Circuit Court Judges

The 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. Alexandria Circuit Court is a court of record, and all documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. 
Page updated on June 9, 2023 at 2:37 PM

ALEXANDRIA CIRCUIT COURT - JUDGES' CHAMBERS

(updated 6/5/2023)

CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES' CHAMBERS 

  • Address    520 King Street, 4th floor    Alexandria, VA 22314   Courthouse hours: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 
  • Telephone:   703.746.4123   Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
  • Hours:  8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.
  • Drop box:  Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box is for courtesy copies only.  **Originals must be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court (Room 307).
  • Circuit Court Administrators    Telephone:  703.746.4123   Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. 
  • Circuit Court Judges for the City of Alexandria are Judge Lisa B. Kemler (Chief Judge), Judge James C. Clark, and Judge Kathleen M. Uston. 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.

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  • Calendar - Refer to "Calendar" section.
  • Cell Phones and electronic devices are prohibited inside the Alexandria Courthouse.  Refer to "Cell Phone Policy" section below.
  • Circuit Court IT  assistance    Telephone:  703.746.4310   Contact the Courthouse IT to reserve the Circuit Court's technology cart and for training questions.  Training is mandatory to use the Electronic Evidence Presentation podium/software and the Court's Technology cart. The training cannot be taken on the same day as the trial/hearing. Refer to "Technology in the Courtroom" section for available equipment, how to make a technology cart reservation, walk-in training hours, etc.
  • Clerk of Circuit Court  520 King Street, Room 307   Alexandria, VA 22314   703-746.4044.  Contact the clerk's office for information regarding fee structures, copies of documents and orders, etc.
  • 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.
  • Circuit Court is a Court of Record. All documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court (703.746.4044; 520 King Street Room 307, Alexandria, VA 22314). 

TRIALS AND HEARINGS - The COVID judicial emergency has ended. Trials and Hearings (except Motions Day hearings) are held in person, in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 if you have any questions.

(1)  In person trials and hearings - Judge, counsel, parties, witnesses, and others report to the assigned courtroom. Refer to the docket that is posted on the bulletin board for courtroom assignment.  

(2)  Hybrid Trials/Hearings and Remote Testimony -  In certain situations, with good cause and upon written motion (and agreement of opposing counsel), a Judge may grant permission.

       A.  Hybrid trial/hearing   * Judge, counsel, parties, witnesses and others are in the courtroom; remote testimony from a person outside the courtroom - The trial will be conducted in the courtroom (refer to the docket that is posted on the bulletin board for courtroom assignment). Prior to the trial, counsel or pro se litigant shall file a written motion requesting permission for remote testimony during a hybrid trial/hearing (noting if opposing counsel objects or agrees to the motion). Counsel must receive judge's permission, reserve the Court's technology cart, take training (prior to the trial date) to use the Court's equipment, bring the same laptop to the training and to the trial, provide an agreed order regarding remote testimony; provide an affidavit regarding remote testimony outside the Commonwealth; issue the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation (at least 2 business days prior to the trial), and start the Microsoft Teams meeting at the appropriate time to allow the remote testimony.  Refer to  "Trials: Hybrid Trials/Hearings" section of this website.

      B.   Remote trial/hearing  * Everyone (including the judge) participates remotely  (no one appears in the courtroom)  - In rare instances, a hearing may be held virtually (no one appears in the courtroom). Prior to the trial, counsel or pro se litigant shall file a written motion requesting permission for a remote trial (noting if opposing counsel objects or agrees to the motion). Counsel must receive judge's permission and issue the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation (at least 2 business days prior to the trial).  Refer to  "Trials: Remote Trials/Hearings" section of this website.

(3)   MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS ARE REMOTE ONLY, unless an exception is permitted by the Court. The  Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings must be used to schedule the case for a remote Motions Day hearing. Please refer to the Motions Day sections below for instructions, meeting links, and Motions Day docket. Refer to  "Motions Day" sections of this website.

(4)  APPEALS: SELECTION OF TRIAL DATE  - Refer to  "Appeals to Circuit Court" section of this website.

        A.   On the 2nd Monday of the month, the selection of trial date hearing will be held in the 4th floor lobby at 9:00 a.m. 

        B.   For dates other than the 2nd Monday of the month, counsel and pro se litigants shall report to Judges' Chambers at 9:00 a.m. on the date indicated on the Notice of Appeal. 

(5)   STATUS CONFERENCES are held by telephone only.  Counsel or pro se litigants shall call 703.746.4123 when they receive the Court's status conference notice. Refer to  "Status Conference" section of this website.

(6)   TERM DAY (on the 2nd Monday of the month) will be held in the 4th floor lobby at 9:00 a.m.  Refer to  "Term Day" section of this website.

 

JURY SERVICE INFORMATION

(1)   For summonsed jurors - If you received a juror summons for Alexandria Circuit Court and need additional information, click on this link   https://www.alexandriava.gov/courts/circuit-court-jury-services

(2)    For attorneys and pro se litigants - Refer to the "Trials: Jury Trials" section for information on

  • Jury instructions - Filed and exchanged in accordance with the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.
  • Jury weekly panel list (available from the Clerk of Court 3 days before the scheduled trial date, includes a list of all jurors who have been summonsed for the specific week)
  • Jury trial list (a list of jurors who have reported to the jury assembly room; the list is received from the jury coordinator in the courtroom on the day of trial approximately 15 minutes prior to trial). 

LOCAL PROCEDURES (Circuit Court procedures and policies) 

 

 

1. AMERICANS WITH DISABILITIES ACT ("ADA") ACCOMMODATIONS

updated  4/24/2023

 

A.    For a court trial or court hearing  The Court recognizes there are persons with special needs who use Circuit Court. Those persons requiring ADA Accommodations for a court trial or a court hearing, shall follow the procedures below.

Procedure

1.      The request must be filed no later than five (5) business days before the scheduled court event for which assistance is required. The Court encourages the request to be filed as soon as possible.

2.        Complete the ADA Accommodation Request form entirely (do not leave any blanks). The form is available on the Supreme Court's website at https://www.vacourts.gov/courts/ada/home.html. The ADA Accommodation Request form shall include (a) the name of the case and docket number, (b) the date of the court event, (c) the specific accommodation that is being sought, and (d) your contact information (name, telephone number, email address).

3.         File the form with the Clerk of Circuit Court (520 King Street, Room 307, Alexandria, VA 22314) and provide a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers (4th floor drop box).

4.         After receiving the request, supporting documentation or records may be requested by the ADA Coordinator.

5.        The ADA Coordinator for Circuit Court Judges’ Chambers is Jennifer Lazo Torres (703.746.4123).

 

B.    For ADA Accommodations necessary to file documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court - Contact the Clerk of Circuit Court's ADA Coordinator at 703.746.4044. 

 

2. APPEALS

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

2-A.  Appeals to the Circuit Court from the Alexandria General District Court or the Alexandria Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court. 

2-B.  Appeals from the Circuit Court to the Virginia Court of Appeals or the Supreme Court of Virginia.

2-A. APPEALS TO CIRCUIT COURT FROM ALEXANDRIA GDC OR JDR 

updated 4/24/2023

 

A.    HOW TO APPEAL A CASE TO CIRCUIT COURT (a brief explanation)

   (1)        A party (or party’s counsel) notes the appeal with the GDC or JDR Clerk, and pays the appeal bond (if any) prior to the deadline. 

   (2)        The GDC or JDR clerk prepares the Notice of Appeal (which is signed by the appellant), and schedules the first return date (also known as Selection of Trial Date). The date and time of the first return is included on the Notice of Appeal.

   (3)        The appellant signs the Notice of Appeal.

   (4)        After the appeal bond has been paid, and the mandatory period of time in which the appeal may be withdrawn has passed, the GDC or JDR clerk sends the appeal paperwork the Clerk of Circuit Court, and a Circuit Court docket number is assigned to the appeal.

   (5)        The Clerk of Circuit Court issues a Notice of Appeal to the appellee, including the date and time for the appellee to appear in Circuit Court to set the trial date.

 

B.    HOW TO SELECT A TRIAL DATE FOR A CASE APPEALED TO CIRCUIT COURT

First return date (as noted on Notice of Appeal): Option 1 (call the court in advance) or Option 2 (appear in-person at the Selection of  Trial Date hearing). 

 

THE FIRST RETURN DATE 

The first return date ("selection of trial date") is included on the Notice of Appeal that the appellant signs when the appeal is noted.

  • The first return date is the date and time at which the parties appear in Circuit Court to select a trial date in Circuit Court.
  • A judge will not be present at the selection of trial date hearing.
  • The trial will not occur at the selection of trial date hearing.

 

OPTION 1 - Call the Court at least one day prior to the First Return Date. 

  • Counsel are encouraged to call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to set the trial date.
  • All parties or counsel must be together on the same telephone call to set a trial date. 
  • After the trial date has been selected, complete and sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.
    • File the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within two (2) weeks with the Clerk of Court (Room 307). 
    • Refer to "Forms" section for Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.

 

OPTION 2 -  Appear in person on the date and time indicated on the "NOTICE OF APPEAL". 

  • This date is called the "First Return Date". 
  • The First Return Date/Selection of Trial Date hearing will be held in the 4th floor lobby at 520 King Street,  Alexandria VA  22314 starting at 9:00 a.m.
  • A  court administrator (not a judge) shall be present at the hearing.
  • Bring your calendar with you to the hearing.
    • Pro se individuals are not allowed to bring electronic equipment into the courthouse. 
  •  Counsel and/or pro se litigants appear in-person and select a trial date.
    • If you are represented by an attorney, counsel attends the hearing on your behalf (you do not need to appear at the selection of trial date hearing).
  • After selecting a trial date, the parties (or counsel) will sign the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order. The court administrator will give you a copy of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order after you have signed the form.

 

 

C.   IF APPELLANT FAILS TO APPEAR AT THE FIRST RETURN OR SELECTION OF TRIAL DATE HEARING

  1. If appellant fails to appear, the appellee will be allowed to set the trial date, and the appellee will complete and sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order; or 
  2. At the Court's discretion, the case may be continued to a future status conference date.
    • If the case is continued to a future status conference, all counsel and pro se litigants will receive a status conference notice. Follow “status conference” instructions.
  3.  If the appellant fails to appear for a third time, the Court may dismiss the appeal and remand the case to the lower court for enforcement of all orders. 

 

2-B. APPEALS FROM CIRCUIT COURT to the Virginia Court of Appeals or Supreme Court of Virginia

updated 4/24/2023

To appeal a case from the Circuit Court of Alexandria to either the Virginia Court of Appeals of Virginia or the Supreme Court of Virginia, counsel or pro se litigants shall contact the Clerk of Circuit Court in Room 307 (703.746.4044).  

 

 

3. APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

3-A.  Contested hearings

3-B.  Uncontested hearings

3-A. APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR - CONTESTED HEARINGS

updated 2/7/2023

Contested appointment of guardian hearings shall be scheduled for 10:00 a.m. on a non-Motions Day in a courtroom

Petitioner, Respondent and GAL shall appear in the courtroom for the hearing. The proposed 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 Section 64.2-2007(c). If Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the hearing and objects to the entry of the order, a contested hearing will need to be scheduled.

      (1)        File the following documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court:  (1) Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; (2) the Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and (3) Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem with the Clerk of Court.

      (2)        After the Order of Appointment has been entered, schedule a contested Appointment of Guardian hearing for a 10:00 a.m. docket by calling Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123). 

      (3)        At least seven (7) days prior to the hearing date,  file all remaining documents with the Clerk of Court and deliver courtesy copies to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. All remaining document shall include the notice of hearing, proposed final order, etc.  The notice of the hearing must comply with Virginia Code Section 62.2-2004.

      (4)        No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day before the hearing, file the GAL report with the Clerk of Court, and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. 

 

 

3-B. APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN OR CONSERVATOR - UNCONTESTED HEARING

(updated 3/2/2023

Counsel may schedule an uncontested appointment of guardian hearing for a (a) remote hearing on a Motions Day; (b) a hearing on the Court's 9:00 a.m. uncontested docket; or (c) a hearing "on the papers". Please follow the guidance below.

