the Selection of Trial Date hearing to schedule a Circuit Court trial date (the hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby).
5. After selecting a Circuit Court trial date, counsel shall sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  
   1. If the trial date is scheduled by telephone, counsel shall file a fully endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within 14 days with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website. 
   2. A copy of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order does not have to be delivered to the 4th floor drop box.   

6. If the Appellant fails to appear at the selection of trial date hearing.  

       (option 1) The appellee may set the trial date; or

         (option 2)  The Court may continue the selection of trial date hearing to a future date.  A notice of docket call/status conference will be mailed to all counsel and pro se litigants approximately 3 weeks prior to the next hearing.  Refer to “Status Conference” section of this website for additional information.

          (option 3)  The Court may dismiss the appeal and remand the case to GDC for enforcement of all orders after the appellant fails to appear for a total of 3 hearings to select a trial date (either by selection of trial trial or status conference/docket call hearings). The dismissal order will be mailed to all parties.

B-1.    JUVENILE AND DOMESTIC RELATIONS (JDR) APPEALS TO CIRCUIT COURT

        except for termination or permanency plan cases

1.  Counsel or pro se litigant appeals the case in the JDR Clerk's office. 
   1. The JDR Clerk assigns the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing by using specific cut-off dates. 
   2. The date and time of the Selection of Trial Date hearing will appear on the Notice of the Appeal.
2. After 10 days (if the appeal is not withdrawn by the appellant), 
   1. The case is sent from JDR to the Clerk of Circuit Court. 
   2. The Clerk of Circuit Court shall issue a Notice of Appeal to be served on the appellee to make that person aware of the Selection of Trial Date hearing date and time.
3. The Selection of Trial Date hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby area, typically on the 2nd Monday of the month. If the 2nd Monday of the month is a holiday, the hearing will be held on the next business day.
4. There are 2 ways to set the Circuit Court trial date. All counsel and/or pro se litigants shall 
   1. Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule a Circuit Court trial date (this may be done on any day prior to the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.); or 
   2. Appear at the Selection of Trial Date hearing to schedule a Circuit Court trial date (the hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby).
5.  After selecting a Circuit Court trial date, counsel shall sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  
   1. If the trial date is scheduled by telephone, counsel shall file a fully endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within 14 days with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website. 
   2. A copy of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order does not have to be delivered to the 4th floor drop box.           
6. If the appellant fails to appear at the selection of trial date hearing

           (option 1) The appellee may set the trial date; or

         (option 2)  The Court may continue the selection of trial date hearing to a future date.  A notice of docket call/status conference will be mailed to all counsel and pro se litigants approximately 3 weeks prior to the next hearing.  Refer to “Status Conference” section of this website for additional information.

          (option 3)  The Court may dismiss the appeal and remand the case to GDC for enforcement of all orders after the appellant fails to appear for a total of 3 hearings to select a trial date (either by selection of trial trial or status conference/docket call hearings). The dismissal order will be mailed to all parties.

  B-2.  JUVENILE AND DOMESTIC RELATIONS (JDR) APPEALS TO CIRCUIT COURT

         Termination or Permanency Plan cases

1.  Counsel or pro se litigant appeals the case in the JDR Clerk's office. 
   1. The JDR Clerk assigns the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing by using specific cut-off dates. 
   2. The date and time of the Selection of Trial Date hearing will appear on the Notice of the Appeal.       
2.   The case is  sent from JDR to the Clerk of Circuit Court
   1. Deadline: Within 3 days of the filing of the notice of appeal. 
   2. The Clerk of Circuit Court shall issue a Notice of Appeal to be served on the appellee to make that person aware of the Selection of Trial Date hearing date and time.
3. The Selection of Trial Date hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby area, typically on the assigned date and time.
4. There are 2 ways to set the Circuit Court trial date. All counsel and/or pro se litigants shall 
   1. Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule a Circuit Court trial date (this may be done on any day prior to the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.); or 
   2. Appear at the Selection of Trial Date hearing to schedule a Circuit Court trial date (the hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby).
5.  After selecting a Circuit Court trial date, counsel shall sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  
   1. If the trial date is scheduled by telephone, counsel shall file a fully endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within 14 days with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website. 
   2. A copy of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order does not have to be delivered to the 4th floor drop box.      
6. If the appellant fails to appear at the selection of trial date hearing

           (option 1) The appellee may set the trial date; or

         (option 2)  The Court may continue the selection of trial date hearing to a future date.  A notice of docket call/status conference will be mailed to all counsel and pro se litigants approximately 3 weeks prior to the next hearing.  Refer to “Status Conference” section of this website for additional information.

          (option 3)  The Court may dismiss the appeal and remand the case to GDC for enforcement of all orders after the appellant fails to appear for a total of 3 hearings to select a trial date (either by selection of trial trial or status conference/docket call hearings). The dismissal order will be mailed to all parties.

 updated  7/27/2026

1. TO APPEAL A CIRCUIT COURT OF ALEXANDRIA CASE - Contact the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the appeal deadline for instructions on how to appeal a case to the Virginia Court of Appeals or to the Supreme Court of Virginia.   Refer to Clerk's Office website.   The Clerk of Circuit Court is located at 520 King Street, Room 307  Alexandria, VA  22314.  Telephone number: 703.746.4044.
2. TRIAL TRANSCRIPTS
   1. AGREED TRANSCRIPTS. If the trial transcript is agreed-to by counsel for all parties, counsel shall file all of the following documents with the Clerk’s Office:  (1) motion; (2) fully-endorsed order; and (3) transcript.
   2. OBJECTIONS TO TRANSCRIPTS.  Any party may object to a transcript or written statement of facts on the ground that it is erroneous or incomplete by following the guidelines as articulated in the Virginia Rules of Supreme Court.  See generally, Va. R. Sup. Ct. 5A:8. 
3. STATEMENT OF FACTS.  In lieu of a trial transcript, a statement of facts may be filed with the Clerk's office. The Statement of Facts will become part of the court record. All procedures as articulated in the Virginia Rules of Supreme Court must be followed.

NO LEGAL ADVICE FROM COURT PERSONNEL. Court personnel cannot provide legal advice.  Consult legal counsel if you need detailed instructions or additional guidance.

ATTORNEY REFERRAL. Contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral Service at 703.548.1106 if you need help finding an attorney.

added 3/9/2026

1. VIRGINIA-ISSUED BIRTH CERTIFICATE. Any person wishing to amend a birth certificate issued by the Commonwealth of Virginia shall file a petition with the Virginia Department of Health Office of Vital Records. A petition to amend may only be filed in Circuit Court if the petition is denied by the Virginia Department of Health Office of Vital Records.
2. OUT-OF-STATE BIRTH CERTIFICATES.   Corrections to out-of-state birth certificates cannot be filed in Virginia. Please seek guidance from the state in which the birth certificate was issued. 

updated 1/23/2026

Call Judges' Chambers if you have questions.  703.746.4123.

1. 2026 COMPREHENSIVE CALENDAR  (updated on 6/10/2026 to include additional Supreme Court of Virginia holidays). The comprehensive calendar includes all holidays, early court closures, civil cases and court events, and criminal cases and court events.
2. 2026 MONTHLY CALENDAR  (updated on 6/10/2026 to include additional Supreme Court of Virginia holidays). The monthly calendar includes all holidays, early court closures, civil/criminal cases and court events in a monthly format. 
3. 2027 COMPREHENSIVE CALENDAR  (issued on 9/2/2026 to include additional Supreme Court of Virginia holidays). The comprehensive calendar includes all holidays, early court closures, civil cases and court events, and criminal cases and court events.
4. 2027 MONTHLY CALENDAR  (issued on 9/2/2026 to include additional Supreme Court of Virginia holidays). The monthly calendar includes all holidays, early court closures, civil/criminal cases and court events in a monthly format. 

Cell Phones, Smart Watches and Other Electronic Devices

 Order regarding portable electronic devices, courthouse screenings, and prohibited items  dated 6/22/2026 - effective July 1, 2026.

updated 7/27/2026

Whenever a church or other religious affiliation seeks confirmation of certain individuals to serve as trustees, the Petitioner shall follow these instructions. Counsel will be contacted by a Judicial Law Clerk (Staff attorney) if additional information is needed.

1. PREPARE ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS to include
   1. PETITION with a description of the facts and circumstances surrounding the relief sought. The petition shall be signed by counsel of record (where applicable), or by an individual with authority.
   2. BY-LAWS.  Relevant provisions of the by-laws or governing document pertaining to elections shall be attached to the petition.
   3. NOTARIZED AFFIDAVIT  (signed in front of a notary public) stating (a)  the affiant is an officer of the church; (b) an election was held pursuant to the applicable by-laws; (c) a quorum was present; (d) a vote was taken; (e) the result of the vote; and, (f) that the following individuals were duly elected or appointed to serve as trustees [insert the names of  the individuals].
   4. ORDER containing the names of the appointed trustees, signed by counsel of record (where applicable), or by an individual with authority. 
2. FILE ALL required documents
   1. Originals are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.
   2. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box (so the Judges will know the documents were filed).  
3. COURT REVIEW OF DOCUMENTS. A judicial law clerk (judges' staff attorney) will review the documents. If there are any questions or documents are missing, counsel will be contacted by a Judicial Law Clerk (staff attorney). 
4. CHECK STATUS OF ENTERED ORDER. Call the Clerk's office at 703.746.4044 to ask if the order has been entered.
5. COPIES OF ENTERED ORDER are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

updated 10/6/2026

A.   ORDER APPOINTING A COMMISSIONER IN CHANCERY

1.    PREPARE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS to include

     (1)  Motion appointing Commissioner in Chancery (see below regarding Commissioner in Chancery's name)

     (2)  Order appointing a Commissioner in Chancery  (see below regarding Commissioner in Chancery's name)

  2.   FILE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

  3.   (optional) Deliver a copy to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers that the documents were filed. 

  4.   DOCUMENT REVIEW BY COURT. A staff attorney in Judges' Chambers will review the documents and contact counsel if any documents are missing or incorrect. 

   5.   CASE STATUS. Counsel may call the Clerk of Circuit Court at 703.746.4044 to ask if the order has been entered.

   6.  COPIES OF ENTERED ORDER.  Obtain copies of the order from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

B.   COMMISSIONERS IN CHANCERY

    1.  The name of the Commissioner in Chancery shall be included on the proposed order of appointment (do not leave the name blank). Counsel may select from the list below or select another attorney (follow instructions below). Prior to filing the proposed order, contact the proposed Commissioner in Chancery to confirm the appointment will be accepted.

    2.  The following is a list of attorneys with previous experience of serving as a Commissioner in Chancery in Alexandria Circuit Court. This list shall not be construed as a list of recommended Commissioners in Chancery. 

     3.   Attorneys who wish to be added to this list shall send a letter to the Circuit Court Chief Judge detailing their experience. Mail or deliver the letter to Chief Judge, 520 King Street, 4th floor    Alexandria, VA 22305.

    4.   To request appointment of an attorney who is not on this list, counsel shall submit the attorney’s biographical information and experience to the Court, together with the proposed order of appointment.  

(list updated on 8/31/2026)

      Leonard P. BUSCEMI        5531 Lee Highway #204   Arlington, VA 22207   703.528.8477

      Joshua BUSHMAN             675 South Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314      703.845.9070

      Foster FRIEDMAN              500 Montgomery Street #575  Alexandria, VA 22314          703.836.9030 

      Colleen HADDOW              132  King Street #200      Alexandria, VA  22314          571.551.2678     

      Andrea MOSELEY            1100 H Street, NW #1220   Washington, DC  20005      202.549.0425          

      James D TURNER              124 South Royal Street   Alexandria, VA 22314       703.836.3400 

Added on 7/22/2026.

Refer to  MOTION TO COMPEL section.

See top of this page.

Updated  10/7/2026

CONTINUANCE REQUESTS IN CIVIL CASES

Continuance requests are granted by permission of a Judge upon good cause only.  Continuance requests are not granted because discovery has not been completed. The party asking for the continuance shall include a statement on the motion to continue advising if the opposing party objects or agrees to the continuance request. 

The moving party is the person asking for the continuance.

A.   WRITTEN MOTION TO CONTINUE 

        (1)   The moving party prepares a written motion to continue that includes the following information

                 a.  Why the continuance is being requested and

                 b.  If the opposing counsel AGREES or OBJECTS to the continuance request. Counsel shall contact opposing counsel prior to the preparing the written motion. Refer to the information below for agreed and contested motions to continue trial dates.

B.  AGREED MOTION TO CONTINUE TRIAL DATE

An agreed motion to continue is if opposing counsel does not object to the continuance request.

        (1)   File the AGREED motion to continue with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

        (2)    (mandatory) Provide a copy of the motion to continue to opposing counsel.

        (3)   (mandatory)  Deliver a copy of the motion to continue to the 4th floor drop box to make Judges' Chambers aware of the continuance request.

After the motion is filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court, AND a mandatory copy is delivered to the 4th floor drop box AND a copy is provided to opposing counsel

       (4)  Reschedule trial date by calling Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123. Both counsel shall be together on the same telephone conference with their calendars available. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

       (5)  File an amended Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order  with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

                 a.  Filing deadline: Five (5) business days.

                 b.   A copy does not have to be delivered to the 4th floor drop box. 

C.    CONTESTED MOTION TO CONTINUE TRIAL DATE

A contested motion to continue is if opposing counsel objects to the continuance request. A hearing with a judge is required for all contested motions to continue. The hearing may be on a Motions Day docket or by a telephone conference call with a judge that is scheduled in advance by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123.