 

(a) a Motions Day - REMOTE HEARING

Petitioner, Respondent, and GAL appear remotely by using the Microsoft Teams meeting link that is emailed by the Court two (2) days prior to the Motions Day hearing. The meeting link is also posted on Court’s website. See "Motions Day" section for detailed instructions. The proposed 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 Section 64.2‑2007(c). If Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the hearing and objects to the entry of the order, a contested hearing will need to be scheduled.

Procedure:

      (1)        File the following documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box  (1) Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; (2) Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and (3) Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.

      (2)        After the Order of Appointment has been entered,  file the following documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box:  (1) Remote Motions Day Praecipe, and (2) proposed final order. The notice of the hearing must comply with Virginia Code Section 62.2‑2004. Refer to “Motions Day Instructions” and “Forms” sections if necessary.

      (3)        No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day before the hearing, file the GAL report  with the Clerk of Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. 

 

(b) uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket

Petitioner and GAL attend the hearing in the courtroom. 

On the day of the hearing, the case is called in the courtroom. 

  • At the hearing, the proposed Order of Appointment of Guardian ad Litem may be entered, based on clear and convincing evidence, in consideration of the factors listed in Virginia Code Section 64.2‑2007(c). 
  • If Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the hearing and objects to the entry of the order, a contested hearing will need to be scheduled.

Procedure:

      (1)        File the following documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box  (1) Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; (2) Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and (3) Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.

      (2)        After the Order of Appointment has been entered,  call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule an uncontested guardianship hearing for 9:00 a.m. (in-person).  Refer to "Uncontested docket at 9:00 a.m." section for additional instructions.

      (3)        At least seven (7) days prior to the hearing, file all remaining documents  with the Clerk of Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.  Documents include notice of hearing, proposed final order, etc.  The notice of the hearing must comply with Virginia Code Section 62.2-2004.

      (4)       No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day before the hearing, file the GAL report  with the Clerk of Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. 

 

 

(c)  in a courtroom “on the papers”. 

Petitioner and GAL DO NOT ATTEND the hearing in the courtroom. 

On the day of the hearing, the case is called in the courtroom.  

  • The proposed 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 Section 64.2-2007(c). 
  • The order is entered only if the respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition does not at the hearing to object to the entry of the order.  
  • If Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the hearing and objects to the entry of the order, a contested hearing shall be scheduled (petitioner will be contacted by a court administrator).

Procedure:

      (1)        File the following documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box  (1) Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; (2) Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and (3) Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.

      (2)        After the Order of Appointment has been entered,  call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule an uncontested guardianship hearing for 9:00 a.m. (on the papers).

      (3)        At least seven (7) days prior to the hearing, file all remaining documents  with the Clerk of Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.  Documents include notice of hearing, proposed final order, etc.  The notice of the hearing must comply with Virginia Code Section 62.2-2004.

      (4)       No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day before the hearing, file the GAL report  with the Clerk of Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. 

 

4. CALENDARS FOR CIRCUIT COURT

(updated 6/2/2023)

 

2023 calendar , revised on 5/17/2023 includes additional 2023 holidays authorized by the Supreme Court of Virginia (July 3, 2023 and December 26, 2023).

 

The Circuit Court calendar is issued (and revised if needed) by Judges’ Chambers. In addition to General Information (such as holidays and early court closures), the calendar includes:

  • Civil docket information - Civil Motions Day; Status Conferences; Set Dates for GDC/JDR appeals; Term Day.
    • CIVIL TRIAL AVAILABILITY - Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123
  • Criminal docket information - Commonwealth Day (both First Thursday and Regular CW Days), Grand Jury dates, and Traffic and Misdemeanor Appeals Docket ("TMAD"). 

 

5. CELL PHONE/ELECTRONIC DEVICES POLICY (as of 9/18/2017)

Policy as of 9/18/2017

CELL PHONES/ELECTRONIC DEVICES ARE PROHIBITED INSIDE ALEXANDRIA COURTHOUSE 

Alexandria Courthouse Cell Phone Policy.    By order dated 9/18/2017, all cell phones, cameras, video recording devices or similar equipment will be prohibited inside the Alexandria Courthouse without court authorization. Persons exempted from this policy are law enforcement personnel, attorneys with a Bar card, media and courthouse staff. A limited number of lockers are available in the courthouse vestibule for a quarter (twenty-five cents). 

The lockers are small, and do not hold a laptop or tablet. 

Individuals who need their phones/devices for evidence or any other purpose in court must request permission from the judge prior to entering the courthouse. Permission may be granted by the judge on a case by case basis.

 

6. CHURCH TRUSTEE

(updated 2/3/2023)

Whenever a church or other religious affiliation seeks confirmation of certain individuals to serve as trustees, the Petitioner shall file the following with the Clerk of Circuit Court:

A.        A Petition setting forth a description of the facts and circumstances surrounding the relief sought, signed by counsel of record (where applicable), or by an individual with authority;

B.        Attach to the Petition - a copy of the relevant provisions of the by-laws or governing document pertaining to elections.

C.       Provide a notarized affidavit stating (a) that the affiant is an officer of the church; (b)  that an election was held pursuant to the applicable by-laws; (c) that a quorum was present; (d) that 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 names of individuals].

D.       A proposed Order containing the names of the appointed trustees, signed by counsel of record (where applicable), or by an individual with authority. 

7. COMMISSIONERS IN CHANCERY

(section added 4/24/2023)

  1. Below is a list of attorneys who have previously served as a Commissioner in Chancery in Alexandria Circuit Court. This list should not be construed as a list of recommended Commissioners in Chancery.
  2.  If counsel is requesting appointment of an attorney as Commissioner in Chancery whose name is not on this list, please submit the attorney's biographical information and experience to the Court, together with the proposed order of appointment.
  3.  If an attorney would like to request their name be added to this list, the attorney shall send a letter to the Chief Judge of Alexandria Circuit Court detailing their experience.

 

ATTORNEYS WITH PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE OF SERVING AS COMMISSIONER IN CHANCERY IN ALEXANDRIA

(updated 4/21/2023)

BUSCEMI, LEONARD P  703-528-8477   5531 Lee Highway #204   Arlington, VA 22207

DINGMAN, PETER   703-519-0999   526 King Street #423  Alexandria, VA  22314

FORRESTER, J CASEY   703-549-7510   6035 Burke Centre Pkwy #270  Burke, VA 22015

FRIEDMAN, FOSTER    703-836-9030   500 Montgomery Street #575  Alexandria, VA 22314

LABOWITZ, KENNETH   703-519-0999   526 King Street #423  Alexandria, VA  22314

TURNER, JAMES D  703-836-3400   124 South Royal Street   Alexandria, VA 22314

 

 

CONTACT INFORMATION

See top of this page.

8. CONTINUANCE REQUESTS FOR CIVIL CASES

(updated 2/7/2023)

In civil cases, continuance requests are granted by permission of a Judge upon good cause. Continuance requests are not granted because discovery has not been completed.

Agreed continuance motions - Follow instructions in "A" below.

Contested or opposed continuance motions shall be scheduled for a Motions Day or an 8:45 a.m. conference call. Follow instructions in "B" below.

 

A.        AGREED CONTINUANCE REQUESTS 

(1)        Counsel shall file a written motion to continue, clearly stating the reason for the continuance request and that opposing counsel agrees to the continuance request. The motion shall be filed with the Clerk of Court and a courtesy copy delivered to the Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. 

(2)        When the courtesy copy is received, a court administrator will speak with a judge regarding the continuance request, and will contact counsel regarding the judge’s decision.

(3)        If a continuance is granted, Counsel shall then call a court administrator  (703.746.4123) together on the same conference call to reschedule the trial date. 

(4)        After rescheduling the trial date, counsel shall file a fully endorsed order of continuance with the Clerk’s Office.

 

B.         CONTESTED OR OPPOSED CONTINUANCE MOTIONS 

shall be scheduled for a Motions Day remote hearing or a 8:45 a.m. conference call with a judge. Follow instructions below.

 

(1)        MOTIONS DAY AT 10:00 A.M. – REMOTE HEARING for contested or opposed continuance motions

(a)        Counsel and/or pro se litigants appear remotely by using the Microsoft Teams meeting link that is emailed by the Court two (2) days prior to the Motions Day hearing. The meeting link is also posted on Court’s website. Refer to "Motions Day" section for detailed instructions.

(b)        Moving counsel (for the party requesting the continuance) shall file a written motion, clearly stating the reason for the continuance, and that opposing counsel objects to the continuance request. The motion shall be filed with the Clerk of Court and a courtesy copy delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor dropbox.

(c)        Moving counsel shall file a  Remote Motions Day Praecipe  (refer to “Motions Day Instructions” and “Forms” sections) and  (b) a notice with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

(d)        The non-moving party prepares a written objection to the continuance request. The objection is filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court and a courtesy copy is delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

(e)        At the Motions Day hearing, the Judge either grants or denies the continuance.

(f)        If a continuance is granted, counsel shall then call a court administrator  (703.746.4123) together on the same conference call to reschedule the trial date. 

(g)        After rescheduling the trial date, counsel shall file a fully endorsed order of continuance with the Clerk’s Office.

           

(2)        8:45 CONFERENCE CALL WITH A JUDGE for contested or opposed continuance motions

(a)        Counsel and/or pro se litigants speak with a judge by conference call.

(b)        Moving counsel (for the party requesting the continuance) shall file a written motion, clearly stating the reason for the continuance, and that opposing counsel objects to the continuance request. The motion shall be filed with the Clerk of Court and a courtesy copy delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor dropbox.

(c)        Moving counsel shall

i.       Call a court administrator (703.746.4123) to get available dates for the conference call;

ii.       Call opposing counsel for an agreed date for the conference call;

iii.       Call a court administrator again to reserve the date/time for the conference call. 

(d)        On the day of the conference call – Moving counsel shall arrange a conference call with opposing counsel, and then call Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same conference call to speak with a Judge.  

(e)        If the continuance is granted, a court administrator will speak with counsel to reschedule the trial date.

9. COURT OF APPEALS OF VIRGINIA - GENERAL INFORMATION

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. 

10. COURTESY COPIES

COURTESY COPIES TO JUDGES’ CHAMBERS 

A.        Courtesy copies may be delivered to the Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box (Attn: Court Administrator).

B.         Emailed documents are not accepted without a judge's permission.

11. DIVORCE INFORMATION

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

11-A.   Pro se divorce packet

11-B.   Documents required to be filed in divorce cases

11-C.   Uncontested divorce cases

11-D.    Contested divorce cases

11-A. DIVORCE CASES - PRO SE DIVORCE PACKET

 (updated 2/7/2023).

Pro se divorce packet for uncontested divorces in Alexandria Circuit Court 

Available from:  Alexandria Law Library (703.746.4077)   In-person at 520 King Street, Lower Level   Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.

Available online:  https://alexlibraryva.org/law-library > scroll down to “Information Packets” on the lower left side of the webpage.

Prepared by Alexandria Circuit Court.  Last update: 4/13/2022.

For use by those persons representing themselves (without an attorney) to obtain an uncontested divorce in Alexandria Circuit Court.,

(1)  Uncontested divorce means the parties have agreed upon all issues before the Court, or it is anticipated that only the plaintiff will actively participate in the divorce proceeding (and that the defendant will not contest the divorce).

(2)  Grounds for divorce must be based on the time the parties have lived separate and apart for the period of time required by law prior to filing for the divorce.

             (a)   The parties have lived separate and apart for one year separation; or

             (b)  The parties have lived separate and apart for six months separation,**and** the parties have a Property Settlement Agreement signed by both parties, **and** the parties have no minor children born or adopted of the marriage.

(3)   The packet includes an overview of the uncontested divorce process in Alexandria Circuit Court, and samples of the required documents.

(4)  The packet does not provide exhaustive explanations. COURT PERSONNEL, INCLUDING LAW CLERKS, CANNOT PROVIDE ANY LEGAL ADVICE.  

       The Court expects you to familiarize yourself with the Virginia laws and rules pertaining to divorces.

        If you need additional guidance, you should seek legal counsel.  

         If you need help finding an attorney, contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral Service at 703.548.4077. 