        (1)  The moving party files the CONTESTED motion to continue with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

        (2)   (mandatory) Provide a copy of the motion to continue to opposing counsel.

        (3)   (mandatory) Deliver a copy of the motion to continue to the 4th floor drop box to make Judges' Chambers aware of the continuance request.

         (4)  The objecting party files a written objection that clearly states the reason for objecting to the continuance request. 

                a.  File the  WRITTEN OBJECTION with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.

                b.  (mandatory) Provide a copy of the written objection to opposing counsel.

                c.  (mandatory) Deliver a copy of the written objection to the 4th floor drop box.

         (5)  The moving party follows the instructions below to schedule on a motions day hearing or a scheduled conference call.

D.   MOTIONS DAY HEARING with a judge for a contested motion to continue

       (1)  The moving party follows the instructions in the "Motions Day" sections of this website.

       (2)  At the Motions Day hearing, counsel states their reasons for the continuance and objection to the request. 

       (3)  If the continuance is granted, counsel shall follow the judge's instructions (typically contact Judges' Chambers for a new trial date).

E.    SCHEDULED CONFERENCE CALL WITH  A JUDGE FOR A CONTESTED MOTION TO CONTINUE

The judicial conference call shall be scheduled in advance at a date and time certain. There is not a "duty judge" to handle unscheduled conference calls.    

   (1)  SCHEDULE CONFERENCE CALL.

           A.  The moving party call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 to ask a court administrator for available dates and times for a judicial conference call.  Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

          B.  The moving party calls the opposing counsel to ask if they are available on the date and time obtained from the court administrator.

          C.  The moving party RESERVES the conference call by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

   (2)   JUDICIAL CONFERENCE CALL.

          A.  On the date and time certain previously reserved, both counsel call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone conference call to speak with a judge regarding the contested continuance request. 

         B.  If the call is dropped, please call 703.746.4123 again together on the same telephone conference call.

         C.  If the continuance is granted,

                (1)  Counsel will be transferred to a court administrator to reschedule the trial date. 

                (2)  Counsel shall complete, sign and file an amended Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order  with the Clerk of Circuit Court within five (5) business days after selecting a new trial date.

Updated  10/7/2026

1.   JUDGES' CHAMBERS' DROP BOX is on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street  Alexandria, VA  22314. After exiting the elevator, make a u-turn towards the left.

2.  MOTIONS DAY (optional)  Copies of all Motions Day documents filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court shall also be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that a motion has been filed and praeciped for a specific motions day. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

3.  ORDERS (optional)  Copies of orders filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

         (a)  The proposed order may also be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that an order was filed or that a case should be on the docket.

         (b)  The copy will not be entered.  Generally Judges' Chambers must wait for the proposed order to be processed by the Clerk of Circuit Court and sent to Judges' Chambers. 

THE COURT OF APPEALS OF VIRGINIA provides for intermediate appellate review of all decisions of the Circuit Courts in traffic infractions, in criminal cases (except where a sentence of death has been imposed), and in decisions of the Circuit Court involving domestic relations matters and appeals from administrative agencies. The Court of Appeals also hears appeals from the Industrial Commission. For more information, visit the Court of Appeals of Virginia website. 

Updated 10/7/2026

Pro Se Uncontested Divorce Packet 

Alexandria Circuit Court has prepared an uncontested divorce packet that is available 

                    * Free download   Uncontested Divorce Packet for Pro se Litigants   

                    * Hard copy (for a fee) from the Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Open 9:00am to 2:00pm)

1. Revised on 6/9/2026.
2. Intended to help a pro se litigant file for an uncontested divorce in Alexandria Circuit Court.
3. Overview included of the uncontested divorce process in Alexandria Circuit Court.
4. SAMPLE FORMS are included in this packet (sample documents that may or may not apply to your particular circumstances). 
5. STATUTORY REQUIREMENTS. You are responsible for ensuring that the documents you file meet all the statutory requirements applicable to your individual circumstances. There is no substitute for the personalized legal advice that you may receive from a competent attorney.
6. FINAL DECREE sample documents. The packet includes information for the Final Decree to be prepared by the plaintiff and signed by a judge to grant the divorce.

7. TESTIMONY shall be provided by the plaintiff either by 

             a.  Attending an in-person ore tenus hearing and providing sworn testimony to a judge; or 

             b.  Filing an affidavit that includes sworn, written testimony.

8. BE ADVISED.  If you choose to proceed without the help of a competent attorney, you might unknowingly give up certain important rights. Many of these rights cannot be claimed later if not addressed as part of your final decree of divorce. Therefore, you are strongly encouraged to consult with an attorney about your individual situation so that you fully understand both your rights and future obligations before any final decree is entered by the Court.

9.  NO LEGAL ADVICE.  By law, Court personnel are prohibited from providing legal advice or guidance in completing documents. If you need additional assistance, you must seek legal counsel. 

10.  ATTORNEY REFERRAL.  Contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral at 703.548.4077 if you need help finding an attorney.

Updated 1/21/2026

ANNULMENTS are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. contested docket.

1. REQUIRED DOCUMENTS include the Complaint, service documents, Final Decree, Name change order (if applicable), privacy addendum, VS-4 form, etc
2. File all original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
3. SERVE THE COMPLAINT  on the Defendant.  Proper service must be effected on the Defendant and the required length of time for a responsive pleading must have passed before calling to schedule a trial date.
4. SCHEDULE A TRIAL DATE.  Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available trial dates on the 10:00 a.m. contested docket.
5. ATTEND IN-PERSON TRIAL in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.
6. Copies of the final decree may be obtained after the trial date from the Clerk of Circuit Court’s office. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

Updated  10/7/2026

CONTESTED DIVORCE CASES 

Contested divorce cases are those cases with unresolved issues such as property [equitable distribution] or child custody, visitation, and child support issues. Contested divorce cases are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. contested docket. The trial is held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment. Copies of the final decree may be obtained from the Clerk of Circuit Court’s office. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

General Instructions

1. File all original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2. (mandatory) Serve the complaint on the Defendant.  Proper service must be effected on the Defendant and the required length of time for a responsive pleading must have passed before calling to schedule a trial date.

3. Schedule a trial date.  Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available trial dates on the 10:00 a.m. contested docket. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

    

STATEMENTS AND COMPUTATIONS. 

Each party shall file his or her own statement if the parties cannot agree on one statement.

Filing deadline: 5 business days prior to the contested trial date.

AGREED FACTOR STATEMENT   

Va. Code Sections 20-107.1, 107.3(E), and 108.1(B).

COMPUTATIONS OF GUIDELINE SUPPORT STATEMENT

Va. Code Sections  20‑107.2 and 108.2.

1/21/2026

Refer to pro se divorce packet.

All original documents must be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

Updated 10/7/2026

Emergency hearings are scheduled only for true emergencies with the express permission of a judge. 

The moving party is the person asking for the emergency hearing.

INSTRUCTIONS

  1.  FILE MOTION FOR EMERGENCY HEARING.

   (1)  The moving party prepares a written motion for emergency hearing that clearly states the facts of the case and why an emergency hearing is necessary. Include your contact information (telephone number and email address) on the emergency motion.

     (2)   File the original motion with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

2. COPIES

    (1)  (mandatory) DELIVER a copy of the emergency motion to the 4th floor drop box for Judges' Chambers.

     (2)  (mandatory)  PROVIDE A COPY of the emergency motion to opposing counsel. 

3. CONTACT JUDGES' CHAMBERS

    (1)  Call a a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to confirm receipt of the 4th floor drop box copy. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

4. COURT REVIEWS EMERGENCY MOTION AND DETERMINES IF EMERGENCY HEARING IS REQUIRED

(1)   A staff attorney in Judges' Chambers will review the emergency motion with a judge. 

(2)  The judge determines if an emergency hearing is necessary.

(3)   A staff attorney contacts counsel or pro se litigan) with the judge’s decision (if the emergency motion may be docketed or not).

5. IF EMERGENCY HEARING IS APPROVED

(1-A)  (preferred method).  Counsel on both sides calls Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule the emergency hearing. The moving party shall make reasonable efforts to get opposing counsel on the same conference call. 

(1-B)  (alternative method) If the moving party cannot get opposing counsel on the same conference call, the moving party shall call Judges’ Chambers and explain the efforts taken to get opposing counsel on the same line. Depending on the circumstances, the moving party may be able to schedule the hearing without opposing counsel being on the same telephone conference call.

(2)  (mandatory)  File NOTICE OF HEARING.

     The moving party prepares a NOTICE OF HEARING. 

    The notice of hearing shall state the hearing will be held on [date] and [time] in-person, in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria Virginia 22314. Refer to the 4th floor monitor for the courtroom assignment. 

    Certificate of Service (method of notifying the opposing counsel of the hearing) must be included on the Notice of Hearing.

     File the original Notice of Hearing with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(3)  Copies

       (mandatory)  A copy of the Notice of Hearing is provided to opposing counsel. The service method must be included on the Notice of Hearing.

       (optional)  A copy of the Notice of Hearing shall  also be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that a notice of hearing has been filed. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

  6. IF EMERGENCY HEARING IS DENIED

 If a judge determines that an emergency hearing is not necessary, counsel may choose to schedule the motion for a scheduled Motions Day by filing all required documents prior to the deadline. Refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website.

Updated 10/7/2026

 1.  August 2027 to August 2029 Clerkship (2 Years)

          Closed; positions have been filled.

2.   August 2028 to August 2030 Clerkship (2 years)

        Positions available:  1 staff attorney position to start in August 2028 and continue through August 2030.

        Position description: Alexandria Circuit Court has three (3) judicial law clerk/staff attorney positions who work with all three Circuit Court judges (law clerks are not assigned to a specific judge).   One or two law clerks will be hired each spring for the position to start the following year.

        Term of Clerkship is 2 years. This is a 2 year commitment, starting in August after you have sat for the Virginia Bar examination.

         To apply: In the spring of your 2L year, email the following to the Court Administrator (no telephone calls please).

                   Cover letter

                   Resume

                    Law school transcript (can be updated in the spring with revised transcript and class rankings)

                    List of references with telephone numbers

                    (optional) Writing sample (less than 10 pages)

          Candidate interviews. Candidates to be interviewed will be contacted by email and the interviews will be conducted in the spring/summer before your 3rd year of law school.  

3.  EXTERNSHIPS

              None. Alexandria Circuit Court does not have an externship program.

4.  SUMMER INTERNSHIPS.

              None. Alexandria Circuit Court does not have a summer internship program.

Updated  10/7/2026

 1.  EXHIBIT LABELING

Plaintiff’s exhibits shall be labeled P-1, P-2, etc.     

 Defendant's exhibits shall be labeled D-1, D-2, etc. 

 2.  IN-PERSON TRIALS AND HEARINGS 

in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse

     BRING ALL EXHBITS to court on the day of trial or hearing.

 The exhibit shall be a hard copy or on a flash drive if being presented electronically (and a technology courtroom has been reserved by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm).

   All evidence that is admitted during the trial will be kept by the Court. Any electronic evidence shall be printed as a hard copy or transferred to a flash drive (otherwise the Court will keep your computer or cell phone). 

3.  MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS 

BRING ALL EXHBITS to court on the day of the in-person Motions Day hearing. As of October 14, 2026, all motions day hearings shall be held in-person. 

 All evidence that is admitted during the trial will be kept by the Court. Any electronic evidence shall be printed as a hard copy or transferred to a flash drive (otherwise the Court will keep your computer or cell phone). 

4.  TRIALS AND HEARINGS heard remotely (or if one party appearing remotely)

The party appearing remotely shall deliver the exhibits to the 4th floor drop box at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.  The filing deadline is 3 business days prior to the trial or hearing date at 4:00 p.m.

The party appearing in the courtroom shall bring the exhibits to the courtroom on the day of trial.

updated 7/8/2026

EXPUNGEMENT PACKET

The expungement packet includes general instructions and sample documents. It is intended to be used by pro se litigants (those persons without legal counsel) to obtain an expungement in Alexandria Circuit Court. The packet is available 

    *   Free download from the Alexandria Law Library's website Alexandria Law Library  > scroll to "Information Packets" in the lower left side of the webpage

    *   Hard copy (for a fee) from the Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Hours:  9:00am to 2:00pm)

EXPUNGEMENT INSTRUCTIONS

1. Prepare the required documents (refer to Expungement Packet).
2. Obtain proper signatures.  The final order of expungement must be signed by both the petitioner and the Commonwealth's Attorney. 
   1. Call the Commonwealth's Attorney's office for instructions (520 King Street  Room 301; 703.746.4100).

3. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    

NO LEGAL ADVICE FROM COURT PERSONNEL. 

Court personnel are prohibited by law from providing any legal advice or instructions on how to complete a form.  Find an attorney if you need legal assistance.  Call Alexandria Lawyer Referral at 703.548.4077 if you need help finding an attorney.

Updated   10/7/2026

Emailed documents are not accepted.

   1.  FILE ALL ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS 

       with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

     2.   (optional) MOTIONS DAY. 

Copies of all Motions Day documents filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court shall also be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that a motion has been filed and praeciped for a specific motions day. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. Emailed documents are not accepted.

    3.   (optional)  ORDERS 

The proposed order may also be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that an order was filed or that a case should be on the docket. The copy will not be entered.  Generally Judges' Chambers must wait for the proposed order to be processed by the Clerk of Circuit Court and sent to Judges' Chambers. 