11-B. DOCUMENTS REQUIRED TO BE FILED IN DIVORCE CASES

(updated 2/7/2023)

Documents required to be filed in divorce cases. Refer to the Pro Se Divorce Packet for sample documents.

 

A.        COMPLAINT

 

B.         (Local Rule) COPE PARENTING CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE –  In all contested divorce cases in which the parties have minor children and seek a ruling as to custody, the Plaintiff is required to attend a COPE parenting seminar and file a certificate of attendance prior to scheduling the divorce hearing. The Defendant is not required to take the parenting seminar.   COPE is not required if (a)the parties have reached an agreement as to custody and ask the Court to incorporate their written agreement into the Final Decree of Divorce; (b) custody has already been determined by a separate court order; or (c) the parties have minor children but the Final Decree does not make a ruling as to custody.  The COPE parenting seminar may be taken in-person, on‑line or by webinar.  A list of COPE parenting seminar providers for Circuit Court is available on the Supreme Court of Virginia's website at https://www.courts.state.va.us/courtadmin/aoc/djs/programs/parented/circuit_providers.html     

 

C.         FINAL DECREE 

(1)        The final decree  must be signed by both parties if Defendant signed the acceptance/waiver in front of a notary public (to accept service and waive notice of further hearings).  The signatures on the Final Decree do not need to be notarized.

(2)        The final decree must include the military status of both plaintiff and defendant.

 

D.        NAME CHANGE ORDER  - If a name change is requested in the Complaint for Divorce, a name change order must be filed with the Court.

 

E.         NOTICE OF FINAL HEARING  (if necessary) - If the Defendant was not personally served with the Complaint for Divorce and Summons by a sheriff or a private process server, the Defendant must be served with a Notice of Final Hearing (advising the date, time, and location of the final hearing). 

(1)        The plaintiff prepares the Notice of Final Hearing. Refer to the “Pro Se Divorce Packet” for detailed instructions and a sample. 

(2)        The plaintiff takes the Notice of Final Hearing to the Clerk of Court to arrange for the Notice of Final Hearing to be served on the Defendant. Service must be by posting or better  by a sheriff or a private process server. 

(3)        The Notice of Final Hearing may be mailed or hand-delivered to the Defendant only if the Defendant has filed an Answer and is not contesting the divorce (Virginia Code Sections 8.01-296 and 20-99).

 

F.         PRIVACY ADDENDUM  - The Privacy Addendum is available on the Supreme Court of Virginia's website at https://www.vacourts.gov/forms/circuit/cc1426.pdf

 

G.        PROOF OF SERVICE 

(1)        The Defendant must be properly served with the Complaint, and the Proof of Service must be filed in the Clerk’s office. 

(2)        Service must be by one of the following:

(a)        Acceptance/Waiver signed in front of a notary public.  https://www.vacourts.gov/forms/circuit/cc1406.pdf 

(b)        Service by Sheriff of Private Process Server (instructions are in the “Pro Se Divorce Packet); or

(c)        Publication –  (Local Rule) If service is by publication in a divorce case, the plaintiff must arrange and pay for a court reporter to attend the ore tenus hearing and prepare a hearing transcript. The Judge will not enter the final decree until after the hearing transcript is filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. The divorce is not final until the Final Decree is entered by a Judge. 

    --  Sample documents and instructions are in the “Pro Se Divorce Packet”. 

    --  The Court cannot recommend a specific court reporter. 

 

H.        PROPERTY SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT -   A PSA is required for all divorces based on a 6 month separation. The PSA must be signed by both parties, but does not need to be notarized.

 

I.          VS-4 FORM – The VS-4 form may be obtained from the Clerk of Court (Room 307).  It is a state form and is not available on-line. 

 

11-C. DIVORCE CASES - UNCONTESTED

(updated 3/2/2023)

In Alexandria Circuit Court, uncontested divorces require either a court hearing or a sworn affidavit (together with other required documents).

 

A.        COURT HEARING (“ORE TENUS”) in which the plaintiff provides oral testimony.  Also see  "Uncontested Docket at 9:00 a.m." section 

(1)        Attended by the Plaintiff and counsel (if any). 

(2)        File all required documents, including the proposed Final Decree, with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

(3)        Wait a least one week after filing documents, and then call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule the ore tenus hearing. The hearing will be scheduled for at least three (3) weeks from when you call Judges’ Chambers.

(4)        (If necessary) – Serve Notice of Final Hearing on the Defendant, and file the proof of service with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to Pro Se Divorce Packet for detailed instructions.

(5)        At the hearing, Plaintiff and plaintiff’s counsel (if any) are required to attend the hearing. Plaintiff will provide oral testimony. Defendant may attend the hearing to observe, but is not required to do so.

(6)        The Final Decree will be entered by the judge at the hearing (unless service was by publication).

 (Local Rule) For service by publication, the Final Decree will be entered when the hearing transcript is filed with the Court. 

 

B.       AFFIDAVIT/DEPOSITION - No hearing is necessary.  

(1)        Refer to the pro se divorce packet for detailed instructions.

(2)        The plaintiff provides written testimony to the Court by signing a sworn affidavit in front of a notary public.

(3)        The affidavit or deposition must be signed and sworn to in front of a notary public. The affidavit must include a statement that neither party is  pregnant from the marriage.

(4)        After all required documents are filed, allow 4 to 6 weeks for the documents to be reviewed and the Final Decree to be entered. 

(5)       After the required documents are filed, the documents are reviewed by a judicial law clerk.  If any document is incorrect or missing, the law clerk will call the plaintiff or plaintiff’s counsel.

(6)        After 4 to 6 weeks from filing all the documents, you may call the Clerk of Circuit Court (703.746.4044) to ask if the Final Decree has been entered.

11-D. DIVORCE CASES - CONTESTED

 (updated 2/7/2023)

A.        ANNULMENTS  are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. docket. Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available dates.

 

B.         CONTESTED DIVORCE CASES are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. docket. Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available dates.

(1)        For contested divorce cases, including Equitable Distributions, the following statements required to be filed five (5) days before trial, with a courtesy copy delivered to the Judges’ 4th floor drop box.  If the parties cannot agree on one statement, each party shall file his/her own proposed statement.

(a)        Agreed factor statement - Va. Code  §§ 20-107.1, 107.3(E), 108.1(B).

(b)        Computations of Guideline Support– Va. Code §§ 20-107.2 and 108.2.  

 

C.         EQUITABLE DISTRIBUTION cases are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. docket. Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available dates.

             A pretrial conference is also required for all Equitable Divorce cases (see "Pretrial Conferences" section).

             Refer to "Contested Divorce Cases" for statements that are required to be filed five (5) days before trial, with a courtesy copy delivered to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.

 

D.         CHILD SUPPORT  cases are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. docket. Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available dates.

12. EMERGENCY HEARINGS

EMERGENCY HEARINGS 

Emergency Hearings may be scheduled by speaking with a judicial law clerk in Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123).

Before the emergency hearing may be scheduled, the motion shall be filed with the Clerk of Court (Room 307), and a courtesy copy delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

13. EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR CIRCUIT COURT LAW CLERKS

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES FOR CIRCUIT COURT LAW CLERKS (updated 2/6/2023)

OPEN UNTIL FILLED:  2024-2026 CLERKSHIP POSITION  2 year term; for law school students graduating in May 2024.  See below for application deadline.

(1)        Alexandria Circuit Court judicial law clerk positions are for law school graduates, and are two year clerkships, beginning in August after your law school graduation.  Law clerks work in Circuit Court Judges' Chambers with all three Circuit Court Judges.

(2)        Judicial law clerks are eligible for most of the standard benefits offered to City of Alexandria employees, including health care, but excluding retirement benefits. Additional benefits to Circuit Court law clerks include paid parking and reimbursement of CLE expenses.

(3)        Applications are submitted by law students in the spring of their second year of law school.

(4)        Application packages are accepted on a rolling basis and shall include a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and a list of references with telephone numbers. Optional: Writing samples (less than 10 pages), to be included in the application package.  Applicants shall email their application packages directly to the Court. Application package should be emailed to the Court Administrator at Lori.knoernschild@alexandriava.gov.   

Deadline to apply: Rolling basis: March 2023 to June 30, 2023 

Application packages are accepted starting in March 2023. Interviews will be conducted in the spring/summer before your 3rd year of law school. Application packages accepted on a rolling basis, but no later than June 30, 2023.  

(5)        Interviews are held in the spring of the law students’ second year of law school.

(6)        Employment begins in August following your law school graduation and sitting for the Virginia State Bar examination.  

14. EXHIBITS

(updated 2/7/2023)

  • Labeling format of exhibits
    • Plaintiff’s exhibits shall be labeled P-1, P-2, etc.   
    • Defendant's exhibits shall be labeled D-1, D-2, etc. 
  •  Exhibits for trials and motions in the courtroom – Bring exhibit to the courtroom on the day of trial.
  • Exhibits for trials and remote motions, including Motions Day (Motions Day will be heard remotely until further notice) - Deliver exhibits to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box by 9:00 a.m. on the day of the hearing.

 

15. EXPUNGEMENTS

(updated 2/7/2023)

The Court has prepared an Expungement Packet that is available from the Alexandria Law Library (703.746.4077), either in person (520 King Street, Lower Level, from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.) or on-line at the Alexandria Law Library’s website at https://alexlibraryva.org/law-library > scroll down to “Information Packets” on the lower left side of the webpage.

A.        The pro se expungement packet was most recently updated on 4/13/2022.

B.         Pro se means you are representing yourself without an attorney.

C.         The packet includes

(1)      General expungement procedures in Alexandria Circuit Court; and

(2)      Samples of the required documents (Petition for Expungement, Order of Expungement).

(3)     IMPORTANT NOTE:  The final Order of Expungement must be signed by both the Petitioner and the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Contact the Commonwealth’s Attorney at 703.746.4100, Room 301 at the Courthouse, to obtain the necessary signature. 

D.         The packet does not provide exhaustive explanations. Court personnel, including law clerks, cannot provide any legal advice.

E.        If you choose to represent yourself in your expungement proceeding, the Court expects you to familiarize yourself with the Virginia laws and rules pertaining to expungements. If you need additional guidance, you should seek legal counsel.  If you need help finding an attorney, contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral Service at 703.548.4077. 

16. FILING DOCUMENTS WITH THE CLERK OF COURT

(updated 5/22/2023)

All documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court in Room 307.   Office hours from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.  Telephone: 703.746.4044.

Neither the Clerk's office nor Judges' Chambers accepts documents by email or facsimile.

Refer to “Orders” and “Signatures” sections for additional guidance.

 

17. FORMS AND PRAECIPES

Alexandria Circuit Court has the following forms available.

A.        DIVORCE CASES 

Acceptance of Service and Waiver of Notice of Future Hearings. Defendant must sign the document in front of a notary public.  https://www.vacourts.gov/forms/circuit/cc1406.pdf 

**NOTE: If the Defendant signs the acceptance of service and waiver of notice of future hearings, the Defendant must also sign the Final Decree. (The Final Decree does not have to be notarized.)

 

B.         MOTIONS DAY (remote until further notice)

 Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (posted 7-14-2022).

Until further notice, motions day hearings will continue to be heard remotely. The praecipe for remote hearings includes the mandatory remote hearing notice. Counsel shall provide email addresses for the moving party/counsel and non-moving party/counsel on the praecipe.

 

C.         TERM DAY (to set a trial date in a civil case)

Term Day Praecipe   updated March 2022

 

D.        TRIAL DATES

 Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order   (updated Nov 2019) 

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. 

After selecting a trial date, a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be completed and signed by counsel and/or pro se litigants. If the trial date is selected by telephone, the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court (Room 307) within two weeks.

 

18. GARNISHMENTS

(updated 6/2/2023)

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

18-A.   On a Motions Day - If the judgment debtor's email address and/or telephone number are available and verifiable (information must be included on the Motions Day praecipe for remote hearings)

18-B.   On a 9:00 docket - If the judgment debtor’s email address and/or telephone number are not available and verifiable

 

18-A. GARNISHMENT HEARINGS ON A MOTIONS DAY DOCKET

If the judgment debtor’s email address and/or telephone number are available and verifiable,

The garnishment hearing shall be held at 10:00 a.m. on a Motions Day (to be held remotely until further notice, unless an exception is permitted by the Court).

1.         Follow the instructions  on the Clerk of Circuit Court’s garnishment instruction sheet. File the required forms and include an envelope addressed to the judgment debtor(s), with the proper postage attached.

2.         Schedule the garnishment hearing for a Motions Day hearing. 

a.         Follow the Court’s “Motions Day-Scheduling Instructions” on this website.

b.         The Motions Day praecipe for Remote hearings shall include the debtor’s email address and/or telephone number. All documents must be filed prior to the deadline (refer to  “Motions Day-Filing Deadlines” section on this website).

c.         Deliver a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

18-B. GARNISHMENT HEARINGS ON A 9:00 DOCKET (ON A NON-MOTIONS DAY)

(updated 6/2/2023)

If the judgment debtor’s email address and/or telephone number ARE NOT available and verifiable,

the garnishment hearing shall be held in a courtroom at 9:00 a.m. on a non‑Motions Day.   

1.         Follow the instructions  on the Clerk of Circuit Court’s garnishment instruction sheet. File the required forms and include an envelope addressed to the judgment debtor(s), with the proper postage attached.

2.         Schedule the garnishment hearing for a 9:00 a.m. hearing on a non-Motions Day by calling Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123.   In-person garnishment hearings are scheduled twice a month on Friday mornings (see  "Uncontested Docket at 9:00 a.m." section on this website). 

3.         After obtaining a date certain from Judges’ Chambers, the creditor shall file the proper praecipe or notice with the Clerk of Circuit Court and provide a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

19. GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS

GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS (updated 8/9/2022)

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”. 

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

Prior to the entry of the order, the General Receiver “shall file an affidavit with the court providing the beneficiary's name, date of birth, and social security number, as well as the proposed dates of final and periodic disbursements. Such affidavit shall be maintained under seal by the clerk unless otherwise ordered by the court, and the information therein shall be used solely for the purposes of financial management and reporting.” 

20. INCLEMENT WEATHER / EMERGENCY CLOSURE POLICY

INCLEMENT WEATHER / EMERGENCY CLOSURE POLICY FOR ALEXANDRIA CIRCUIT COURT (updated 2/7/2023)

The Alexandria Circuit Court will be closed when the Alexandria City Government (not the Alexandria City Public Schools) is closed or when the City Government is two (2) or more hours late in opening due to inclement weather or an emergency. The Alexandria City Employee Hotline (703.746.4636)  is updated with the information as well.

AJIS/Circuit Court IT staff follows the City’s inclement weather policy and shall report to work if the City is open or on delayed arrival. Contact your supervisor if you have questions.

21. INFANT SETTLEMENT HEARINGS - GENERAL

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

21-A.  Contested infant settlement hearings.

21-B.  Uncontested infant settlement hearings.

21-C.   Order appointing Guardian ad Litem for infant settlements.

21-D.   List of Approved Guardians ad Litem for Infant Settlements.

21-A. INFANT SETTLEMENTS: CONTESTED HEARING

(updated 4/10/2023)

Contested infant settlement hearings must be heard on a 10:00 a.m. docket.

PROCEDURE - 10:00 a.m. hearing for contested infant settlement

(1)        File a Petition seeking approval of an Infant Settlement.

(2)        File a proposed Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  The proposed GAL’s name must be on the List of Court Approved GALs for infant settlements (see below).

(3)        Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule a contested hearing at 10:00 a.m. 

(4)        At least seven (7) days prior to the hearing date, file all remaining documents, including notice of hearing, Guardian ad Litem report, and proposed final order.

             *  General Receiver Deposits – see “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions.

(5)       No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day prior to the hearing, file the GAL report with the Clerk’s Office and provide a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers.

(6)       On the day of the hearing, the parties in interest attend the hearing in the courtroom, and the order is entered in the courtroom.

 

 

21-B. INFANT SETTLEMENTS: UNCONTESTED ORDERS (WITH OR WITHOUT A HEARING)

(updated 4/10/2023)

Uncontested infant settlement orders may be entered with or without a hearing.

The following options are available (please follow the procedures below).

               A.   "On the Papers" (without a hearing) 

               B.    Remote hearing on a Motions Day

               C.   In person on an uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket 

 

A.    "ON THE PAPERS" (Without a hearing) 

Procedure

(1)    File a Petition seeking approval of an Infant Settlement.

(2)    File a proposed Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  The proposed GAL’s name must be on the List of Court Approved GALs for infant settlements (refer to “Infant Settlement – GAL Appointment Order” section).

(3)    File all remaining documents, including a statement signed by all parties consenting to waive court appearance, Guardian ad Litem report, and proposed final order. 

(4)    General Receiver Deposits – see “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions.

(5)    The Court will enter the proposed order without a hearing.  If the order cannot be entered, counsel will be contacted by a law clerk. 

 

 

B.  REMOTE HEARING ON A MOTIONS DAY  AT 10:00 A.M.

Procedure

(1)        Also see “Motions Day” section.

(2)        File a Petition seeking approval of an Infant Settlement.

(3)        File a proposed Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem. The proposed GAL’s name must be on the List of Court Approved GALs for infant settlements (refer to “Infant Settlements-List of Approved Guardians ad Litem” section).

(4)        Schedule the Motions Day hearing. Refer to “Motions Day” sections.

(5)        Prior to the Motions Day deadline, file all remaining documents, including the notice and proposed final order, with the praecipe or notice scheduling the case for a Motions Day hearing. 

(6)        General Receiver Deposits – see “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions.

(7)        No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day prior to the Motions Day hearing, the GAL files the GAL report with the Clerk’s Office (Room 307) and delivers a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box. (Emailed GAL reports are not accepted). 

(8)      On the day of the remote Motions Day hearing, the parties in interest attend the hearing virtually, and the order is entered it the Motions Day remote hearing. 

 

 

C.        UNCONTESTED HEARING AT 9:00 DOCKET

Procedure

(1)        File a Petition seeking approval of an Infant Settlement.

(2)        File a proposed Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  The proposed GAL’s name must be on the List of Court Approved GALs for infant settlements (refer to “Infant Settlements-List of Approved Guardians ad Litem” section).

(3)        Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule an uncontested hearing. The hearings are held twice a month on the 9:00 a.m. docket. Refer to "Uncontested docket at 9:00 a.m." section.

(4)        At least seven (7) days prior to the hearing date, file all remaining documents, including notice of hearing, Guardian ad Litem report,  and proposed final order.

(5)        General Receiver Deposits – see “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions.

(6)       No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day prior to the hearing, the GAL files the GAL report with the Clerk’s Office (Room 307) and delivers a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box. (Emailed GAL reports are not accepted). 

(7)      On the day of the hearing, the parties in interest attend the hearing in the courtroom, and the order is entered in the courtroom.

 

 

21-C. INFANT SETTLEMENTS: ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM

 (updated 2/24/2023)

It shall be counsel’s responsibility to submit the name of a proposed Guardian ad Litem ("GAL") on the order of appointment of GAL. 

(1)        Approved GAL List - If the proposed GAL’s name is on the list of approved GALs (see section below), the name of the proposed GAL may be included (typed) on the proposed Order of Appointment.

(2)        Proposed GAL not on Approved GAL list - If the proposed GAL’s name is not on the list of approved GALs, counsel shall file a cover sheet with the name of the proposed GAL and include the proposed GAL’s experience as a GAL.

 (a)        If the judge approves the GAL, the judge will write-in the name of the GAL and enter the order of appointment. The GAL’s name will be added to the list of approved GALs for infant settlements and wrongful death hearings.

 (b)        If the judge denies the GAL, counsel will be contacted by the Court.

(c)        Adding Attorneys to Approved GAL List - If an attorney would like to request their name be added to the list of approved GALs for infant settlements, the attorney shall send a letter to the Chief Judge of Alexandria Circuit Court detailing their experience as a GAL.

21-D. INFANT SETTLEMENTS - LIST OF APPROVED GALs

 (instructions updated 8/9/2022) 

A.        Supreme Court of Virginia list – Guardians/conservators serving as representatives for people who are not minors may be found on the Supreme Court of Virginia’s website at https://www.vacourts.gov/courts/scv/home.html > Programs > Guardians ad Litem > Programs > Guardians ad Litem for Incapacitated Persons.

 

B.         Alexandria List of attorneys who have previously served as Guardians ad Litem in Alexandria Circuit Court for infant settlements. This list should not be construed as a list of recommended Guardians ad Litem. 

(1)        If counsel is requesting a GAL be appointed whose name is not on this list, please submit the proposed GAL’s experience as GAL to the Court. 

 (2)        If an attorney would like to request their name be added to the list of approved GALs for infant settlements, the attorney shall send a letter to the Chief Judge of Alexandria Circuit Court detailing their experience as a GAL.

 

C.         Alexandria list of Attorneys Who Have Previously Served in Alexandria as GAL for Infant Settlements 

(list updated 3/16/2023)

ASCHMANN, FRANK G    703-683-1142         209 South Alfred Street     Alexandria, VA  22314      

BAYNE,JR,  DAVID L,   703-931-5500    4900 Seminary Road, Suite 650     Alexandria, VA   22311  

BECKER, JAMES R         703-281-2614    10619 Jones Street, Suite 201B  Fairfax, VA  22030

BRADLEY, AMY       703-359-7111    10505 Judicial Drive, Suite 203   Fairfax, VA  22030

BRONLEY, JONATHAN R      703-229-0335    10387 Main Street, Suite 201     Fairfax, VA  22030

BROWN IV, MEDFORD J        540-373-3500   910 Princess Anne Street, 2nd Floor    Fredericksburg, VA  22404

CARROLL, III, F ANDREW       703-836-1000   524 King Street   Alexandria, VA  22314

CARTER, THOMAS C          703-836-2000       526 King Street #213   Alexandria, VA  22314

CHINCHILLA, LUIS E     703-535-5456          307 N. Washington Street  Alexandria, VA  22314 

COFFEY, JOHN E      703-684-2000     510 King Street, Suite 301      Alexandria, VA  22314

COLTON, DONNE L        703-836-8989     510 King Street, Suite 400    Alexandria, VA  22314

CONN, ALEXANDER J     703-772-7867    P.O. Box 171   Annandale, VA   22003

DEANE, DAVID        703-224-4403    1106 N. Glebe Road, Suite 1010   Arlington, VA  22201

DUNN, ROBERT C       703-836-9000    P. O. Box 117     Alexandria, VA   22313

FINDLATER, CHRISTOPHER G           703-539-2857   11654 Plaza America Drive, Suite 607  Reston, VA  20190

FORRESTER, J CASEY          703-549-7510   122 South Royal Street     Alexandria, VA   22314

FRIEDMAN, FOSTER S.B.         703-836-9030    616 N. Washington Street    Alexandria, VA  22314

GLASS, BRIAN M        703-352-6400    4011 Chain Bridge Road    Fairfax, VA   22030

GUPTA, ROOPAL     703-352-8833     9401 Lee Highway, Suite 206   Fairfax, VA  22031

HO, ANTHONY      571-429-3408         2800 Eisenhower Avenue #220   Alexandria, VA 22314

JOHNSTON, SABEN NICOLE   703-507-7033    600 Cameron Street   Alexandria, VA  22314

KERBY, III, ELIAS M       703-591-9829     3998 Fair Ridge Drive, Suite 250      Fairfax, VA  22033

LABOWITZ, KENNETH E         703-519-0999    526 King Street #423  Alexandria, VA  22313

LEVINE, BRUCE A       703-246-9494      10615 Judicial Drive, Suite 403   Fairfax, VA  22030 

MACALUSO, ADAM V        703-203-6154       10825 Cross School Road     Reston, VA  20191

MALEK, AZSADEH         703-361-9531      9300 West Courthouse Road, Suite 203  Manassas, VA   20110 

McCONVILLE, JAMES          703-642-5353     7010 Little River Turnpike, Suite 220   Annandale, VA  22003

PEACE, CHRISTOPHER K     804-214-3033   7308 Hanover Green Drive, Suite 201   Mechanicsville, VA  23111

PERSIAN, ERIC      703-392-9215    9842 Business Way     Manassas, VA   20110 

PICKARD, ADRIEN C    703-836-3505   100 N. Pitt Street, Suite 206 Alexandria, VA  22314 

PORTEZ, DANIEL        703-683-7070  108 N. Alfred Street   Alexandria, VA  22314

ROCHKIND, JONATHAN            703-361-0776   9300 West Courthouse Road, Suite 203     Manassas, VA  20110

ROSENBLUM, ALAN       703-548-9002    228 S. Washington Street, Suite 300  Alexandria, VA  22314

SILEK, DAVID W       703-564-4600       8500 Leesburg Pike, Suite 400     Vienna, VA  22182

TRAPENI, JR, JOSEPH T       703-273-1133   3930 Walnut Street, Suite  250   Fairfax, VA  22030

VOGELMAN, JEFFREY A     703-836-3400     124 S. Royal Street    Alexandria, VA  22314

WATKINS, INGA A     703-549-6111  2121 Eisenhower Avenue, Suite 200   Alexandria, VA  22314

YEAGER, MARTIN J A        703-836-1000    524 King Street   Alexandria, VA  22314

22. INTERPRETER SERVICES

updated 5/9/2023

 

A.    Interpreter Shortage

Due to the statewide shortage of interpreters, Interpreter Services may not be able to secure an interpreter for all cases. Interpreter Services shall be contacted immediately when the trial/hearing date is scheduled.