     4.   ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Refer to individual sections of this website for Exhibits; Orders; Signatures.

Updated   10/7/2026

  1. DIVORCE CASES 

 ACCEPTANCE/WAIVER. Acceptance/Waiver (Form CC-1406) 

Defendant's acceptance of service and waiver of notice of future hearings. The Defendant must sign the document in front of a notary public. If the Defendant signs the acceptance of service and waiver of notice of future hearings, the Defendant must also sign the Final Decree (signatures on a Final Decree should not be notarized). 

2. MOTIONS DAY CASES - updated 7/22/2026

Effective October 14, 2026 and thereafter - All motions day hearings will be held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse.

The Court strongly encourages use of the Court-provided praecipe which includes a mandatory Rule 4:15(b) certification.

 Motions Day Praecipe for In-Person Hearings (revised 7-16-2026)

3. TERM DAY   

 Term Day Praecipe  Refer to "Term Day" section of this website for instructions.

4. UNIFORM PRETRIAL SCHEDULING ORDER  

 Uniform Pretrial Scheduling ORDER   

A Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order is required for all civil cases and shall be in the form prescribed by Rule 1:18 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia.   The PTSO must include the trial date(s), indicate jury or non-jury, the pretrial conference date (if any) and signatures of all counsel or pro se litigants.       

Deadline:  14 days after scheduling the trial date with Judges' Chambers. If counsel does not file a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within a reasonable amount of time, one will be prepared and mailed to counsel.

File the PTSO with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

updated  10/7/2026

Refer to  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt for Clerk of Circuit Court garnishment forms and filing instructions.

Garnishment hearings may be scheduled on a Motions Day.  Beginning October 14, 2026 and thereafter, all Motions Day hearings will be held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse.

instructions

1. CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT FORMS and STAMPED ENVELOPE. File the required Clerk of Circuit Court's forms with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Include a stamped envelope (proper postage) addressed to the Judgment Debtor(s).
2. MOTION. File the motion with the Clerk of Circuit Court if not already filed.
3. (mandatory) PRAECIPE. File the Motions Day Praecipe for In-Person Hearings (revised 7-16-2026) with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website for specific Motions Day dates and filing deadlines for each Motions Day.
4. (mandatory)  PROPOSED GARNISHMENT ORDER shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.
5. ATTEND MOTIONS DAY HEARING. The hearing will be held in-person on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.
6. ORDER ENTERED. The court may enter the garnishment order at the Motions Day hearing if appropriate. The proposed garnishment order shall be filed prior to the deadline (refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website).
7. COPY OF ORDER.  A copy of entered order is available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

updated  10/7/2026

1.   GENERAL INFORMATION.

     A.  INQUIRIES. All General Receiver inquiries should be directed to the dedicated email address: General.Receiver@alexandriava.gov. 

     B.  GENERAL RECEIVER.  J. Greg Parks, the Clerk of Alexandria Circuit Court, is the General Receiver of the Alexandria Circuit Court as of 7/1/2025.

     C.   ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS are on the Clerk of Circuit Court'sw website.  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

2.   GENERAL RECEIVER'S AFFIDAVIT

Mandatory.

    A. Counsel shall prepare an Affidavit to include the beneficiary's name, date of birth and social security number, as well as the proposed dates of final and periodic disbursements.

    B.  Counsel shall provide a copy of the affidavit to the General Receiver prior to the entry of the order so that the General Receiver has the necessary information to comply with the affidavit requirement of Va. Code § 8.01-582. 

    C.  Such affidavits shall be maintained under seal by the Clerk of Circuit Court unless otherwise ordered by the Court, and the information therein shall be used solely for the purposes of financial management and reporting.

3.   GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS

Mandatory language.

    A.  Any orders providing for funds to be deposited with the General Receiver shall comply with Va. Code § 8.01-582 and “shall include information necessary to make prudent investment and disbursement decisions”.

    B.  Any orders regarding General Receiver deposits should NOT specify that funds will be deposited with the Clerk of Court or reference Va. Code § 8.01-600. Orders must state that the funds are to be deposited with the General Receiver and reference Va. Code § 8.01-582.

    C.  Orders should not include language that conflicts with the duties and role of the General Receiver.  The General Receiver does not hold funds in “trust." Also, the General Receiver does not hold the funds for the “use benefit, education, maintenance and support of the minor.”   The funds will be on deposit with the General Receiver until the minor turns 18 or the court orders otherwise. 

4.  DATES OF PERIODIC AND FINAL DISBURSEMENTS.

Mandatory language.

The order shall include the proposed dates of periodic and final disbursements, except when it is unreasonable.

5.   UNCLAIMED FUNDS

Mandatory language

    A.   The proposed order shall include language providing that if the funds held by the General Receiver are not claimed within one year of the dispersal date that the General Receiver will disburse those funds to the Virginia State Treasurer as provided by the Virginia Unclaimed Property Act. 

    B.  Appropriate language would be "ORDERED that if no claim is asserted to the funds held by the General Receiver pursuant to this Order within one (1) year after the dispersal date, the General Receiver is authorized to disburse the funds to the State Treasurer, as Administrator of the Virginia Unclaimed Property Act, pursuant to Virginia Code §55.1-2519, without further petition or order of this Court."

6.   GENERAL RECEIVER'S SIGNATURE

Mandatory signature.

The General Receiver's signature shall be on all Orders, in addition to counsel's signature.  Counsel shall include the following signature block on the proposed order and present the order to the Clerk of Circuit Court's office and request Mr. Parks' signature on the order.  Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

          Seen and Not Objected to:

        ___________________________

            J. Greg Parks         
             General Receiver, Alexandria Circuit Court
             General.Receiver@alexandriava.gov
             520 King Street, Suite 307
              Alexandria, VA 22314
             (703) 746-4044, VSB #91786

updated  10/7/2026

Contested appointment of guardian or conservator

Instructions 

The in-person hearing shall be scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on a non-Motions Day. 

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS are prepared and include
   1. Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator
   2. Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem;

   3. Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  

      (1)  (mandatory language) COURT'S EMAIL ADDRESS probate.intake@alexandriava.gov. All orders appointing a guardian, conservator, or both shall include the current mailing address, email address, and physical address of the court issuing the order and to which such informal written communication shall be directed. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt

      (2) (mandatory name of GAL) The name of the proposed Guardian ad Litem shall be included on the order of appointment. Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment prior to filing the proposed order of appointment with the Clerk of Circuit Court. The Guardian ad Litem shall be from the  Supreme Court of Virginia's website  or www.vacourts.gov  Scroll to > Programs > Guardians ad Litem > Programs > Guardians ad Litem for Incapacitated Persons (refer to “Guardians ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website).

      (3) (mandatory Signatures)  The order of appointment must include signatures of counsel and the GAL.

2. FILE DOCUMENTS 

   File the original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

3. CONFIRM ENTRY OF APPOINTMENT OF GAL ORDER

   Confirm the order has been entered by calling the Clerk of Circuit Court at 703.746.4044. Telephone hours are 8:00am to 4:00pm.

4. SCHEDULE THE CONTESTED HEARING

   Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

   The contested hearing will be scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on a non-Motions Day.

5. REMAINING MANDATORY DOCUMENTS shall be filed to include
   1. NOTICE OF HEARING. Filing deadline is 7 business days prior to the hearing date.
   2. FINAL ORDER. Filing deadline is 7 business days prior to the hearing date.
   3. GAL REPORT. Filing deadline is 3 business days prior to the hearing date.
   4. ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. 
   5. COPIES OF DOCUMENTS. Optional copies of the documents may be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the documents have been filed. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

6. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING.  

   The Petitioner, Respondent and GAL appear in‑person at the contested hearing which will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse.  Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.

7. ORDER MAY BE ENTERED.  The Order of Appointment of Guardian ad Litem may be entered at the hearing, based on clear and convincing evidence, in consideration of the factors listed in Virginia Code 64.2‑2007(c).
8. COPY OF ORDER entered at the hearing is available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

Revised 10/7/2026

Uncontested appointment of guardian or conservator

The in-person hearing shall be scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on a Motions Day. 

The Petitioner, Respondent and GAL appear in‑person for the uncontested hearing unless their appearance is waived prior to the hearing date.   Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.

Motions Days are the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. Refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website for specific dates of upcoming Motions Days, and filing deadlines for each Motions Day.

Instructions 

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS shall be prepared and include
   1. Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator
   2. Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem;

   3. Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  

      (1)  (mandatory language) COURT'S EMAIL ADDRESS probate.intake@alexandriava.gov. All orders appointing a guardian, conservator, or both shall include the current mailing address, email address, and physical address of the court issuing the order and to which such informal written communication shall be directed. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt

      (2) (mandatory name of GAL) The name of the proposed Guardian ad Litem shall be included on the order of appointment. Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment. The Guardian ad Litem shall be from the  Supreme Court of Virginia's website  or www.vacourts.gov  Scroll to > Programs > Guardians ad Litem > Programs > Guardians ad Litem for Incapacitated Persons (refer to “Guardians ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website).

      (3) (mandatory Signatures)  The order of appointment must include signatures of counsel and the GAL.

2. FILE DOCUMENTS. File the original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
3. SCHEDULE MOTIONS DAY HEARING by filing an appropriate Motions Day Praecipe for In-Person Hearings (revised 7-16-2026) with the Clerk of Circuit Court

4. COPIES OF PETITION, MOTION, ORDER AND MOTIONS DAY PRAECIPE

   (mandatory)  Provide a copy of all documents to all necessary parties.

   (optional)  Deliver a copy of all documents to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that that matter has been praeciped for a specific motions day. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

5. ATTEND MOTIONS DAY HEARING. The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the Courthouse.
   1. CASE IS CALLED BY THE COURT in the physical courtroom.
   2. ORAL ARGUMENT / OBJECTIONS TO ENTRY OF ORDER. The order will not be entered if the Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the uncontested in-person hearing and objects to the entry of the order. If this occurs, a contested hearing on a 10:00 a.m. docket will have to be scheduled.
   3. ORDER ENTERED. The Order of Appointment of Guardian ad Litem may be entered at the hearing, based on clear and convincing evidence, in consideration of the factors listed in Virginia Code 64.2‑2007(c).

6. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    

updated  10/7/2026

Guardian ad Litem - Appointment Order

for Infant Settlements and Wrongful Death Hearings

NOTE.  Guardian ad Litem's signature is required on the order of appointment

Instructions

1.  GUARDIAN AD LITEM'S NAME 

     Shall be on the proposed order of appointment. 

      Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment before filing the proposed order with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

     The Guardian ad Litem shall be from the  Supreme Court of Virginia's website  at www.vacourts.gov  Scroll to > Programs > Guardians ad Litem > Programs > Guardians ad Litem for Incapacitated Persons.

2.  (mandatory) SIGNATURES. 

The order of appointment shall include signatures counsel and the Guardian ad Litem.

3.  FILE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS

All original documents, including proposed orders, shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

4.  (optional) COPY TO JUDGES' CHAMBERS

Deliver an OPTIONAL copy to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the document has been filed. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY is as follows.

ALEXANDRIA COURTS will be closed when the Alexandria City Government (not the Alexandria City Public Schools) is closed or when the City Government opens at 10:00 a.m. or later due to inclement weather or other emergency. Exceptions to this procedure may be made by the judge on a case by case basis. 

ALEXANDRIA COURTS includes Circuit Court, Office of the Clerk of Circuit Court, General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, and Court Service Unit.

Inclement Weather Schedule Order entered 1/23/2026

revised 7/23/2026

All CONTESTED infant settlement hearings shall be scheduled for an in-person 10:00 a.m. hearing in a courtroom, and not on a Motions Day docket. 

1.  PREPARE INITIATING DOCUMENTS to include
   1.  PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF INFANT SETTLEMENT
   2.  ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM. Refer to the “Guardian ad Litem” section of this website for guidance, including Lists of Approved Guardians ad Litem for Infant Settlements from the Alexandria Circuit Court and the Supreme Court of Virginia, as well as instructions to appoint a GAL whose name is not on either list.
2. FILE THE PETITION AND ORDER APPOINTING GAL with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
3. (optional) COPY TO JUDGES' CHAMBERS' 4TH FLOOR DROP BOX.  Deliver a copy of the Petition and Order appointing GAL to the Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the documents have been filed (here is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 
4. (wait a few days) CONFIRM ORDER APPOINTING GAL HAS BEEN ENTERED by calling the Clerk of Circuit Court at 703.746.4044; telephones are answered from 8:00am to 4:00pm. The hearing cannot be scheduled until AFTER this order has been entered.
5. (after GAL order has been entered) SCHEDULE HEARING. Counsel shall call a court administrator together on the same telephone conference call to schedule the contested hearing.  Call 703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
6. REMAINING DOCUMENTS are prepared and filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.
   1. NOTICE OF HEARING. The filing deadline is 7 days prior to the hearing date.
   2. FINAL ORDER. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional instructions. The filing deadline is 7 days prior to the hearing date.
   3. GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT. The filing deadline is 3 business days prior to the hearing date.
7. (optional) COPY OF NOTICE, FINAL ORDER AND GAL REPORT TO JUDGES' CHAMBERS' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the documents have ben filed (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 
8. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON CONTESTED HEARING. The parties-in-interest attend the hearing in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street  Alexandria, VA  22314 (refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment).
9. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

updated  10/8/2026

For uncontested infant settlements, the final order may be entered without a hearing or at an in-person Motions Day hearing. Refer to following section for Motions Day instructions.

ENTRY OF ORDER WITHOUT A HEARING

Instructions

1. PREPARE INITIATING DOCUMENTS to include
   1. PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF INFANT SETTLEMENT
   2. ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM. Refer to the “Guardian ad Litem” section of this website for guidance, including Lists of Approved Guardians ad Litem for Infant Settlements from the Alexandria Circuit Court and the Supreme Court of Virginia, as well as instructions to appoint a GAL whose name is not on either list.
2. (mandatory) PREPARE  REMAINING  DOCUMENTS to include
   1. NOTICE OF HEARING. 
   2. FINAL ORDER. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional instructions. 
   3. GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT. 
   4. WAIVER OF ATTENDANCE AT HEARING. A signed statement from all parties consenting to waive their appearance at the court hearing.
3. FILE DOCUMENTS.  Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
4. (optional)  DELIVER DOCUMENT COPIES to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the documents have been filed (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 
5. DOCUMENT REVIEW by Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys typically takes 2 to 3 weeks after the Clerk's office sends the documents to Judges' Chambers. Counsel will be contacted by a judicial law clerk if the order cannot be entered due to errors or omissions. 
6. CASE STATUS.  Counsel may call the Clerk's office at 703.746.4044 to check the status of the order. Telephones are answered from 8:00am to 4:00pm. Call Judges' Chambers regarding outstanding orders only if necessary. 703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. 

7. COPIES OF FINAL ORDER are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    

    

updated  10/7/2026

For uncontested infant settlements, the final order may be entered without a hearing or at an in-person Motions Day hearing. These instructions are for entry of final order at a Motions Day hearing, which is held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Refer to previous section for entry of order without a hearing.

ENTRY OF ORDER AT MOTIONS DAY HEARING.

All Motions Day hearings are held in-person effective October 14, 2026 and thereafter.

Motions Day hearings are at 10:00 a.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The schedule may change due to holidays or judicial conference (refer to the "Motions Day" sections of this website for specific dates of upcoming Motions Days, and filing deadlines for each Motions Day. Also refer to the "Calendars" section of this website for the Court's posted calendar.

Instructions

Follow the instructions on the "Motions Day" sections of this website.

Updated  10/7/2026

INTERPRETER SERVICES are available to anyone who needs interpreter services. 

   *  Counsel or pro se litigants shall request interpreter services if needed.

   *  REQUEST EARLY.  If an interpreter is not timely requested, there is a possibility of the hearing or trial not going forward.

    *  A party may bring their own QUALIFIED interpreter in CIVIL CASES (not criminal cases) if that interpreter meets the Court's requirements (a court-provided interpreter may not always be available due to the statewide shortage of interpreters). 

A.    Civil Case instructions

Complete the Foreign Language Interpreter Request form https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/f0a715a70ca74961b5a1562445568373

  1.   All of the following information must be provided

          (1)  Case name

          (2)   Case number

           (3)  Language needed

          (4)  Country (optional)

          (5)  Hearing date

          (6)  Hearing time

          (7)  Estimated length of hearing

          (8)  Who is requesting the interpreter (plaintiff, defendant or witness)

         (9)  Attorney's name (if any)

          (10)  Contact information  (name, telephone number and email address) for the person submitting the form

2.    Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to confirm the request was received. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

3.   CANCELLATIONS.  Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to cancel the request if the case is settled or is removed from the docket. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

B.   Criminal Case INSTRUCTIONS

Complete the Foreign Language Interpreter Request form https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/f0a715a70ca74961b5a1562445568373

  1.    All of the following information must be provided

          (1)  Case name

          (2)   Case number

           (3)  Language needed

          (4)  Country (optional)

          (5)  Hearing date

          (6)  Hearing time

          (7)  Estimated length of hearing

          (8)  Who is requesting the interpreter (plaintiff, defendant or witness)

         (9)  Attorney's name (if any)

          (10)  Contact information  (name, telephone number and email address) for the person submitting the form

          (11)  Code section 

2.    Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to confirm the request was received. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

3.   CANCELLATIONS.  Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to cancel the request if the case is settled or is removed from the docket. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

C.  COURT OF APPEALS CASE INSTRUCTIONS

1. Complete the Foreign Language Interpreter Request form https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/f0a715a70ca74961b5a1562445568373
2. Follow "Civil Case Instructions" above.
3. Include "Court of Appeals" on the request
4. CANCELLATIONS.  Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to cancel the request if the case is settled or is removed from the docket. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

updated 2/11/2026

JURY DUTY SCAM ALERT.  

Do not become a scam victim. NEVER give out your personal information by telephone or email.

Alexandria Circuit Court uses the U.S. Mail to notify jurors of their upcoming or missed jury service. The Court does not call Jurors regarding a failure to appear for jury duty.  The Court will never ask for payment for missed jury duty.

If you receive a telephone call from the Court or a Sheriff's Office deputy, the call is probably a scam.  HANG UP IMMEDIATELY. Call the Alexandria Police Department at 703.746.4444 to make a report. 

Updated 7/8/2026

(1)    JURY SUMMONS INFORMATION

         ALEXANDRIA RESIDENTS who received a juror summons

          for Alexandria Circuit Court    520  king street    Alexandria, VA  22314

1.   I'VE RECEIVED A JUROR SUMMONS from Alexandria Circuit Court.  What do I do now?

         A.     Follow the instructions in the pink box on the left side of the summons (below the fold).

         B.  Call 703.838.4237 to acknowledge receipt of the summons.  Leave your name and group number on the recording.  Do not leave any other message on the recording.

        C.   Write the term of service on all of your calendars so you do not inadvertently schedule a dentist appointment for a day during your term of service.

        D.   Starting after 4:00 p.m. on the Friday before your term of service, call 703.838.4110 to determine if you need to report on the following business day.  COME TO COURT ONLY IF YOUR GROUP NUMBER IS CALLED.

2.   703.838.4110  Jury Recording (which groups need to report)  

         A.    Call Friday after 4:00 p.m. for groups who need to report on Monday.

         B.    Call Monday after 4:00 p.m. for groups who need to report on Tuesday.

         C.    Call Tuesday after 4:00 p.m. for groups who need to report on Wednesday.

         D.    Call Wednesday after 4:00 p.m. for groups who need to report on Thursday.

         E.    Call Thursday after 4:00 p.m. for groups who need to report on Friday.

3.   WHAT HAPPENS IF I NEED TO REPORT for Jury duty.

Petit Jurors:  The 703.838.4110 recording instructs my group to report for jury duty on the next business day. 

Grand Jurors:  The Juror Summons states the two dates you must report for jury duty.

      A.   You must report no later than 8:30 a.m. to the Jury Assembly Room on the 4th floor of 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.

            The Jury Assembly Room door is closed at 8:30 a.m.

      B.   Parking locations are indicated with a red "P" on the juror summons.  Do not park on the street as you will not be allowed to "feed the meter".

      C.   Bring your juror summons and your identification with you.

      D.  Jurors are asked to dress in an appropriate manner. Business or business casual is appropriate.

      E.   Failure to obey the juror summonses may be punishable by a fine and/or the Court using the services of the Sheriff to command your appearance. 

===== FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ==========

  1.   WHAT IS TERM OF SERVICE.  Term of Service is the time period for which you are on call for jury duty. The term of service is printed on the jury summonses that you received in the mail.

          A.   Petit jurors are assigned a 1 week term of service.

          B.   Grand jurors are assigned 2 days on which to report.

  2.   REPORTING TIME and LOCATION.   Report no later than 8:30 a.m. to the Jury Assembly Room on the 4th floor of 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 no later than 8:30 a.m.  The Jury Assembly Room door is closed at 8:30 a.m.

  3.   ARE CELL PHONES ALLOWED? Cell phones and other electronic devices must be turned off in the jury assembly room and courtroom.

           Order regarding portable electronic devices, courthouse screenings, and prohibited items  dated 6/22/2026 - effective July 1, 2026.

   4.   QUESTIONS?  Call the jury coordinator (703.746.4119) or a court administrator (703.746.4123).

   5.   JURY SCAMS.  Never pay money or send a gift card to anyone who advises that you missed jury duty.  Neither Alexandria Circuit Court nor the Alexandria Sheriff's Office calls jurors (see above section).

    6.   ADA ACCOMMODATIONS REQUEST. Contact the Jury Coordinator at 703.746.4119.

    7.  JUROR FEES. Pursuant to Virginia Code, "Every person summoned as a juror in a civil or criminal case shall be entitled to fifty dollars for each of attendance upon the court for expenses and travel incident to jury service and other necessary and reasonable costs as the court may direct."

(2)   JURY QUESTIONNAIRES (mailed in August/SEpt.) 

JUROR QUESTIONNAIRES are the first step in qualifying for jury duty in Alexandria Circuit Court.

1. The Supreme Court of Virginia mails the jury questionnaires to prospective jurors for jury duty service during the following calendar year.
2. Jury Commissioners are appointed by the Circuit Court and review the questionnaires to determine a juror's eligibility.
3. If you receive a questionnaire, please respond within 10 days upon receipt. Answer all of the questions as best you can, and return the questionnaire either by US Mail (to 520 King Street, Room 307 Alexandria VA 22314) or hand-delivery to the same address.  You may also complete the questionnaire on-line at  Online Jury Questionnaire.  Note: This website is turned off after 3 months.

(1)  FOR COUNSEL - CALL A COURT ADMINISTRATOR IF TRIAL NOT GOING FORWARD

Counsel are strongly encouraged to notify the Court immediately in the following situations.

1. Civil cases that are nonsuited or settled prior to trial or if counsel agree to proceed without a jury
2. Criminal cases not going forward (Judge's permission required to remove the jury)

Instructions to notify the Court; allow the Court to cancel jurors and avoid sanctions

1. Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 during business hours.
2. Email the court administrator and call the jury coordinator at 703.746.4347 after business hours

(2)  JURY INSTRUCTIONS - PREPARED BY COUNSEL

Jury instructions are prepared by counsel (or pro se litigant).

1. File original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.
2. Exchange with opposing counsel in accordance with the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that was entered in the case.
3. Filing deadline: Refer to Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.

(3)   JUROR WEEKLY LIST OF ALL JURORS SUMMONSED FOR THE WEEK 

        AVAILABLE 5 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO SCHEDULED TRIAL DATE

        from the Clerk of Circuit Court  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

1. Includes juror information for the total jury pool for the specific week. The names are not separated into trials.

2. Do not contact the jury coordinator or Judges’ Chambers for the juror list.

    

(4) JUROR REPORTING LIST (ON THE DAY OF TRIAL).

     DELIVERED to Counsel in the courtroom by the Jury Coordinator on the day of trial (after the computer has randomly sorted the jurors that have appeared for jury duty on that specific day).

1. Available approximately 15 minutes prior to start of trial. 

    

Court personnel are prohibited by law from providing legal advice or offering guidance as to completion of forms, etc. If you need such advice or guidance, you are instructed to contact legal counsel. If you need help finding an attorney, call Alexandria Lawyer Referral at 703.548.4077.

 Updated 7/16/2026

Refer to the Clerk of Circuit Court's website Clerk's Office website

Mediation is recommended by the Court in all disputed custody cases. The Court cannot recommend a specific mediator service.

Added 7/22/2026

MOTION TO COMPEL

All routine discovery disputes including, but not limited to, motions to compel. Counsel shall confer and attempt to settle such disputes. If the dispute cannot be settled without court intervention, all motions to compel must be accompanied by (1) a good faith certification, and (2) a chart of specific deficiencies (note, a chart of deficiencies is not required if the non-moving party has failed to respond to discovery at all). Motions to compel will be removed if the required chart of specific deficiencies is not included. 

Updated 10/7/2026

Motions (Civil Motions) on a Non-Motions Day - Filing deadlines

Instructions

1.  MOTION IS FILED with the Clerk of Circuit Court.  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2.  SCHEDULE THE MOTION for a non-Motions Day.  Counsel shall a court administrator at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call after the motion has been filed. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

3. FILING DEADLINES are the same as Motions Day deadlines. HOLIDAYS.  If the filing deadline falls on a holiday, the filing deadline is advanced by each day the court is closed. For example, if the deadline is June 19 (Juneteenth) when the Court is closed, the new deadline would be the day before, June 18.

   A.  MOTION shall be filed prior to docketing the motion for a non-Motions Day hearing. 

   B.  MEMORANDUM IN SUPPORT OF MOTION. Filing deadline is 14 days prior to the hearing date.

   C.  OPPOSITION or RESPONSE TO THE MOTION. Filing deadline is 7 days prior to the hearing date.

4. ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
5. (mandatory) copy shall be provided to opposing counsel.
6. (optional) copy shall be provided to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.   A copy shall be provided to opposing counsel.  A mandatory copy shall be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the documents have been filed. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

updated  10/8/2026

Motions Day hearings will be held in person beginning October 14, 2026 and thereafter 

 1. QUESTIONS

If you have any questions, please contact the Alexandria Circuit Court Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123.  Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

 2.  When are motions day hearings?

Civil Motions Days are generally held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month at 10:00 a.m.  Exceptions are in May (if the Judicial Conference occurs on the 2nd Wednesday of the month) and holidays. Refer to the "Motions Day" sections of this website for specific dates of upcoming Motions Days, and filing deadlines for each Motions Day. Also refer to the "Calendars" section of this website for the Court's posted calendar.