  • For civil cases, counsel and pro se litigants are encouraged to bring their own qualified interpreter to the court trial/hearing.

B.    REQUEST INTERPRETER IMMEDIATELY

         ** A DELAY IN CONTACTING INTERPRETER SERVICES MAY RESULT IN YOUR TRIAL/HEARING NOT GOING FORWARD.

          If interpreter services are needed, IMMEDIATELY contact Interpreter Services (see Instructions below).  Interpreter Services shall be contacted when the trial/hearing is scheduled.  Neither Circuit Court Judges' Chambers nor the Clerk of Circuit Court schedules foreign language interpreters.

 

C.   INSTRUCTIONS TO REQUEST INTERPRETER SERVICES

SEND EMAIL TO REQUEST INTERPRETER SERVICES

1.         Send your email to: schedulefls@vacourts.gov

 

2.        **IMPORTANT*** (to ensure your request is routed to the proper interpreter office)

In the "Subject" field of your email, type the following:

(a)   the date the services are needed;

(b)   location of services (Alexandria);

(c)   the name of the Court (either Circuit, General District or Juvenile); and

(d)   the Language needed (either Spanish  or LOTS (language other than Spanish).

(e)  (if needed)  If interpretation is not in-person in the courtroom, after the language, type Remote (for video or phone interpretation).

           EXAMPLES:    4/13/2023 Alexandria JDR Court Spanish

                                     4/25/2023  Alexandria GDC LOTS

                                     5/10/2023  Alexandria Circuit Spanish Remote

 

3.       In the body of the email, fill out the Interpreter Request Template (see below). All fields are required to be completed.

 ALEXANDRIA COURTHOUSE INTERPRETER REQUEST TEMPLATE

Location (where interpreter should report for this job; include street address if not at courthouse):  

Date/Time:  ______________________

Case Number: ______________________

Case Name:  ______________________

Charge (and Virginia code section charged) (If Civil, a short description of case):  ______________________

Type of Hearing/Meeting:  ______________________

Estimated Length of Hearing/Meeting:  ______________________

Language Needed/For Whom:  ______________________

Requester of Services and contact info: ______________________

NOTES: (Any other information you deem necessary.) ______________________

 

4.     Interpreter contact information

Spanish interpreter - email schedulefls@vacourts.gov

 Languages Other Than Spanish - call Hassan Abdi at 571.435.1786 or email  habdi@vacourts.gov

 

23. LEGAL ADVICE BY COURT PERSONNEL IS PROHIBITED

Court personnel are prohibited from giving legal advice or assistance, including how to fill out legal forms. 

If you need such advice, you must hire an attorney. 

If you need help finding an attorney, contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral Service at 703.548.4077.

 

24. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

24-A.  If you need a marriage celebrant to perform a civil marriage ceremony, refer to the list of Alexandria attorneys who have been authorized by the Court to perform a civil marriage ceremony. 

24-B.    If you reside in the City of Alexandria (not Fairfax County), and want to become a one-time civil marriage celebrant for someone you know.

24-A. MARRIAGE CELEBRANT FOR CIVIL MARRIAGE CEREMONY (LIST OF MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS AUTHORIZED TO PERFORM CIVIL MARRIAGE CEREMONIES

MARRIAGE CELEBRANT for civil marriage ceremony.

LIST OF ALEXANDRIA ATTORNEYS AUTHORIZED TO PERFORM CIVIL MARRIAGE CEREMONIES 

If you need a marriage celebrant to perform a civil marriage ceremony, the Court maintains a list of several local attorneys have been authorized to perform civil marriage ceremonies (in addition to clergy).

To obtain the list, refer to the Clerk of Circuit Court's website at https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkOfCircuitCourt.

24-B. MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS (ONE TIME) TO PERFORM A CIVIL MARRIAGE CEREMONY (updated 2/7/2023)

DO YOU WANT TO BECOME A ONE-TIME CIVIL MARRIAGE CELEBRANT?

AND YOU RESIDE IN THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA (NOT FAIRFAX COUNTY)? 

 

**ONLY FOR THOSE PERSONS WHO RESIDE IN THE CITY OF ALEXANDRIA.  Fairfax County residents must apply with the Circuit Court of Fairfax County.

A resident of the City of Alexandria may petition the Alexandria Circuit Court to become a marriage celebrant to perform a one-time civil marriage ceremony (Virginia Code § 20‑25).

Please file the documents at least thirty (30) days prior to the wedding date.

 

1.   File the following documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court.  The Petitioner is the marriage celebrant (not the person being married).

(a)  A Petition to Perform One Time Civil Marriage Ceremony signed by the Petitioner (marriage celebrant).

(b)  A Proposed Order   “Order of Authorization Pursuant to Virginia Code Section 20-25”; and

(c)  (Local Rule)  A Letter from the Petitioner (Marriage Celebrant) stating (a)  that you live in the City of Alexandria (not Fairfax County); (b)  describing your relationship with the couple getting married; and (c) why you (the petitioner/marriage celebrant) want to perform the civil marriage ceremony.

 

2.   The following fees must be paid.

(a)  Filing Fee

(b)  Bond must be posted (after the order of appointment is entered).

 

25. MEDIATION FOR DISPUTED CUSTODY CASES

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

26. MOTIONS DAY - GENERAL

(updated 6/2/2023)

MOTIONS DAY -GENERAL

Alexandria Circuit Court's Motions Day hearings will continue to be heard remotely via Microsoft Teams until further notice, unless an exception is permitted by the Court. Do not come to court. There are no in-person hearings on Motions Day. 

Motions Day hearings are held the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, except in May, when the schedule may change due to the Judicial Conference.

REMOTE HEARINGS ONLY. All Motions Day Hearings will  continue to be heard remotely by Microsoft Teams until further notice, unless an exception is permitted by the Court. The virtual motions day hearings are open to everyone (court reporters, observers, etc.) by either clicking on the meeting link, or calling the telephone number on the meeting link.

QUESTIONS??  Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 if you have any questions (telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

 

26-A.   Motions Day DOCKET  - The Motions Day docket is posted to this website two (2) business days prior to the Motions Day hearing.

26-B.   Motions Day MEETING LINKS and CALL-IN TELEPHONE NUMBERS - The Motions Day meeting links are posted to this website two (2) business days prior to the Motions Day hearing. There is a separate meeting link for each judge's docket (refer to the posted Motions Day docket for case assignments).

26-C.   (M.D. instructions)  FILING DEADLINES - Includes specific dates of upcoming Motions Days. You may also refer to the Court’s calendar that is posted to this website for specific Motions Day dates.

26-D.   (M.D. instructions)  Filing and Noticing Instructions 

26-E.    (M.D. instructions)  Meeting Links Information

26-F.   (M.D. instructions) Miscellaneous   Information

26-G.   (M.D. instructions)  Videoconference Instructions from the Court - Download Microsoft Teams software to your device prior to the Motions Day hearing. Microsoft Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com.

 

 

 

 

26-A. MOTIONS DAY DOCKET

 

        Motions Day Docket    for June 14, 2023 Motions Day   (posted 6/9/2023 at 2:37 p.m.) 

The Court will assign cases to a specific judge. 

Each Judge's docket will be posted to this website two (2) business days prior to the Motions Day.  Each judge will have a separate docket, and will include all cases assigned to that judge, for both the 10:00am docket and the 2:00pm docket.

*** The moving party is encouraged to check the docket when it is posted to confirm their case has been scheduled. If you have any questions, call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123).

26-B. MOTIONS DAY MEETING LINKS AND CALL-IN TELEPHONE NUMBERS

 

 

 

A.       MEETING LINKS FOR 10:00 A.M.  on MAY 24, 2023    

(posted on 5/19/2023 at 3:40 p.m.)

          (1)     JUDGE JAMES C. CLARK - 10:00 A.M. on MAY 24, 2023                                                                                                                                                         

                        Join on your computer, mobile app or room device

                        Click here to join the meeting

                        Meeting ID: 235 941 172 320
                        Passcode: vsffEs

                        Download Teams | Join on the web

                        Or call in (audio only)

                        +1 703-719-4698,,677890274#   United States, Arlington

                        Phone Conference ID: 677 890 274#

 

         (2)     JUDGE KATHLEEN M. USTON - 10:00 A.M. on MAY 24, 2023     

                       Join on your computer, mobile app or room device

                      Click here to join the meeting

                      Meeting ID: 217 918 867 549
                      Passcode: 8WnaNJ

                      Download Teams | Join on the web

                      Or call in (audio only)

                      +1 703-719-4698,,243769047#   United States, Arlington

                      Phone Conference ID: 243 769 047#

 

          (3)     JUDGE DONALD M. HADDOCK - 10:00 A.M. on MAY 24, 2023 

                        Join on your computer, mobile app or room device

                        Click here to join the meeting

                        Meeting ID: 264 425 948 67
                        Passcode: iwCuQS

                        Download Teams | Join on the web

                        Or call in (audio only)

                        +1 703-719-4698,,474132297#   United States, Arlington

                         Phone Conference ID: 474 132 297#

 

B.       MEETING LINKS FOR 2:00 P.M.  on MAY 24, 2023   

             There is no 2:00P.M. Motion's Day Docket. (posted on 5/19/2023 at 3:40 p.m.)

          

26-C. (M.D. Instructions) FILING DEADLINES

(updated 3/8/2023)

 

A.   INITIAL FILING DEADLINES are at 4:00 p.m. on the Friday two and one-half  (2.5) weeks prior to the Motions Day.  If the Court is closed on the date of the filing deadline, the deadline will be at 4:00 p.m. on the next regular business day that the Court is open. Motions shall be filed by the deadline, or the praecipe/notice shall indicate what date the motion was previously filed. See below for specific filing deadlines of initial motions.

 

Filing Deadline at 4:00 p.m.              DATE OF MOTIONS DAY     *Originals filed in Clerk's office (Room 307); courtesy copies delivered to Judges' Chambers (4th floor drop box)

May 26 deadline for                               JUNE 14, 2023 Motions Day

June 9 deadline  for                              JUNE 28, 2023 Motions Day

June 23 deadline  for                               JULY 12, 2023 Motions Day

July 7 deadline for                                  JULY 26, 2023 Motions Day

July 21  deadline for                                AUGUST 9, 2023 Motions Day

August 4 deadline for                                 AUGUST 23, 2023 Motions Day

August 25 deadline for                              SEPTEMBER 13, 2023 Motions Day

September 8  deadline for                        SEPTEMBER 27, 2023 Motions Day         

September 22  deadline for                         OCTOBER 11, 2023 Motions Day

October 6 deadline  for                                 OCTOBER 25, 2023 Motions Day       

               

 

B.   DEADLINE FOR ADDITIONAL MOTIONS  - 4:00 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Motions Day

Additional Motions may be scheduled only if an initiating motion was placed on the docket by the timely and complete filing of a motion and notice/praecipe. Filing multiple motions does not increase the 25-minute time limit permitted for arguments or rebuttal on each case. Parties may argue as many motions as are properly on the docket but must do so within the 25-minute time block provided.