3.  PAGE LIMITS  

Effective 4/22/2026, for all 10:00 a.m. Motions Day hearings, 

      (1)   All motions, memorandums, responses briefs, and oppositions may not exceed 5-pages in total.  (For example, if the moving party files a motion and separate memorandum, the page limit is 5 pages together for both documents.) 

      (2)   All documents shall be in 12-point font and double-spaced. 

      (3)  (above the page limit)  Any motions, memorandums, responses or oppositions above the page limit total must be heard on a date certain or a 2:00 p.m. motions day docket. After filing the motion, counsel shall call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone conference call to schedule the motion. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

4.   PRAECIPE FOR MOTIONS DAY 

Motions Day Praecipe for In-Person Hearings (revised 7-16-2026).   The Court strongly encourages use of the Court-provided praecipe which includes a mandatory Rule 4:15(b) certification.

5.  ANTICIPATED LENGTH OF TIME NEEDED TO HEAR ARGUMENT

Motions are scheduled based on the anticipated length of time needed to hear argument on all of the motions that were properly and completely filed and noticed prior to the filing deadline, and the page limit for the motions, memoranda, briefs, oppositions, etc. that are filed for the motion.

      (1)   25 minutes or less and compliance with the 5-page limit:  Motion may be docketed for 10:00 a.m. At the Court’s discretion, the matter may be removed from the 10:00 a.m. docket if it appears the matter cannot be heard in 25 minutes or less. 

      (2)   25 minutes or more must be docketed for a date-certain or a 2:00 p.m. Motions Day hearing. Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 after filing the motion. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

      (3)   Cases with motions, memorandums, responses or oppositions above the page limit total shall be docketed for a date certain or a 2:00 p.m. motions day docket. Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 after filing the motion. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

6.  DOCKETING GUIDANCE 

for motions lasting 25 minutes or less and counsel has complied with the 5-page limitation

1. SCHEDULED FOR 10:00 A.M. MOTIONS DAY DOCKET if the motion is anticipated to last 25 minutes or less and counsel has complied with the 5-page limitation. An unlimited number of Motions Day cases will be heard at 10:00 a.m. At the Court’s discretion, the matter may be removed from the 10:00 a.m. docket if it appears the matter cannot be heard in 25 minutes or less. 

2. MOTION (Initiating Motion). The initiating motion is the first motion filed and praeciped for a specific Motions Day prior to the deadline. The motion shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the deadline.

              Filing deadline for the Initial Motion is on the Friday 2.5 weeks prior to the Motions Day). If the filing deadline falls on a holiday, the filing deadline is advanced by each day the court is closed. For example, if the deadline is June 19 (Juneteenth) when the Court is closed, the new deadline would be the day before, June 18.

3. ADDITIONAL MOTIONS (after the initiating motion has been filed) may be added to the previously-scheduled motions day hearing only if the additional motion(s) are timely filed and praeciped on or before the filing deadline and the additional motion(s) can be heard in the same time that was reserved for the initially-docketed motion(s).

              Filing deadline for the Initial Motion is on the Friday 1.5 weeks prior to the Motions Day). If the filing deadline falls on a holiday, the filing deadline is advanced by each day the court is closed. For example, if the deadline is June 19 (Juneteenth) when the Court is closed, the new deadline would be the day before, June 18.

4. PRAECIPE. The In-Person Motions Day praecipe (revised 7-16-2026) shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the deadline. Counsel does not need to call Judges’ Chambers prior to filing the praecipe with the Clerk of Circuit Court.  

    

7. DOCKETING GUIDANCE 

for motions lasting more than 25 minutes or the 5-page limit has been exceeded.

1. For motion(s) anticipated to last 25 minutes or more PER CASE, or if the 5-page limit has been exceeded, the case shall be scheduled for one of the following by calling a court administrator AFTER THE MOTION(S) HAVE BEEN FILED at 703.746.4123 (telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm).

   (1)     2:00 p.m. Motions Day (for up to 3 hours); or

   (2)      A date certain - either on the 9:00 a.m. docket (for up to 1 hour); or 10:00 a.m. docket

2. INSTRUCTIONS

   (1)   File the motion(s) with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

   (2)   (mandatory) Provide a copy to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

   (3)  (optional)  DELIVER A COPY of all Motions Day documents (motion, etc.) to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that a motion has been filed (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 

3. SCHEDULE HEARING.  Counsel shall call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone conference call to schedule a hearing. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

4. FILE PRAECIPE.  

      a.   For 2:00pm Motions Day docket, use the In-Person Motions Day praecipe (revised 7-16-2026) to docket the motion.

      b.   For a 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. date-certain, prepare a praecipe stating the date, time and title of the motion to be heard.

5. FILING DEADLINE FOR PRAECIPE

      a.   For 2:00pm Motions Day docket, filing deadlines are posted to the "Motions Day" sections of this website.

      b.   For a 9:00 a.m. or 10:00 a.m. date-certain, filing deadlines are the same as Motions Day deadlines. For example, motions have to be filed and praeciped at least 2.5 weeks prior to the hearing date. Oppositions/responses are due at least 1 week prior to the hearing date. 

6. ADDITIONAL MOTIONS to be added to a previously scheduled date-certain hearing. Additional motions may be added only if the additional motion(s) are timely filed and praeciped on or before the filing deadline and the additional motion(s) can be heard in the same time that was reserved for the initially docketed motion(s). After filing the additional motion(s), counsel shall call a court administrator (703.746.4123) regarding the additional motion(s), and then file an appropriate praecipe.

    

8.  WHERE TO FILE DOCUMENTS

       (1)     ORIGINALS are filed with the CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

        (2)    (mandatory) COPY to opposing counsel or pro se litigant. The moving party shall provide a copy of all Motions Day documents to the opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

         (3)   (optional) COPY to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. Copies of all Motions Day documents filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court shall also be delivered to the 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that a motion has been filed and praeciped for a specific motions day. There is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system. 

9.   OTHER

      (1)  REMOVAL OR CONTINUANCE OF MOTION PRIOR TO MOTIONS DAY.  If a motion is continued or removed by agreement of counsel, the moving party shall call a Circuit Court staff attorney at 703.746.4123 to verbally remove the motion; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and  from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. The moving party shall also file a praecipe removing the motion from the docket in a timely fashion. Counsel shall file a new praecipe to docket the motion for a new Motions Day date.

      (2)  REMOVAL OR CONTINUANCE OF MOTION IN OPEN COURT DURING MOTIONS DAY. If a motion is continued from one Motions Day to another by agreement of counsel or by the judge in open court, counsel shall shall file a new praecipe to docket the motion for a new Motions Day date.

      (3)   SET DATE MATTERS. If parties cannot agree to the scheduling of a matter (motions day date, trial date, etc.) the matter may be set for a Motions Day for setting of a trial date or motions day date. In such circumstance, no motion is required and the praecipe shall state that the matter is on for “set date”.

      (4)   CIRCUIT COURT OPINIONS  (if applicable) shall be attached to the motion when filed.

     (5)    COMPEL - MOTIONS TO COMPEL. Refer to the Court’s website at www.alexandriava.gov/CircuitCourt > scroll to “Compel - Motions to Compel”.

      (6)   INTERPRETER SERVICES FOR MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS. The person (or their counsel) who requires interpreter services shall complete the Foreign Language Interpreter Request Form as early as possible. If an interpreter is not timely requested, there is a possibility of the hearing not going forward.  The Foreign Language Interpreter Request form and instructions are on the Court’s website at www.alexandriava.gov/CircuitCourt > scroll to Interpreter Services.  Cancellation Reminder. Counsel shall call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 if the interpreter is no longer needed. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.)

      (7)  SHOW CAUSE ORDERS.  Refer to the Court’s website at www.alexandriava.gov/CircuitCourt > scroll to “Show Cause Orders”.

10.  INCLEMENT WEATHER CANCELLATION 

In the event of inclement weather, Motions Day will be cancelled. Counsel shall file a new praecipe to docket the case for a new Motions Day, as the Court will not do so automatically. 

Inclement Weather Schedule Order entered 1/23/2026.  The Court will be closed when the Alexandria City Government (not the Alexandria City Public Schools) is closed or when the City Government opens at 10:00 a.m. or later due to inclement weather. 

updated  10/8/2026

HOLIDAYS. If the filing deadline falls on a holiday (or a date on which the Court is scheduled to be closed), the deadline is pushed back a day. (For example: if the deadline is June 19 (Juneteenth) when the Court is closed, the new deadline would be the day before, June 18).

1.  INITIATING MOTION is the first motion filed and praeciped to be heard on a specific Motions Day date. The motion to be heard must be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to or in conjunction with the praecipe that is used to docket the motion for a specific Motions Day date.  In-Person Motions Day praecipe (revised 7-16-2026)

   (1)  Initiating Motion: Filing deadline is on the Friday 2.5 weeks prior to the Motions Day date.

   (2)  Praecipe for initiating motion (the document that is used to docket a motion for a specific motions day date): Filing deadline is on the Friday 2.5 weeks prior to the Motions Day date.

   (3)  Memorandum in Support of initiating motion:  Filing deadline is on the Wednesday 2 weeks prior to Motions Day.

   (4)  Opposition or Response to the Initiating Motion: Filing deadline is on the Wednesday 1 week prior to Motions Day.

   (5)  Responses to oppositions/responses will not be considered. 

2. ADDITIONAL MOTION(S). All subsequent motions in the same case after the initiating motion has been praeciped for a specific motions day. The moving party shall file the appropriate documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court on or before the filing deadline, provide a copy to opposing counsel, and deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.

   (1)   Additional Motion: Filing deadline is on the Friday 1.5 weeks prior to the Motions Day date.

   (2)  Praecipe for additional motion: Filing deadline is on the Friday 1.5 weeks prior to the Motions Day date.

   (3)  Memorandum in Support of Additional Motion:  The filing deadline is on the Wednesday 1 week prior to Motions Day.

   (4)  Opposition or Response to Additional Motion: The filing deadline is on the Friday 0.5 weeks prior to Motions Day.

   (5)  Responses to oppositions/responses will not be considered.

3.  ORDERS.  Filing deadline is on the Wednesday 1 week prior to Motions Day. 

     (1)  Post-hearing orders shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court promptly and shall reflect the name of the presiding judge. 

     (2)  (competing orders)  Disputes over the language of a proposed decree or order. Counsel shall confer and attempt to reach an agreement on the wording of the decree or order. Failing such agreement, on or before a date to be agreed upon between counsel but no later than fifteen (15) days after the date of the hearing at which the ruling was made, each counsel shall file with the Clerk his respective proposed decree or order and a concise written argument in support of his position. The order or decree should reflect the name of the appropriate judge. Both proposed orders or decrees shall be signed by both counsel of record, preserving objections as necessary and appropriate. The Court will enter the order it deems appropriate.

4.  GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORTS.  Filing deadline is on the Friday 0.5 weeks prior to Motions Day.

updated  10/1/2026

IN-PERSON Motions Day hearings. 

Motions Day hearings will be held in person beginning October 14, 2026, and thereafter.

FILING DEADLINES  for the 10/14/2026 through 12/23/2026 in-person Motions Day hearings (posted 7/23/2026)

• October 14, 2026 - in-person hearings 
• October 28, 2026 - in-person hearings 
• November 4, 2026  - in-person hearings (1st Wednesday of the month due to the 11/11/26 holiday)
• November 25, 2026  - in-person hearings    No 2:00pm docket on 11/25/2026
• December 9, 2026 - in-person hearings 
• December 23, 2026  - in-person hearings    No 2:00pm docket on 12/23/2026 

FILING DEADLINES for the 1/13/2027 through 3/24/27 in-person Motions Day hearings (posted 10/2/2026) 

• January 13, 2027 - in-person hearings
• January 27, 2027 - in-person hearings
• February 10, 2027 - in-person hearings
• February 24, 2027 - in-person hearings
• March 10, 2027 - in-person hearings
• March 24, 2027 - in-person hearings
• April 14, 2027 - in-person hearings
• April 28, 2027 - in-person hearings
• May 5, 2027 - in-person hearings
• May 26, 2027 - in-person hearings

Updated  10/8/2026

COURT PERSONNEL CANNOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE or assistance in completing a document or form. If you need additional assistance, you must seek legal counsel. Contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral at 703.548.4077 if you need help finding an attorney.

Adult Name Change Packet  

1. Residency requirement. The person whose name is being changed must live in the City of Alexandria (not Fairfax County). 

   Fairfax County residents must apply for a name change at Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 (703.691.7320).

2. ADULT Name change packet has been prepared for pro se litigants (those persons without legal representation).
   1. The packet includes general instructions for Alexandria Circuit Court and sample documents (name change petition and name change order; both documents are fill-in-the-blank forms).
   2. Last update:  July 2014
   3. Free download   https://alexlibraryva.org/law-library  Scroll down to “Information Packets” on the lower left side of the webpage.
   4. Hard copy (for a fee)    Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Open 9:00am to 2:00pm)
3. All documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

MINOR NAME CHANGE PACKET

1. Residency requirement. The person whose name is being changed must live in the City of Alexandria (not Fairfax County).  

   Fairfax County residents must apply for a name change at Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 (703.691.7320).

2. Signatures of both parents are required on the
   1. Petition;  and
   2. Order.
3. MINOR CHILD Name change packet has been prepared for pro se litigants (those persons without legal representation).
   1. The packet includes general instructions for Alexandria Circuit Court and sample documents (name change petition and name change order; both documents are fill-in-the-blank forms).
   2. Last update:  November 2018
   3. Free download   https://alexlibraryva.org/law-library  Scroll down to “Information Packets” on the lower left side of the webpage.
   4. Hard copy (for a fee)    Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Open 9:00am to 2:00pm)

4. All documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    

updated 7/22/2026

A.   ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS

are always filed  with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

B.    COPIES OF PROPOSED ORDERS

(optional) Counsel may deliver copies of proposed orders to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that a proposed order has been filed (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 

Instructions

1. AGREED ORDERS OR FINAL DECREES - SIGNATURES REQUIRED.   All agreed orders or Final Decrees require the signature of opposing counsel (or pro se litigant). Refer to "Signatures on Pleadings, Orders, Etc." section for additional guidance.
2. DISPUTES OVER THE LANGUAGE OF A PROPOSED DECREE OR ORDER ("competing orders").  Counsel shall confer and attempt to reach an agreement on the wording of the decree or order. Failing such agreement, on or before a date to be agreed upon between counsel but no later than fifteen (15) days after the date of the hearing at which the ruling was made, each counsel shall file with the Clerk his respective proposed decree or order and a concise written argument in support of his position. The order or decree should reflect the name of the appropriate judge. Both proposed orders or decrees shall be signed by both counsel of record, preserving objections as necessary and appropriate. The Court will enter the order it deems appropriate..
3. GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS. Refer to “General Receiver Deposits” section of this website.
4. JUDGMENT ORDERS. All Judgment Orders shall specifically name the defendant(s) upon which the judgment is granted in the last paragraph of the order.
5. NONSUIT ORDER
   1. If a responsive pleading has been filed.  The nonsuit order shall state this is the first nonsuit and that no counterclaims, crossclaims, or third-party claims by an adverse party have been filed. Opposing counsel's signature shall be included on the proposed order.
   2. If the complaint has not been served or a responsive pleading has not been filed.  The nonsuit order shall state that this is the first nonsuit and that no counterclaims, crossclaims, or third-party claims by an adverse party have been filed, and that a responsive pleading has not been filed.  Plaintiff’s signature is the only signature required on the nonsuit order.

updated 4/4/2025

1. NON-INTEREST BEARING ACCOUNT. All funds paid into the Circuit Court will be deposited in the Clerk of Circuit Court's non-interest bearing account.
2. INTEREST BEARING ACCOUNT. If counsel or parties desire funds to be deposited into an interest‑bearing account, they may do so by court order that directs the funds be paid directly to the General Receiver of the Court (not the Clerk of Circuit Court). The General Receiver shall deposit the funds in an interest bearing account until further order of the court. The General Receiver will not accept any funds until he has received a copy of the court’s order.

updated  10/9/2026

1. PRETRIAL CONFERENCES are mandatory for all divorce Equitable Distribution trials and any civil trial lasting more than two (2) days. All pretrial conferences are initially scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on a date certain approximately 4 to 6 weeks prior to the trial date.  
2. WHO ATTENDS A PRETRIAL CONFERENCE. Only counsel and pro se litigants attend pretrial conferences.  Persons with legal representation do not attend pretrial conferences.

3. DISCUSSION AT PRETRIAL CONFERENCE. At the pretrial conference, counsel shall be prepared to discuss the following with the judge and opposing counsel:  

          What are the outstanding issues? 

          What is the estimated length of trial time needed? 

          Is there a possibility of settlement? 

         Is a technology courtroom needed to present electronic (digital) evidence?  (Counsel may also call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to request a technology courtroom for the trial.)

          Is anyone requesting remote witness testimony?   (Note: Such request must be done in writing at least 15 days in advance of the trial date. Instructions are posted on this website (refer to "Remote Testimony").

4. MOTIONS ARE NOT DISCUSSED AT PRETRIAL CONFERENCE. Motions, including motions to continue, cannot be heard at a pretrial conference and shall be scheduled separately from the pretrial conference.

5. PRETRIAL CONFERENCE - SCHEDULED TIME SLOT.  At the Court's discretion, the pretrial conference may be held by telephone conference call in which case counsel shall be contacted by a court administrator approximately 4 to 6 weeks prior to the pretrial conference date with an assigned time and conference call instructions for the pretrial conference. 

   1. BY CONFERENCE CALL.  The assigned time for the pretrial conference will be between 9:00 a.m. and 9:45 a.m. Telephone conference call instructions for the pretrial conference will be included in the email. On the day of the pretrial conference, all counsel are to call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) together on the same telephone conference call. 
   2. In-PERSON.  At the Court's discretion, the pretrial conference may be held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 9:00 a.m. (refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment). An email with these instructions will be sent by the Court to counsel approximately 4 to 6 weeks prior to the date of the pretrial conference.

    

**NOTICE TO PRO SE LITIGANTS**       7/6/2016

For pro se litigants who schedule trials (either jury or non-jury) or contested or equitable distribution divorces (including matters relating to child/spousal support and visitation/custody), please be advised that 

1. You must know what the law is relating to your issues and you will be expected to adhere to the Rules of Evidence and Rules of Court.
2. If you have a witness or witnesses that you want to have testify on your behalf, unless they are willing to come to court voluntarily, you must serve them with a lawful subpoena. 
3. You must have all the proper pleadings prepared and filed no later than one week prior to the trial date.
4. You must know how to proceed with presenting your case, including testifying, examination of witnesses and introduction of exhibits (documents, photographs or other tangible objects) as the Court will not be able help you with the case at trial.
5. The Court, in its discretion, may dismiss your case if you do not follow the above procedures.

To assist pro se/self-represented litigants, please refer to The Virginia Judicial System Court Self‑Help Website, http://selfhelp.vacourts.gov/.  This website provides neutral legal information as a public service in topical areas commonly sought by self-represented litigants, such as traffic tickets, divorce, and landlord and tenant issues.

You are strongly advised to obtain an attorney to represent you. The Court and its employees cannot give you legal advice on how to proceed; if you need such advice, then you must hire an attorney.

updated   10/8/2026

In civil cases, remote witness testimony requires a Judge's advance approval. If granted, counsel shall reserve the Court's technology cart (by calling Courts IT at 703.746.4310), taking mandatory training on the Court's equipment; issue a Microsoft Teams meeting link at least 2 business days prior to the trial date; and be responsible for using your laptop to start the meeting at the appropriate time on the date of trial.  Refer to "Technology in the Courtroom" section of this website for additional instructions. 

Instructions

(1) MOTION REQUESTING REMOTE WITNESS TESTIMONY

1.  (mandatory) Prepare a motion to request Remote Witness Testimony. The motion shall include 

         a.  The name of the person requesting remote testimony; 

         b.   The reason why the remote testimony is necessary; 

          c.  Opposing counsel’s position on the request (agreement or opposition) if possible; and 

          d.  ACertificate of Service including the date and method by which the Motion was provided to opposing counsel

2. File the original document with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    Filing deadline:  At least 15 days prior to the trial or hearing date.

3. (mandatory)  Provide a copy of the motion to opposing counsel.
4. (optional)  Counsel may deliver a copy of the motion to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the motion has been filed  (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 

(2) ORDER REGARDING REMOTE WITNESS TESTIMONY

1.  (mandatory) Prepare an ORDER REGARDING REMOTE TESTIMONY  (Sample Order of Remote Testimony). The Order Regarding Remote Testimony shall include

             a.   The name of the person who made the motion and who will be testifying remotely; and

             b.   A statement that “[a]ny oath administered to a party or witness testifying by means of audiovisual technology shall be deemed to have been administered within the Commonwealth”; and

            c.  A statement that “the oath having been administered to [name of person]”; and

             d.   A statement that “[name of person], by taking the oath and testifying remotely before this Court, expressly agrees to be subject to the penalties of perjury under Virginia law and subject to court orders by the Virginia judge regarding the testimony, such as contempt of court powers, adjournment or rescheduling of testimony, and other orders relating to the testimony entered as though the witness was physically present in the Virginia courtroom”; and

           e.  A statement  that “[name of person], by taking the oath and testifying remotely before this Court, consents to personal jurisdiction of the Virginia courts for enforcement of the perjury laws and orders relating to the testimony of the witness entered by the judge presiding over the trial.” 

2. File the original document with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

           Filing deadline:  At least 15 days prior to the trial or hearing date.

3. (mandatory)  Provide a copy of the motion to opposing counsel.

4. (optional)  Counsel may deliver a copy of the motion to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the motion has been filed  (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 

    

(3)  WRITTEN OPPOSITIONS (if any; by opposing counsel)

1. Opposing counsel shall file written opposition (if any) within 5 days after service of such motion. 

2. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

           Filing deadline:  Within 5 days after service of such motion. 

3. (mandatory)  Provide a copy of the motion to opposing counsel.
4. (optional)  Counsel may deliver a copy of the motion to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box to alert Judges' Chambers' staff attorneys that the motion has been filed  (there is often a scanning delay before staff attorneys may view scanned documents in the caseload management system). 

 (4)  if permission FOR REMOTE TESTIMONY is granted

1. Counsel shall call the Clerk's office at  703.746.4044 to ask if the order was entered. Telephones are answered from 8:00am to 4:00pm. In the alternative, counsel may call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm; and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

2. Counsel shall refer to the "Technology in the Courtroom" section of this website for additional instructions, including the following.

      A.  (mandatory training) Counsel shall take mandatory training in advance of the trial date to learn how to operate the Court's tech cart equipment.

      B.  (tech cart reservation) Counsel shall call Courts IT at 703.746.4310 to reserve the Court's tech cart for the trial.

      C.   (issue MS Teams meeting link) Counsel (or pro se litigant) shall issue the MS Teams meeting link. The Court does not issue meeting links for remote witness testimony. The meeting link must be received at least 2 business days prior to the trial date. The meeting invitation must include

                  (a) name of case, docket number, and date/time of trial or hearing; 

                  (b) advise recipients to download the MS Teams application to their device prior to the meeting if needed; and 

                   (c) advise recipients that MS Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com.

       D.    The meeting invitation shall be sent to the person testifying remotely, opposing counsel, and the court administrators at CircuitCourtJudges@alexandriava.gov.

3. ON DAY OF TRIAL   (bring laptop to trial).  Counsel shall bring their laptop to court on the trial date. The attorney will connect their laptop to the Court's tech cart, and then use the MS Teams meeting link to start the remote testimony at the appropriate time.

updated 7/23/2026

Settlement conferences are upon request only. All counsel or pro se litigants must agree to schedule a settlement conference. To the extent possible, the Judge presiding over the settlement conference will not hear the case.  

Settlement conferences are scheduled for 9:00 a.m. up to 1 hour.

Instructions

1. Schedule settlement conference by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123. Counsel or pro se litigants shall be on the same telephone conference call to schedule the settlement conference. The settlement conference shall be scheduled far enough out to allow counsel to comply with the deadline for submitting brief factual statements (see below).
   1. File a praecipe with the Clerk of Circuit Court after selecting a settlement conference date.
2. Prepare brief factual statement
   1. Each party prepares a brief factual statement to include the case from their viewpoint and a statement of the amount or conditions of the demands or offers.
   2. Deliver the brief factual statement to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. The delivery deadline is 5 business days prior to the settlement conference. The deadline is moved back one day for each day the court is closed for a holiday between the delivery deadline and the settlement conference date.
3. Attend settlement conference.
   1. The settlement conference is held in-person at 9:00 a.m. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the location.
   2. Attendance by attorneys and pro se litigants only (clients do not attend the settlement conference).

   3. All attorneys should come to the settlement conference with decision-making and settlement authority. The client or authorized representative must be available by phone during the conference.

       

Added on 7/22/2026

SHOW CAUSE ORDERS. 

Refer to Virginia Code § 8.01-274.1. A show cause order must be filed with a returnable date to a specific Motions Day at 10:00 a.m. Once entered, this Order (plus the Motion or verified petition) must be served on the opposing party and proof of service must be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court PRIOR to the Motions Day hearing. 

       NOTE:   A mandatory copy of all Motions Day documents shall be delivered to the 4th floor drop box when the document is filed.

 updated 2/19/2025

SIGNATURES.  All documents filed (including pleadings and orders) must be signed by counsel for the filing party, or personally signed if the party is proceeding pro se.  In accordance with Va. Code 8.01-271.1, “electronic signatures” are permissible.