Originals shall be filed with Clerk of Court; and a courtesy copy delivered to Judges’ Chambers' 4th floor drop box on the same day the additional motion is filed.

Any case requiring more than 25 minutes but less than 2 hours must be specially set on the 2:00 p.m. Motions Day docket, or on a date-certain by contacting Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123).

 

C.    OPPOSITIONS/RESPONSES– The deadline for filing oppositions or responses, and any exhibits thereto, is 4:00 p.m. on the Friday preceding the Motions Day hearing.

 

D.   PROPOSED ORDERS  – The Court’s preference is that proposed orders be filed when the initial motion is filed, but no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Monday preceding the Motions Day. A courtesy copy of all proposed orders shall be delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

 

26-D. (M.D. Instructions) FILING AND NOTICING INSTRUCTIONS

MOTIONS DAY – FILING AND NOTICING A MOTION 

The remote Motions Day instructions, including filing a Remote Motions Day Praecipe  with mandatory remote hearing language, must be followed.  Please call Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 to speak with a Judicial Law Clerk if you do not understand a procedure.

 

1.   (Step #1)  FILE A MOTION

 

A.        INITIAL MOTION

  1. Any party to a civil action who wishes to have a motion heard on a Civil Motions Day shall file a written motion on or before the filing deadline. 
  2. Deadline for filing the initial motion is 4:00 p.m. on the Friday two and one half (2.5) weeks prior to the Motions Day (refer to “Motions Day-Filing Deadlines” section).
  3. Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and a courtesy copy delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

 

B.        ADDITIONAL MOTIONS

  1.  Additional motions may be scheduled only if an initiating motion in the same case was placed on the Motions Day docket by the timely and complete filing of a motion and notice/praecipe. Filing multiple motions does not increase the time limit permitted for arguments or rebuttal on each case (25 minute time limit per case for the 10:00 a.m. docket; 2 hour time limit per case for the 2:00 p.m. docket). Parties may argue as many motions as are properly on the docket but must do so within the time limit.
  2.  Deadline for filing additional motions is 4:00 p.m. on the Wednesday prior to the Motions Day.  
  3. Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and a courtesy copy delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

 

C.        MOTIONS TO COMPEL - Refer to "Motions Day-Miscellaneous" section for guidance.

 

2.         (Step #2)  FILE NOTICE or PRAECIPE FOR MOTIONS DAY

MOTIONS DAY - FILING AND NOTICING A MOTION  (updated 3/8/2023)

 

A.        File the Remote Motions Day Praecipe  In addition to filing the written motion, the moving party (either counsel or pro se litigant) shall file a praecipe or notice to request the Clerk of Circuit Court to docket the motion for a specific Motions Day at 10:00 a.m.

  1.  The filing deadline for initial motions is 4:00 p.m. on the Friday two and one half (2.5) weeks prior to the Motions Day (refer to “Motions Day-Filing Deadlines” section).
  2.  For a list of Motions Day dates and filing deadlines, refer to “Motions Day-Filing Deadlines” section.

 

B.        Mandatory Remote Hearing language must be included on the Motions Day notice/ praecipe. The mandatory remote hearing language is “The matter will be heard remotely via Microsoft Teams” and  “Opposing counsel/party will receive an email from the Court two (2) business days prior to the Motions Day hearing. The Court’s email will include a link to the Microsoft Teams meeting and a telephone number to be used by those participants who do not have internet access.”

 

3.         (Step #3)  NOTIFY OPPOSING PARTY (either counsel or pro se litigant)

The moving party (either counsel or pro se litigant) shall give notice to all counsel of record and/or pro se parties.

A.   Deadline for initial motions - Counsel shall take steps to ensure that the non‑moving party or counsel actually receive the motion and notice/praecipe no later than the Friday two and one-half (2.5) weeks preceding the Motions Day.

B.   Deadline for additional motions - Counsel shall take steps to ensure that the non‑moving party or counsel actually receive the motion and notice/praecipe no later than the Wednesday prior to the Motions Day.

           

4.         (Step #4)  REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

The following documents shall be filed with the Court if appropriate.  Originals shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court (Room 307).   A courtesy copy shall be delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.  A copy shall be provided to the non-moving party (either counsel or pro se litigant).

  1. AUTHORITIES FROM FOREIGN JURISDICTIONS must be attached to any motion.
  2. EVIDENCE/EXHIBITS – Any evidence (testimonial or documentary) anticipated to be relied on during the remote Motions Day hearing, must be identified at the time the motion is filed. Specifically, this includes a list of anticipated witnesses, documents, exhibits, and supplemental affidavits. Plaintiff’s exhibits shall be labeled P-1, P-2, etc. Defendant’s exhibits shall be labeled D-1, D-2, etc.
  3.  MEMORANDA/BRIEFS – If memoranda or briefs are filed, notice and filing deadlines shall comply with Rule 4:15 of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia.
  4. MOTIONS TO COMPEL must include a good faith certification in the body of the motion (see …)
  5. OPPOSITIONS/RESPONSES – The deadline for filing oppositions or responses, and any exhibits thereto, is 4:00 p.m. on the Friday preceding the Motions Day hearing.
  6. PROPOSED ORDERS – The Court’s preference is that proposed orders be filed when the initial motion is filed, but no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Monday preceding the Motions Day. A courtesy copy of all proposed orders shall be delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

 

5.         CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT dockets the case for Motions Days when the notice/praecipe is filed in Room 307.  (Remember to deliver a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.)

26-E. (M.D. Instructions) MEETING LINK INFORMATION

ALL MOTIONS DAYS HEARINGS ARE REMOTE UNTIL FURTHER NOTICE.  DO NOT COME TO COURT.  THERE ARE NO IN-PERSON MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS. 

(1)   Two (2) business days prior to the Motions Day

  • Meeting Invitation is emailed by the Court  to the moving party (or counsel) and all others whose email addresses were provided by the moving party on the Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings. The meeting invitation includes
    • Judge's name and time of hearing (this information is also included on the Motions Day docket that is posted to this website (see separate section);
    • Meeting link to be used by those persons with internet access who have downloaded Microsoft Teams (a free download available at www.microsoft.com) to their device prior to the Motions Day hearing; 
    • Telephone number and phone conference ID number to be used by those persons without internet access; and
    • Videoconference instructions - The videoconference instructions are also posted on this website; see separate section.
    • Notes: 
      • There is a separate meeting link and telephone number for each judge's docket. Refer to the posted docket for the cases assigned to each judge.
      • If the email address of non-moving party was not provided on the Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings, it shall be the responsibility of the moving party to forward the Court’s email with the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation to the non-moving party.
      • If a non-moving party does not have an email address, they may be directed to the Motions Day hearing links posted above.
      • Contact a law clerk at 703.746.4123 if there are any errors on the meeting invitation. 

 

(2)  Prior to the Motions Day Hearing - If you are participating via internet (and not telephone), and you have not already done so, download Microsoft Teams (a free download available at www.microsoft.com) to your device.

 

(3)  On the day of the Motions Day Hearing,

15 minutes prior to the start time:

  • Internet access (to see the judge on your device's screen) - use the meeting link that was included in the meeting invitation. 
  • To participate by telephone - use the call-in number and the phone conference ID number on the meeting invitation.

 

 

     

26-F. (M.D. Instructions) MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION

updated 6/5/2023

A.  MOTIONS DAY hearings are held the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month, except in May, when the schedule may change due to the Judicial Conference. Refer to the Court’s calendar that is posted to this website.

B.   TIME RESTRICTIONS will be rigidly applied.

     (1)    10:00 a.m. docket – Time allotment is 25 minutes per case (10 minutes per side for argument, with 5 minutes for rebuttal).  The moving pro se party or counsel shall notice/praecipe all cases for the 10:00 a.m. session, unless special permission has been received from Judges’ Chambers to schedule the case for the 2:00 p.m. session.   Matters not resolved within 25 minutes will be continued. In cases requiring more than 25 minutes but less than 2 hours, a 2:00 p.m. Motions Day hearing may be scheduled.  Procedure: To schedule for 10:00 a.m. Motions Day docket - No prior permission is necessary to docket a motion for the 10:00 a.m. Motions Day docket. Follow the “Motions Day Instructions” section below.

    (2)   2:00 p.m. docket - Time allotment is more than 25 minutes but less than 2 hours.  Procedure:  To schedule for 2:00 p.m. Motions Day docket - Permission from a judicial law clerk is required prior to filing the motion or praecipe to docket the motion. Each judge is assigned only one case, therefore there are a limited number of slots available. (a)  Confirm opposing counsel (or pro se litigant) is available for a 2:00 p.m. docket. Specifically ask for their agreement to have the case heard at 2:00 p.m.;  (b) Call Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 to reserve a 2:00 p.m. time slot. Speak with a Judicial Law Clerk to ask for available 2:00 p.m. time slots (have the non-moving party’s avoid dates available); and (c) File the notice/praecipe - After obtaining a date certain from Judges’ Chambers, the moving counsel/pro se party shall file the proper praecipe or notice with the Clerk of Court.

C.   WHERE TO FILE DOCUMENTS

       (1)  ORIGINALS  are filed with Clerk of Circuit Court - Room 307..  A document is not deemed filed until it is received and date-stamped by the Clerk of Circuit Court.

       (2)   Courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.   A MANDATORY COURTESY COPY of all notices, praecipes, motions, exhibits, pleadings, proposed orders, etc. shall be delivered to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box when the document is filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Judges' Chambers will not forward any documents to the Clerk of Circuit Court.   Judges' Chambers' does not accept emailed documents without the express permission of a Judge.

       (3)  Copy to opposing counsel or pro se litigant. The moving party shall provide the non-moving party (either counsel or pro se litigant) with copies of all filings, including motions, notices, praecipes, exhibits, etc.

D.    THE COURT MAY REMOVE A MATTER FROM THE MOTIONS DAY DOCKET IF 

         (1) Mandatory remote hearing language was not included on the notice/praecipe; (2) Motions were not timely filed; (3) Courtesy copies were not provided to Judges' Chambers'  4th floor drop box; or (4) Motions to compel do not include mandatory good faith certification in the body of the motion (refer to "Motions Day-Miscellaneous" section).

E.   DOCUMENTS FILED AFTER THE DEADLINE  may not be considered by the Court (e.g., evidence, exhibits, etc.)

-------------------------------------

(updated  6/5/2023)

(1)  CONTINUATION OF MOTIONS

        A.     BY COUNSEL OR PRO SE LITIGANT - from one Motions Day to another Motions Day (deadline: 4:00pm on the day prior to the Motions Day) -  Prior to the deadline (4:00 p.m. on the Tuesday prior to the Motions Day), the moving party shall (a) call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 to remove the motion, (b) file a notice or praecipe to remove the praecipe. To reschedule the motion for a future Motions Day, the moving party shall (a) file a new notice or praecipe prior to the deadline for the new Motions Day.; (b) deliver a courtesy copy of the notice or praecipe to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box;  and (c) provide a courtesy copy of the new praecipe to the non-moving party.

        B.   BY A JUDGE DURING A MOTIONS DAY HEARING -  If a case is continued by the judge during a Motions Day hearing, it is the responsibility of the moving party to file a new notice or praecipe to re-docket the motion prior to the deadline. The praecipe or notice shall include the title of the motion and the date the motion was filed.

(2)    DISCOVERY DISPUTES - Routine discovery disputes, including, but not limited to, motions to compel - Counsel shall confer and attempt to settle such disputes in accordance with the Rules of Court.

(3)  GARNISHMENTS - Refer to "Garnishments" section of this website. 

(4)  GOOD FAITH CERTIFICATION – Mandatory for Motions to Compel (refer to "Motions to Compel" above).

(5)    INTERPRETER SERVICES for Motions Day hearings shall be requested no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Friday one and one-half (1.5) weeks prior to the Motions Day.  Refer to "Interpreter Services" section of the Civil Local Procedures on this website.

6)    MOTIONS TO AMEND PLEADINGS - Counsel seeking leave to amend any pleading shall provide a copy of the proposed amended pleading to opposing counsel and the Court. In opposing such a motion, counsel should bear in mind that Virginia law requires such amendments to be liberally granted in the interest of justice.

7)   MOTIONS TO COMPEL

         (a)  Good faith certification - For all motions to compel, a good faith certification must be included in the body of the motion. Such good faith certification shall state: "The movant has in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with other affected parties in an effort to resolve the dispute without Court action, pursuant to Rules 4:12(a)(2), 4:12(d), or 4:15(b).  Failure to include the mandatory good faith certification in the body of the motion will result in the matter being removed from the docket.

        (b) Discovery disputes, including, but not limited to, motions to compel - Counsel shall confer and attempt to settle such disputes in accordance with the Rules of Court. 

       (c)   Removal of Motions to Compel from the Motions Day docket - Once a motion to compel has been placed on the docket, the parties will be required to appear at the virtual hearing unless the matter is resolved AND the following actions are taken by the moving party.  By 4:00 p.m. on the Tuesday  prior to the Motions Day hearing , (1) the moving party (either counsel or pro se litigant) calls Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to remove the motion from the docket; and (2) the moving party (either counsel or pro se litigant) delivers an agreed order to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. . 

(8)   REMOVAL OF MOTIONS FROM MOTIONS DAY DOCKET

        (a)  For all motions except Motions to Compel -  Only the moving party may remove their own motion. The moving party shall (a) call a law clerk  (703.746.4123) to remove the motion; and (b) file a notice or praecipe to move the motion.  The moving party shall also (a) notify the non-moving party that the motion is being removed from the docket; and (b) provide a copy of the notice or praecipe removing the motion to the non-moving party. 

        (b)  Motions to Compel - see "Motions to Compel" paragraphs above in this section.

(9)  SET DATE MATTERS  (Motions to Set a Trial Date) - For all set-date motions, when the case is called at the Motions Day hearing, the Court will instruct counsel/parties to call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) together on the same telephone conference call to set the trial date date.  All counsel or pro se parties should be on the telephone conference call with Judges' Chambers.

(10)   SHOW CAUSE ORDERS RETURNABLE TO A MOTIONS DAY

          (a)   Non-Moving Party appears remotely (with or without counsel) - If the hearing will take 25 minutes or less, and no evidence other than testimonial evidence and/or exhibits that were timely filed is necessary, the case may proceed.

          (b)  Non-Moving Party appears remotely (with or without counsel) - If the hearing will take more than 25 minutes, and no evidence other than testimonial evidence and/or exhibits that were timely filed is necessary, the case will be continued to a date-certain. The Court will instruct counsel/parties to call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) together on the same telephone conference call to schedule a date-certain.  All counsel or pro se parties should be on the telephone conference call with Judges' Chambers.

          (c)  Non-Moving Party does not appear remotely at the Motions Day hearing - The case shall be rescheduled unless the moving party can demonstrate that the non-moving party was aware of the remote hearing and had access to the Microsoft Teams meeting link or call-in telephone number.

26-G. (M.D. Instructions) VIDEOCONFERENCE INSTRUCTIONS FROM THE COURT

 

A.    IMPORTANT – Download Microsoft Teams to your device prior to the Motions Day hearing (a free download available at www.microsoft.com).

B.     You are receiving this email because you have placed a motion on the upcoming Motions Day. If you have already removed your motion from the docket, you may disregard this invitation. 

C.    Please do not respond to this email other than by accepting or declining the meeting invitation.  The link below for the meeting will also be posted on the Court’s website at www.alexandriava.gov/circuitcourt.  Anyone who does not receive this invitation (parties, court reporters, etc.) may still join the meeting by clicking on the posted link on the Court’s website. Do not call or email the Court to ask that this invitation be sent out again to additional recipients.  If you have any questions that are not about who did, or did not, receive the Microsoft Teams Invitation, please call 703-746-4123. 

D.    Please review the following instructions with regards to the upcoming Motions Day. 

(1)    All hearings will be remotely through Microsoft Teams.

(2)   Please keep your microphone muted until your case is called.

E.    When you hear your case called by the judge, you will need to alert the judge that you are present, and give a time estimate for the amount of time you believe your case requires.

F.   Please note:
(1)    When your case is called, please speak as loudly as possible.
(2)    Make sure you are in a quiet space where you will not be disturbed during the hearing.  Eliminate all ambient noise in the room, even if you think it will not be picked-up on your microphone. 
(3)   If you interrupt the court during any case other than your own, you will be muted and possibly removed from the court proceeding.

27. ORDERS

ORDERS (updated 2/7/2023)

All original orders  shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court in Room 307. 

Do not deliver original orders to the Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.  Optional:  A courtesy copy may be delivered to the Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box, but is not required.  The courtesy copy will not be entered, as Judges' Chambers must wait for the original order to be processed and forwarded by the Clerk of Circuit Court.

A.         AGREED ORDERS OR DECREES require the endorsement of opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

 

B.         EMAILED ORDERS are not accepted without a judge's permission.

 

C.         GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS – See “General Receiver Deposits” section.

 

D.         JUDGMENT ORDERS shall specifically name the defendant(s) upon which the judgment is granted in the last paragraph of the order.  

 

E.        MOTIONS DAY ORDERS - Proposed Orders are required to be delivered to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Monday preceding the Motions Day. This allows time for the proposed order to be placed in the file and entered by the Judge at the Motions Day hearing.

 

F.         NONSUIT ORDERS 

(1)       If no responsive pleading has been filed, Plaintiff's proposed nonsuit order must state that (a) this is their first nonsuit and (b) that no counterclaims, crossclaims, or third-party claims by an adverse party have been filed.  

(2)       If responsive pleadings have been filed, the adverse parties must endorse Plaintiff's proposed nonsuit order.

 

G.         SIGNATURES – Refer to “Signatures” section.

 

H.        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).

 

 

28. PAYMENT OF FUNDS INTO CIRCUIT COURT

All funds paid into the Circuit Court will be deposited in the Clerk of Circuit Courts account, which is non-interest bearing. 

  • If counsel or parties desire funds to be deposited into an interest-bearing account, they may do so by order of the court.
  • The court order should direct that the funds be paid directly to the General Receiver of the Court (not the Clerk of Circuit Court) who 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.

29. PRETRIAL CONFERENCES

(updated 5/25/2023)

A.        A  pretrial conference is mandatory for all civil cases scheduled for more than two days and all Equitable Distribution cases.

B.         The pretrial conference is scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on a date certain four (4)  to six (6) weeks prior to the trial date.

C.         The pretrial conference is attended by counsel and pro se litigants. 

D.        At the pretrial conference, the judge will ask about outstanding issues, estimated length of trial, and the possibility of settlement. 

               (1)        Motions, including motions to continue, cannot be heard at a pretrial conference and shall be scheduled separately from the pretrial conference.

E.         At the court’s discretion, a pretrial conference may be held by conference call.

              (1)        If the pretrial conference is conducted by telephone conference call, the Court will email a specific time to counsel and pro se parties. All counsel and pro se litigants shall coordinate a telephone conference with all counsel and pro se litigants on the same telephone call, and then call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123. 

30. SETTLEMENT CONFERENCES FOR CIVIL CASES

SETTLEMENT CONFERENCES FOR CIVIL CASES (updated 2/7/2023)

Upon agreement, the parties in any case may request a settlement conference to be held at 9:00 a.m. To the extent possible, the Judge presiding over the settlement conference will not hear the case.  

A.        Counsel or pro-se litigants must agree to a settlement conference.  Call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule a settlement conference.

B.         Not less than 5 business days prior to the settlement conference, both parties shall deliver to Judges' Chambers a brief factual statement of the case from their viewpoint and a statement of the amount or conditions of demands or offers.

C.         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.

 

31. SIGNATURES MUST BE ORIGINAL (A "WET" SIGNATURE)

SIGNATURES (updated 2/24/2023)

A.        SIGNATURES MUST BE ORIGINAL (not electronic) 

As required by Virginia Rule of Supreme Court 5:1B(f),  documents must be signed with original, handwritten signatures of all counsel and/or pro se parties. Orders with electronic signatures will not be entered. 

B.         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).

32. STATEMENT OF FACTS

(added 6/7/2023)

For purposes of an appeal, a written statement of facts in lieu of a trial transcript may be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court and become a part of the court record. All procedures as articulated in the Virginia Rules of Supreme Court must be followed.

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. 

If the trial transcript is agreed-to by counsel for all parties, counsel shall file a Motion, proposed Order that has been fully-endorsed, and the transcript with the Clerk of Court.

33. STATUS CONFERENCES

Status Conference notice for June 12, 2023 .

 

Telephone number to call for status conferences:  703.746.4123   Telephone hours are 8:30am to 1:00pm, and then again from 2:00pm to 4:00pm (phones are not answered during lunch).

 

A.        A status conference is scheduled by the Court to either set a trial date, or discuss why service has not been effected within 4 months from the date of filing the case. 

ONE YEAR RULE:  The Court’s goal is to have all civil cases resolved, and the final order entered, within one year of the filing date.

 

B.        INSTRUCTIONS - Follow #1 or #2.   Both Options require all counsel and/or pro se litigants to be on the same telephone conference call to Judges’ Chambers.  If you are represented by counsel, you do not need to participate in the telephone conference call.

 

(1)     Preferable - Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) before the date of the status conference. Telephone hours are 8:30am to 1:00pm, and then again from 2:00pm to 4:00pm (phones are not answered during lunch).

     (a)       A court administrator will assist in (a) setting a trial date [typically within one year from the filing date], or (b) discussing service issues.  

     (c)      After the trial date has been selected, complete and sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order. File the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within two (2) weeks with the Clerk of Court (Room 307).  Refer to "Forms" section for the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.

 

(2)      Less Preferable - Call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) on the date of the status conference.  The telephones will be extremely busy.  If you are unable to get through, please keep trying to call. 

 

C.    Failure to Respond to Status Conference Notice - If plaintiff (or plaintiff’s counsel) does not contact Judges’ Chambers by 1:00 p.m. on the date of the status conference, the Court may enter an Order of Dismissal (dismissing the case from the active case docket).

 

34. STRUCTURED SETTLEMENTS

STRUCTURED SETTLEMENTS (updated 8/9/2022)

Structured settlements may be scheduled on a Motions Day docket (see "Motions Day Instructions" section), or on a 9:00 a.m. uncontested docket. 

A.        On Motions Day docket – Refer to “Motions Day” section.

 

B.         On a 9:00 a.m. docket

(1)        File all documents, including application for approval, notice of proposed transfer and proposed final order containing the statutory requirements  with the Clerk of Circuit Court and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

           *  General Receiver Deposits – see “General Receiver Deposits” section.

(2)        Call Judges’ Chambers to schedule a 9:00 a.m. hearing. The hearing must be scheduled at least 20 days after Judges’ Chambers is contacted.

(3)        Counsel and the payee must attend the final hearing, unless good cause exists and a waiver is filed with the Court.

35. SUPREME COURT OF VIRGINIA - GENERAL INFORMATION

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.

36. TECHNOLOGY IN ALEXANDRIA CIRCUIT COURT (CIVIL AND CRIMINAL TRIALS)

*updated 5/10/2023

Call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) if you have any questions regarding any trials or hearings, including

               *  HYBRID Trial/Hearing (in the courtroom with remote testimony); *Judge's permission required*

               *   REMOTE Trial/Hearing (everyone participates virtually from separate locations); *Judge's permission required*

                *   Technology courtrooms with electronic evidence presentation equipment.

Generally, counsel shall be able to operate the electronic evidence presentation equipment and/or technology cart without IT assistance. The IT team is not always available to provide assistance to counsel during trials.

 

1.   CONTACT INFORMATION

A.       CIRCUIT COURT IT      (703.746.4310)

B.        JUDGES' CHAMBERS    (703.746.4123)

 

2.   EQUIPMENT AVAILABLE IN CIRCUIT COURT COURTROOMS

A.   TEchnology courtrooms 

Currently, there are 2 technology courtrooms available for Electronic Evidence Presentation. CC#2 has Carousel equipment; and CC#4 has Nomad equipment. CC#4 will be unavailable from 4/17/2023 to 5/19/2023 while the tech equipment is being updated to Carousel equipment.