SIGNATURE BLOCK REQUIREMENTS.  The signature block shall include counsel or pro se party’s contact information, to include name, counsel’s bar number (if applicable), mailing address, telephone number, and email address (if any).

updated 1/23/2026

Special Immigrant Juvenile Status (SIJS) appeals are heard on the UNCONTESTED 9:00 A.M. DOCKET (refer to that section of this website for specific dates and deadlines),

1.  Counsel or pro se litigant appeals the case in the JDR Clerk's office. The JDR Clerk assigns the date of the Selection of Trial Date hearing by using specific cut-off dates. The date and time of the Selection of Trial Date hearing will appear on the Notice of the Appeal.
2. After 10 days (during which time the appellant may withdraw the appeal), the case is sent from JDR to the Clerk of Circuit Court. The Clerk of Circuit Court shall issue a Notice of Appeal to be served on the appellee to make that person aware of the Selection of Trial Date hearing date and time.
3. The Selection of Trial Date hearing is held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby area, typically on the 2nd Monday of the month. If the 2nd Monday of the month is a holiday, the hearing will be held on the next business day.
4. All SIJS appeal trials will be held on the UNCONTESTED 9:00 A.M. Docket.  Those hearing dates and filing deadline dates are posted to this website at "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket". 
   1. Before scheduling the trial date, counsel is advised that proof of service is required by § 16.1-296 and that the trial date should be scheduled far enough in advance to allow return of such service.  
5. There are 2 ways to set the Circuit Court trial date
   1. All counsel and pro se litigants (if any) call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and then 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) together on the same telephone call to schedule a Circuit Court trial date; or
   2. All counsel and pro se litigants appear at the Selection of Trial Date hearing to schedule a Circuit Court trial date.
   3. After selecting a Circuit Court trial date, counsel shall sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  If the trial date is scheduled by telephone, counsel shall file a fully endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within 14 days with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website.  A copy of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order does not have to be delivered to the 4th floor drop box. 
6. SERVICE.
   1. PROOF OF SERVICE is required by § 16.1-296. The proof of service will be reviewed by the Court in advance of the trial date. The trial date will be removed if the proof of service has not been filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court or is not sufficient.
   2. PROOF OF PUBLICATION (if needed).  The original shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and a MANDATORY copy delivered to the 4th floor drop box. The filing deadline is 7 days prior to the trial date. 
   3. If service cannot be completed  or waived by the trial date, the case will be removed from the docket, and counsel will be contacted regarding effectuating service.
7.   APPELLANT'S FAILURE TO APPEAR for the selection of trial date hearing. If the appellant fails to appear at the selection of trial date hearing.
   1.  (option 1)  If the appellee appears, the appellee may set the trial date; or
   2.  (option 2)  The Court may continue the selection of trial date hearing to a future date.  A notice of docket call/status conference will be mailed to all counsel and pro se litigants approximately 3 weeks prior to the next hearing.  Refer to “Status Conference” section of this website for additional information; or 
   3. (option 3)  The Court may dismiss the appeal and remand the case to JDR for enforcement of all orders after the appellant fails to appear for a total of 3 hearings to select a trial date (either by selection of trial trial or status conference/docket call hearings). The dismissal order will be mailed to all parties.
8. SCHEDULE INTERPRETER if necessary for the SIJS hearing. Refer to the "Interpreter Services" section of this website.
9. FILE ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS in the Clerk's office and deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box. The filing deadline is 7 days prior to the trial date. Additional documents include
   1. Proof of Service (see above)
   2. Proof of Publication or signed waiver of service (see above)
   3. Notice of Hearing
   4. Final order
10. ATTEND TRIAL.  The trial will be held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA  22314.  Consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
11. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT HEARING (if any)  are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

STATEMENT OF FACTS

Refer to “Appeals” section.

updated 09/16/2026

1. STATUS CONFERENCE NOTICE  October 13, 2026  status conference (docket call) notice
2. .ALL CIVIL CASES are scheduled for a status conference (docket call) to set a trial date if appropriate. Alexandria Circuit Court’s goal is to have all civil cases resolved within one year of the filing date (the case is ended when the final order is entered by a judge).
3. IF YOU RECEIVE A STATUS CONFERENCE/DOCKET CALL NOTICE 
   1. If you have an attorney, give the notice to your attorney.
   2. DO NOT COME TO COURT. All status conference/docket call hearings are by telephone to a court administrator at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
   3.  CHECK THE STATUS OF THE CASE.  
      1. Has the complaint been served on the Defendant? 
      2. Has the Defendant filed a responsive pleading?
   4. SERVICE OF THE COMPLAINT.  Service of the Complaint on the Defendant(s) shall be effected as soon as possible. The trial date cannot be scheduled until after the Defendant is served with the Complaint and has an opportunity to respond. Contact the Clerk's office to assistance in issuing service.  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
4. CALL A COURT ADMINISTRATOR  to discuss the status of the case.  
   1. 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
   2. You may call at any time after receiving the status conference/docket call notice. CALL EARLY IF POSSIBLE. You do not need to wait until the day of the status conference/docket call.  Keep trying to call if the telephones are busy.
5. SET A TRIAL DATE if appropriate. Alexandria Circuit Court’s goal is to have all civil cases resolved within one year of the filing date. A case is ended when a judge signs the final order. 
   1. All counsel or pro se litigants shall call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule a trial date.
   2. (file Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order).  Counsel and pro se litigants shall file a fully-endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within two (2) weeks after scheduling a trial date. The order shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
      1. If the pretrial scheduling order is not filed in the Clerk's office within 2 weeks after setting a trial date, the Court will prepare and mail the order to all counsel and pro se litigants. 
6. FAILURE TO RESPOND TO STATUS CONFERENCE / DOCKET CALL NOTICE. Failure to respond to the Court's status conference notice by 1:00 p.m. on the date of the status conference (docket call) may result in the case being discontinued.  If a discontinuance order is signed by a judge, the case is removed from the active case docket and the case is ended.

updated  7/22/2026

Structured settlements - Entry of Order may be heard  (Option #1-A) on a REMOTE Motions Day hearing at 10:00 a.m.; (Option #1-B) at an IN-PERSON Motions Day hearing at 10:00 a.m.; or (Option #2) at an in-person hearing on the Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket.

(Option #1-A)   REMOTE Motions Day Hearing at 10:00 a.m.

Remote Motions Day hearings are available until September 23, 2026.

Motions Day hearings are at 10:00 a.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. (The schedule may change in May due to the Judicial Conference or if a holiday falls on the 2nd or 4th Wednesday of the month. Consult the posted calendar for specific Motions Day dates.)

1.   PREPARE THE  INITIATING DOCUMENTS including
   1. Application for approval of structured settlement
   2. Notice of proposed transfer
   3. Final order containing the statutory requirements for structured settlements. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional information. 
2. FILE INITIATING DOCUMENTS prior to the deadline
   1. All original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   2. Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  
   3. Filing deadline: Refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website.
3. SCHEDULE the REMOTE Motions Day prior to the deadline
   1. File a Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026) (with mandatory remote hearing language; space for email addresses of the moving party, the non-moving party and all interested parties; and the Rule 4:15(b) mandatory certification) prior to the deadline. Refer to the “Motions Day” sections of this website for instructions and filing deadlines.
   2. All original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Provide a copy to opposing counsel.
   4. Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  
4. ATTEND THE REMOTE Motions Day hearing. Counsel and the payee must attend the final hearing, unless good cause exists and a fully-endorsed waiver is filed with the Court. The court may enter the final order if appropriate (and if the proposed order was filed and a mandatory copy was delivered to the 4th floor drop box prior to the hearing).  
   1. For remote Motions Day hearings - Use the MS Teams meeting link or telephone call-in number to attend the remote hearing. 
5. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(Option #1-B)   IN-PERSON Motions Day Hearing at 10:00 a.m.

In-Person Motions Day hearings are available beginning October 14, 2026 and thereafter.

Motions Day hearings are at 10:00 a.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. (The schedule may change in May due to the Judicial Conference or if a holiday falls on the 2nd or 4th Wednesday of the month. Consult the posted calendar for specific Motions Day dates.)

1.   PREPARE THE  INITIATING DOCUMENTS including
   1. Application for approval of structured settlement
   2. Notice of proposed transfer
   3. Final order containing the statutory requirements for structured settlements. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional information. 
2. FILE INITIATING DOCUMENTS prior to the deadline
   1. All original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   2. Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  
   3. Filing deadline: Refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website.
3. SCHEDULE the IN-PERSON Motions Day prior to the deadline
   1. File a Motions Day Praecipe for In-Person Hearings (revised 7-16-2026) (with theRule 4:15(b) mandatory certification) prior to the deadline. Refer to the “Motions Day” sections of this website for instructions and filing deadlines.
   2. All original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Provide a copy to opposing counsel.
   4. Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  
4. ATTEND the IN-PERSON Motions Day hearing. Counsel and the payee must attend the final hearing, unless good cause exists and a fully-endorsed waiver is filed with the Court. The court may enter the final order if appropriate (and if the proposed order was filed and a mandatory copy was delivered to the 4th floor drop box prior to the hearing).  
5. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(Option #2)  UNCONTESTED 9:00 A.M. DOCKET FOR IN-PERSON HEARING

The Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket schedule and filing deadline dates are posted to this website at "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. Docket".  Be advised that cases will not be docketed unless counsel calls Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123; telephones are answered 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) to schedule a hearing and the appropriate documents are filed prior to the filing deadline.

1.   PREPARE THE  INITIATING DOCUMENTS including
   1. Application for approval of structured settlement
   2. Notice of proposed transfer
   3. Final order containing the statutory requirements for structured settlements. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional information. 
2. FILE INITIATING DOCUMENTS prior to the deadline
   1. All original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   2. Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  
   3. Filing deadline: Refer to "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website.
3. SCHEDULE UNCONTESTED 9:00 A.M. HEARING
   1. Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123.  Telephones are answered 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
4. File REQUIRED ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS
   1. NOTICE OF HEARING.  Filing deadline: Refer to "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website.
   2.   NOTICE OF PROPOSED TRANSFER. Filing deadline: Refer to "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website.
   3.  FINAL ORDER. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional instructions. Filing deadline: Refer to "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website.
5. FILE GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the hearing date.
6. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING. Counsel, interested parties, and the payee shall must attend the final hearing, unless good cause exists and a fully-endorsed waiver is filed with the Court. The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
7. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

The Supreme Court of Virginia's primary purpose is to review the decisions of lower courts in which appeals have been allowed. The Court, which is located in Richmond, also has the power to issue writs of mandamus, habeas corpus, and prohibition; it has original jurisdiction in cases of judicial censure and removal.  The Court has seven justices who are elected by joint vote of both houses of the General Assembly and are commissioned by the Governor to serve 12-year terms. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is the administrative head of the state judicial system.  For more information, visit the Supreme Court of Virginia web site.

updated 7/28/2026

TECHNOLOGY QUESTIONS       Call Courts IT at 703.746.4310.

EXHIBITS - Digital/electronic and otherwise

Refer to "Exhibits" section of this website. 

TECH CART (for remote witness testimony)

1. Remote witness testimony must be approved by a judge at least 15 days in advance of the trial or hearing. Instructions are on this website at "Remote Testimony".

2. To reserve a tech cart (after permission is granted). Call Courts IT at 703.746.4310.

    

TECHNOLOGY COURTROOM - Electronic (digital) Evidence Presentation system

1. To reserve a technology courtroom, call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 (telephones are answered 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.). There are 3 technology-equipped courtrooms that are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis.
2. Training on the Court's technology courtroom equipment is mandatory (see below).
3. TRAINING must be taken in advance of the trial or hearing date (see below).
4. ON DAY OF TRIAL
   1. The previously-trained person should bring the same equipment (laptop, cables, etc.) that were used at the training session.
   2. The previously-training person will be expected to operate the Court's equipment without assistance. 

   3. All electronic (digital) evidence shall be on a digital media device such as thumb drive or external hard drive, which the Court will retain if the evidence is admitted at trial. The electronic evidence may also be printed out as a hard copy for the Court to retain if admitted.

      Cell phones are not recommended for digital media as the Court will retain the cell phone if the evidence is admitted at trial.

TRAINING on the TECH CART or the TECHNOLOGY COURTROOM

1. MANDATORY TRAINING on the Court’s electronic evidence presentation system and/or tech cart must be taken by the person who will be operating the equipment PRIOR TO THE TRIAL/HEARING DATE. 
2. EVERY THURSDAY from 8:00am to 9:00am in Circuit Courtroom #1 on the 4th floor of the courthouse. No reservations are necessary (report to Courtroom #1 on the 4th floor).
   1. Call Courts IT at 703.746.4310 to request training on a date other than a Thursday. (This may not always be possible depending on trials scheduled to be held in the courtrooms.)
3. BRING TO TRAINING. Your laptop, cables, digital media device, and electronic evidence (the same equipment you will use at trial).  The laptop should have Windows OS or Mac OS and a native HDMI port (or bring a HDMI dongle/converter).  Your laptop, cables and flash drive will be tested to ensure compatibility with the Court's equipment.

updated  7/23/2026

 TERM DAYS are held 6 times year (in January, March, May, July, September and November) for the purpose of setting a trial date after proper service has been effected. Other set-date options include (a) counsel call a court administrator  at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call; or (b) schedule a set-date motion for a Motions Day (refer to “Motions Day” sections for instructions).

Term Days are held at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby typically on the 2nd Monday of the month. If a holiday falls on the 2nd Monday of the month, the Term Day will be held on the following day.

Refer to the "Calendar" section of this website for specific Term Day dates.

To docket a case for a TERM DAY hearing

1. Prepare a  Term Day Praecipe 
2. File the Praecipe 
   1. File the original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Filing deadline is the preceding Wednesday at 4:00 p.m. If Wednesday is a holiday, the filing deadline is Tuesday (1 day prior).
   2. Provide a copy to opposing counsel; and
   3. Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.

ATTEND THE TERM DAY HEARING. 

There are 2 options to select the trial date after the Term Day notice has been provided to opposing counsel.

1. (Option #1)  Prior to the Term Day.  Counsel and pro se litigant call a court administrator  (703.746.4123; telephones are answered 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) together on the same telephone conference call to schedule the trial date; or
2. (Option #2)  Counsel and pro se litigants appear together in the 4th floor lobby to select a trial date. If opposing counsel does not appear at the Term Day hearing, the trial date may still be scheduled.

3. FILE UNIFORM PRETRIAL SCHEDULING ORDER.

   Counsel and pro se litigants shall file a fully-endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within two (2) weeks after scheduling a trial date. The order shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 

   1. If the pretrial scheduling order is not filed in the Clerk's office within 2 weeks after setting a trial date, the Court will prepare and mail the order to all counsel and pro se litigants.  

    

updated 7/22/2026

Counsel may schedule a trial date by 

      (option #1) calling a court administrator (703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) together on the same telephone conference call; or 

        (option #2) scheduling a set-date hearing on a Motions Day (typically the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month except in May [for the judicial conference] or if a holiday falls on the 2nd or 4th Wednesday of the month); or

         (option #3) scheduling a Term Day hearing. 

(option 1)   COUNSEL CALLS A COURT ADMINISTRATOR ON THE SAME TELEPHONE CALL

                      703.746.4123  TELEPHONES ARE ANSWERED 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

This option is available only if all defendants have been served, the proof of service has been filed with the Clerk’s office, and the defendant has filed a responsive pleading.

1. Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone conference call. All counsel and pro se litigants must participate in the telephone conference call.

2. Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

   If counsel does not file a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within a reasonable amount of time, such an order will be prepared by the Court and mailed to counsel.

3. File the original Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 

4. Copies of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that have been entered by a judge are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 

    

(option 2)  COUNSEL SCHEDULES A SET-DATE HEARING ON A MOTIONS DAY 

 This option is available only if all defendants have been served, the proof of service has been filed with the Clerk’s office, and the defendant has filed a responsive pleading.

1. Refer to the "Motions Day" sections of this website for Motions Day dates and deadlines, guidance, and praecipe.  
2. MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS
   1. REMOTE MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS. Motions Day hearings will be held remotely until September 23, 2026 via a Microsoft Teams meeting link and telephone call-in number provided by the Court 2 business days prior to the Motions Day.  Refer to "Motions Day-Remote" section of this website for additional information.
   2. IN-PERSON MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS.  In-person Motions Day hearings will resume effective October 14, 2026. Refer to "Motions Day-Remote" section of this website for additional information.

3.  Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

   If counsel does not file a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within a reasonable amount of time, such an order will be prepared by the Court and mailed to counsel.

4. File the original Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
5. Copies of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that have been entered by a judge are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 

(option 3)  COUNSEL SCHEDULES A TERM DAY HEARING 

All defendant(s) have been served, the proof of service has been filed with the Clerk’s office, and the defendant has filed a responsive pleading.

1. Refer to the "Term Day" section of this website for Term Day dates and deadlines, guidance, and the Term Day Praecipe.

2.  Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

   If counsel does not file a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within a reasonable amount of time, such an order will be prepared by the Court and mailed to counsel.

3. File the original Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
4. Copies of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that have been entered by a judge are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 

updated 7/22/2026

Refer to individual sections of this website for additional guidance. 

Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) if you need additional instruction.

HEARINGS.  Refer to "Trials and Hearings" below.

MOTIONS DAY. Refer to “Motions Day” sections of this website.

1. REMOTE MOTIONS DAY  (updated 7/22/2026)

   Effective until the October 14, 2026, Motions Day. The last virtual Motions Day hearing will be held on September 23, 2026. 

2. IN-PERSON MOTIONS DAY  (updated 7/22/2026)

   Effective October 14, 2026, Motions Day: Motions Day hearings will be held in-person beginning October 14, 2026, and thereafter.

PRETRIAL MOTIONS

1. Exceeding 5 minutes. All pretrial motions exceeding 5 minutes, including motions in limine, shall be duly noticed for and argued on a Civil Motions Day prior to the trial date.   Refer to the "Motions Day” sections on this website for guidance. 
2. Less than 5 minutes to be heard on day of trial. The motion shall be heard for good cause only; and only if the motion was filed no later than two (2) business days prior to the trial date, with a MANDATORY Chambers’ copy delivered to the 4th floor drop box, AND counsel called Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to advise that the motion in limine was been filed and delivered to Judges' Chambers. 

STATUS CONFERENCE/DOCKET CALL.  Will be held by telephone only. Call a court administrator (703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) to discuss the status of the case or to set a trial date. If setting a trial date, all counsel or pro se litigants shall be on the same telephone conference call. Deadline to call a court administrator is 1:00 p.m. on the date of the status conference/docket call.

TRIALS AND HEARINGS

1. Location
   1. In-person trials and hearings are held in a courtroom at 520 King Street, 4th floor, Alexandria, VA 22314. Refer to the docket that is posted on the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
   2. Totally remote trials and hearings are not allowed.
2. Start Times.  
   1. 10:00 a.m. for all contested matters unless otherwise approved by the Court.
   2. Multiple day trials At Judge's discretion, all subsequent days of trial (after Day 1) may start at 9:00 a.m. Counsel and experts shall arrange their schedules accordingly.

WITNESS AND EXPERT AVAILABILITY. 

1. To avoid Court having to recess early or start late, counsel shall make every effort to have their witnesses and experts available and ready to testify. 
2. Requests to stagger witnesses and/or experts shall be made at least two (2) business days prior to the start of the trial and will be granted for good cause. To request staggered witnesses and/or experts, counsel shall deliver a written letter to Judges' Chambers’ 4th floor drop box and include the proposed schedule of witnesses/experts. The Judges will either approve, disapprove or schedule a conference call with counsel to discuss the request.

Updated  5/15/2026

The UNCONTESTED 9:00 a.m. docket is held  on a Friday once or twice a month.

SCHEDULING AND DOCKETING DEADLINE is on the Thursday three (3) weeks prior to the hearing date (unless that date is a holiday, in which case the deadline is moved to the PREVIOUS business day).  See below for specific hearing dates and filing/scheduling deadlines.

               JULY 24, 2026 hearing date.   Filing/scheduling deadline is 7/2/2026.

                 AUGUST 14, 2026 hearing date.    Filing/scheduling deadline is 7/23/2026.

                  AUGUST 28, 2026 hearing date.     Filing/scheduling deadline is 8/6/2026.

                   SEPTEMBER 11, 2026  hearing date.     Filing/scheduling deadline is 8/20/2026.

                   SEPTEMBER 25, 2026  hearing date.    Filing/scheduling deadline is 9/3/2026.

                  OCTOBER 16, 2026   hearing date.     Filing/scheduling deadline is 9/24/2026.

                 OCTOBER 30, 2026  hearing date.     Filing/scheduling deadline is 10/8/2026.

                 NOVEMBER 13, 2026  hearing date.    Filing/scheduling deadline is 10/8/2026.

                 (Court is closed on November 27, 2026.  No hearings.)

                 DECEMBER 11, 2026  hearing date.    Filing/scheduling deadline is 11/19/2026.

                  (Court is closed on December 25, 2026. No hearings.)

TYPES OF CASES that may be scheduled on the Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket

1. APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN (if uncontested).  Refer to “Appointment of Guardians” section of this website for additional guidance.
2. DIVORCES (if uncontested with plaintiff's oral sworn testimony). Refer to “Divorces” section of this website for additional guidance.
3. GARNISHMENTS (if uncontested). Refer to "Garnishment" section of this website.
4.  INFANT SETTLEMENTS (if uncontested).   Refer to “Infant Settlement” section of this website.
5. SIJS - Special Immigrant Juvenile Status appeals. Refer to “Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Appeals” and "Interpreter Services" section of this website. Counsel or the pro se litigant must arrange for an interpreter if necessary (Circuit Court does not arrange for an interpreter).
6. WRONGFUL DEATH HEARINGS. Refer to “Wrongful Death Hearings” section of this website.

SCHEDULING AND DOCKETING INSTRUCTIONS 

All cases except for Garnishments

1. PREPARE ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. Required documents include but are not limited to the following.
   1. NOTICE OF HEARING DATE (complete this document after scheduling the case with a court administrator; see below).
   2. FINAL ORDER
2. SCHEDULE CASE prior to filing/scheduling deadline.Call a court administrator (703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) prior to the deadline.
3. FILE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the filing/scheduling deadline. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
4. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
5. CONFIRM RECEIPT.   Call the Clerk's office 703.746.4044 to confirm the initiating paperwork has been received or the SIJS appeal paperwork has been received.
6.  File the GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT (if necessary).  The filing deadline is 3 business days prior to the hearing date.
   1. File the original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   2. Deliver a copy to the 4th floor drop box.
7. ATTEND THE HEARING.  The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
8. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

SCHEDULING AND DOCKETING INSTRUCTIONS 

Garnishment cases (in-person return hearings)

1. PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. Required documents include but are not limited to the following.
   1. GARNISHMENT REQUEST (complete this document after scheduling the case with a court administrator; see below).
   2. NOTICE OF HEARING DATE (complete this document after scheduling the case with a court administrator; see below).
   3. FINAL ORDER
2. SCHEDULE CASE prior to filing/scheduling deadline.Call a court administrator (703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) prior to the deadline.
3. FILE THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the filing/scheduling deadline. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
4. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
5. CONFIRM RECEIPT.   Call the Clerk's office 703.746.4044 to confirm the initiating paperwork has been received or the SIJS appeal paperwork has been received.
6.  File the GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT (if necessary).  The filing deadline is 3 business days prior to the hearing date.
   1. File the original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   2. Deliver a copy to the 4th floor drop box.
7. ATTEND THE HEARING.  The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
8. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

Updated 7/22/2026

Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order   (updated Nov 2019) 

1. After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. File the original Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 

   A.  Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant. The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any). The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

   B.   If counsel does not file a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within a reasonable amount of time, such an order will be prepared by the Court and mailed to counsel.

2. Copies of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that have been entered by a judge are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.  

    

Updated 7/22/2026

The final order in wrongful death hearings may be entered 

(option #1)  Without a hearing; or

(option #2)  At a Motions Day hearing; or

(option #3)  At an in-person hearing on the Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket.

(OPTION #1)   WRONGFUL DEATH - FINAL ORDER ENTERED WITHOUT A HEARING

1.   Prepare all required documents to include

           A.   PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLMENT

           B.  ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM (refer to “Guardian ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website for additional guidance)

           C.   FINAL ORDER (refer to “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions).

           D.   GAL REPORT

           E.   WAIVER OF ATTENDANCE AT HEARING. A signed statement from all parties consenting to waive their appearance at the court hearing.

2.    File the original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Clerk's Office website. 

3.    Deliver a MANDATORY copy of all documents to the 4th floor drop box.

4.    DOCUMENT REVIEW by the Court

              A.   Typically takes 2 to 3 weeks after the Clerk's office sends the documents to Judges' Chambers. 

               B.  Counsel will be contacted by a judicial law clerk if the order cannot be entered due to errors or omissions.

5.    STATUS CHECK.  Counsel may call to check the status of the order after 2 to 3 weeks. First call the Clerk's office at 703.746.4044. Only call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 if necessary.

6.   COPIES OF FINAL ORDER are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(OPTION #2)  WRONGFUL DEATH - FINAL ORDER ENTERED AT  MOTIONS DAY HEARING 10:00 a.m. 

Motions Day hearings are held  at 10:00 a.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. (The schedule may change in May due to the Judicial Conference or if a holiday falls on the 2nd or 4th Wednesday of the month; consult the posted calendar for specific Motions Day dates.)

Refer to the “Motions Day” sections of this website for instructions and filing deadlines. 

1.   PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
   1. PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLEMENT
   2. ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM  (refer to “Guardian ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website for additional guidance)
   3.  FINAL ORDER  (refer to “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions).
2. DOCKET FOR MOTIONS DAY by preparing a MOTIONS DAY PRAECIPE FOR REMOTE HEARINGS (updated 3-13-2026).  The Court strongly encourages use of the Remote Motions Day praecipe which includes the mandatory remote hearing language and space for the moving party to include the required email addresses of the moving party, the non-moving party and all interested parties. 
3. FILE DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
4. DELIVER a MANDATORY copy of all documents to the 4th floor drop box.
5. File GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT.  Filing deadline is 3 days prior to the Motions Day. 
   1. File the original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
   2. Deliver a MANDATORY copy of all documents to the 4th floor drop box.
6.  ATTEND THE MOTIONS DAY HEARING. The final order may be entered by a judge during the hearing. 
7. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(OPTION #3)   WRONGFUL DEATH HEARING -   UNCONTESTED 9:00 a.m. DOCKET 

Wrongful death settlement orders may also be entered on an uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket, held on a Friday, typically once or twice a month.  Refer to “Uncontested 9:00 a.m. Docket” section of this website for specific hearing dates and deadlines. Call a Judicial Law Clerk (staff attorney) at 703.746.4123 if you do not understand a procedure.

1.   PREPARE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS
   1. PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLEMENT
   2. ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM  (refer to “Guardian ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website for additional guidance)
   3.  FINAL ORDER  (refer to “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions).
2. SCHEDULE HEARING prior to the filing/scheduling deadline.  Call a court administrator schedule the hearing. (703.746.4123; telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.) 
3. FILE DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the filing/scheduling deadline. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
4. Deliver a MANDATORY copy of all documents to the 4th floor drop box.
5. File all remaining documents prior to the deadline (refer to "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket")
   1. NOTICE OF HEARING . The notice of hearing shall state the hearing will be held on [date] and [time] in-person, in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria Virginia 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board/monitor for the courtroom assignment. 
   2.  File the original  with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
6. File GAL REPORT. The filing deadline is 3 days prior to the hearing date.
   1. File the original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
   2. Deliver a MANDATORY copy  to the 4th floor drop box.
7. ATTEND  IN-PERSON HEARING. All interested parties attend the in-person hearing. The hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street  Alexandria VA  22314.  Please check the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.
8. Copies of orders entered at the hearing are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.