During the trial, counsel or counsel's assistant is responsible for presenting the evidence from the podium. The IT team is not always available to provide assistance to counsel during trials.

To use the Court's electronic evidence presentation software, counsel is required to

        (a)  reserve a technology courtroom as far in advance as possible - refer to "Reservations Required" section;

        (b)  bring their own laptop - refer to "Laptop Specifications" section; and

        (c)  take mandatory training prior to the trial date - refer to "Training" section.

 

B.     Technology Cart for remote testimony AND/OR ELECTRONIC EVIDENCE

In addition, the Court has a technology cart available for remote testimony and/or electronic evidence presentation.

To use the Court's technology cart , counsel is required to

        (a)  Reserve a technology courtroom as far in advance as possible - refer to "Reservations Required" section.

        (b)  Bring their own laptop - refer to "Laptop Specifications" section.

        (c)  Take mandatory training prior to the trial date - refer to "Training" section.

In addition, if the technology cart is being used for remote testimony, counsel is required to 

        (d)  Issue the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation at least two (2) business days prior to the trial date.

 

3.   Laptop Specifications

Counsel shall bring the same laptop to both training and the trial. The laptop shall have Windows OS or Mac OS; and a  native HDMI port. If your laptop does not have a native HDMI port, bring a HDMI dongle/converter with you.

4.   MEETING INVITATION for REMOTE TESTIMONY (a.k.a. "hybrid TRIALS/hearings") - MUST BE RECEIVED BY THE COURT AT LEAST 2 BUSINESS DAY PRIOR TO TRIAL DATE

The Court issues meeting invitations only for Civil Motions Day.  The meeting invitation for all other remote ("hybrid") trials/hearings must be issued by counsel for the person requesting the remote testimony. 

A.   The Court uses only Microsoft Teams. MS Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com. 

B.    For civil cases, the meeting invitation must be received by the court administrators at least two (2) business days prior to the trial date.

C.    For civil cases, send the meeting invitation to 

         (a) the person testifying remotely; 

         (b) opposing counsel, and 

         (c) the court administrators.  Court administrators' email addresses are lori.knoernschild@alexandriava.gov; lucy.scalsky@alexandriava.gov; and jennifer.lazotorres@alexandriava.gov.

        The court administrators will forward the meeting invitation to the courtroom. Circuit Court IT). Refer to "Contact Information" section for the email addresses for the court administrators.

D.    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;

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

 

5.  RESERVATIONS REQUIRED

When calling the Court, be prepared to give the name of the case, the docket number, and the date(s) for trial.

  • Electronic Evidence Presentation (tech courtroom) - Call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) as far in advance as possible.
  • Technology Cart - (a) call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to advise the technology cart will be used; and (b) call Circuit Court IT (703.746.4310) to make a reservation.

 

6.  TRAINING REQUIRED

MANDATORY TRAINING shall be taken prior to the trial date in order to use the Court's technology equipment (Electronic Evidence Presentation software and/or Technology Cart).

PLAN IN ADVANCE IF TRAINING IS NECESSARY.

Walk-in training information

  • WHEN IS WALK-IN TRAINING?  Every Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m.  Reservations are not required for walk-in training.  
    • Arrive by 8:30 a.m., as training will need to be completed by 9:00 AM to allow for any scheduled court proceedings. 
  • WHERE IS TRAINING? Report to Circuit Courtroom #2 on the 4th floor.  (Do not report to Judges' Chambers, as Chambers does not open until 8:30 a.m.)  If the courtroom is not open, call Circuit Court IT at 703.746.4310.  
  • WHAT TO BRING TO TRAINING AND TRIAL?   A laptop (the same laptop to be used at the trial) with Windows OS or Mac OS that will be used during the trial. If the laptop does not have a native HDMI port, you are required to bring an HDMI dongle/converter for your laptop.
  • IS TRAINING AVAILABLE ON DAYS OTHER THAN THURSDAYS?  Training requests for days/times outside of the scheduled Thursday morning training sessions will be considered on a case-by-if case basis, and will be limited to courtroom and IT staff availability. Contact Circuit Court IT at 703.746.4310.  

37. TERM DAY

TERM DAY (updated 2/23/2023)

 Counsel or pro se litigant may notice a case for Term Day to select a trial date.

(1)        Term Day  is at 9:00 a.m. on the second Monday of the month in January, March, May, July, September and November. If a Term Day falls on a holiday, the Term Day will be held the next day Court is open. See “Calendar” section for specific Term Day schedule.

(2)        File a Term Day Praecipe  with the Clerk of Court no later than 4:00 p.m. on the Wednesday preceding the Term Day. Serve the opposing counsel or pro se litigant with the Term Day praecipe.

(3)        Prior to the Term Day, counsel and/or pro se litigant may call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) together on the same telephone conference call to select a trial date.

(4)        At the Term Day hearing, counsel and/or pro se litigant shall appear together to select a trial date.  Until further notice, Term Day hearings are held in the 4th floor lobby at 9:00 a.m.

(5)        After selecting a trial date, a  Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be completed and signed by counsel and/or pro se litigants. If the Pretrial Scheduling Order is not entered at the Term Day hearing, the Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

 

 

38. TRIALS - CIVIL TRIALS - GENERAL INFORMATION

(updated 6/2/2023)

Please refer to the following sections for guidance.

  • (separate section)    Exhibits
  • (separate section) Technology in Alexandria Circuit Court courtrooms
  • Section 38-A   General Information: Trials and hearings are in-person; Settlement or nonsuit prior to trial; Start time for trials.
  • Section 38-B    Hybrid trials/hearings  - Trials in the courtroom with remote testimony  **REQUIRES JUDGE'S PERMISSION**
    • Whomever is requesting the remote testimony must reserve technology equipment; take mandatory training; issue MS Teams meeting invitation; and start the meeting in the courtroom at the appropriate time
    • No later than the first day of trial, the following must be presented
      • Proposed order granting permission for the witness to testify by audiovisual means under Rule 1:27; and
      • Affidavit(s) regarding remote testimony given outside the Commonwealth. 
  • Section 38-C    Jury Trial Information
  • Section 38-D     Multiple Day Trials: Multiple Day Trials: Witnesses and Start Times
  • Section 38-E    Pretrial motions 
  • Section 38-F     Remote hearings (a courtroom is not used; the Judge, counsel, parties, witnesses and others appear remotely from separate locations).  **REQUIRES JUDGE'S PERMISSION**
  • Section 38-G    Settlement or nonsuit prior to trial
  • Section 38-H    Start time for trials

38-A. TRIALS - GENERAL INFORMATION (CIVIL TRIALS)

(updated 4/19/2023)

(1)       All trialS and hearings will be held in-person,

in a courtroom - except for Motions Day, Status Conferences, Term Day, and Selection of Trial Date hearings.

(2)    Settlement or NONSUIT prior to trial 

Counsel are encouraged to notify the Court immediately in order to avoid possible sanctions. During business hours,  call 703.746.4123. After business hours, email court administrators (refer to “Contact Information” section).

(3)     Start time for trials  

is 10:00 a.m. unless otherwise approved by the Court.   For multiple day trials, trial may start at 9:00 a.m. on subsequent days of the trial at judge’s discretion. Counsel and experts shall arrange their schedules accordingly.

 

38-B. TRIALS: HYBRID TRIALS (WITH REMOTE TESTIMONY IF PERMISSION IS GRANTED)

(updated 4/18/2023)

Upon request and for good cause, counsel may request a hybrid trial/hearing for the witness to testify remotely during an in-person trial/hearing. 

An agreed order and witness affidavit may be necessary for remote testimony. 

 

Procedures

(1)    Judges' permission is required.  

          File a written motion (or request) for remote testimony with the Clerk of Court (Room 307) and deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box. Also provide a copy to opposing counsel.

        The written request shall clearly state if opposing counsel agrees or objects to the request for remote testimony. 

         Opposing counsel -  If you object, file a written response, deliver a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box, and provide a copy to opposing counsel.

(2)   Order regarding remote testimony - File an agreed order 

(3)   Contact Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to ask if permission was granted.

 

--If permission is granted,

(4)   Agreed order - If the parties are in agreement regarding the witness testifying remotely, an agreed order shall be presented on the first day of trial granting permission for the witness to testify by audiovisual means under Rule 1:27

(5)  Affidavits regarding Remote Testimony Given Outside the Commonwealth - shall be presented on the first day of trial.

 

-- Reserve Court's technology equipment ASAP and take training

(6)   Follow the instructions in "Technology in the Courtroom-Reserve Equipment" section.  It is imperative that a technology cart be reserved immediately, as the Court has a limited number of technology carts.

 

--   Take Mandatory Training (if you have not already done so). The training must be taken prior to the trial date. Training cannot be taken on the same day as the trial.

(7)   Refer to  "Technology in the Courtroom: Training" section.

(8)  Bring a laptop with you to the training. It should be the same laptop that will be used on the day of trial. Refer to  "Technology in the Courtroom: Laptop Specifications" section.

 

--   Issue the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation - Counsel or pro se litigants who request remote testimony are responsible for issuing the meeting invitation (the court issues meeting invitations only for virtual Motions Day hearings),

(9)   At least 2 business days prior to the trial date - the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation must be received by the person testifying remotely and the Court Administrators. 

Follow the instructions in "Technology in the Courtroom-Meeting Invitation" section.

See "Contact Information" above for court administrators' email addresses.

 

--   On day of trial 

(10)  Use your laptop (that you took to training), use the Microsoft Teams meeting invitation that you issued to start the remote testimony. 

Counsel shall be responsible for operating the Court's technology cart and starting the meeting using the MS Teams meeting link that was previously issued to allow the remote testimony to begin.

Please be advised that Circuit Court IT staff are typically not in the courtroom and may not be available to provide assistance during the trial.

 

 

 

 

38-C. TRIALS: JURY TRIALS

(updated 3/14/2023)

 

(1)   JURY INSTRUCTIONS  

Counsel should file and exchange instructions as specified in the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that was entered in the case.  Plaintiff's instructions should be marked numerically and defendant's instructions should be marked alphabetically.  Efforts should be made to review the instructions prior to the conclusion of the evidence. 

 

(2)  JURY PANEL WEEKLY LIST 

AVAILABLE 3 DAYS BEFORE TRIAL FROM THE CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT (Room 307).   Includes all jurors who have been summoned to appear (name, age, address, occupation and employer) and is available in the Clerk’s office  (703.746.4044).

 

(3) JURY TRIAL LIST

AVAILABLE IN THE COURTROOM ON THE DAY OF TRIAL FROM THE JURY COORDINATOR - Includes jurors who reported for jury duty on the day of the trial. The jury coordinator will deliver the jury trial list to counsel in the courtroom as soon as the list is available.

 

 

(4)  IF A JURY TRIAL SETTLES AND JURORS DO NOT NEED TO REPORT 

Counsel shall contact Judges' Chambers immediately in the following circumstances:  (a) case settles; (b) counsel agree to remove the jury and proceed with a bench trial; or  (c)  a continuance is being requested (judge's permission required). 

  • During business hours (8:30am to 1:00pm; 2:00pm to 4:00pm) - Call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123.
  • After hours, counsel shall email the court administrators (refer to “Contact Information” section for email addresses) and leave a voicemail for the jury coordinator (703.746.4347).

 

38-D. MULTIPLE DAY TRIALS (Witness availability and start time on subsequent days)

(added 4/1/2023)

For all cases scheduled for multiple days, 

  • WITNESS AVAILABILITY - To avoid Court having to recess early or start late, counsel shall make every effort to have their witnesses available and ready to testify.
    • Requests to stagger witnesses 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, counsel shall send a letter to Judges' Chambers (deliver to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box) making the request to stagger witnesses and the proposed schedule of witnesses. The Judges will either approve, disapprove or schedule a conference call with counsel to discuss the request.

  • START TIME ON SUBSEQUENT DAYS - Trial may start at 9:00 a.m. on subsequent days of the trial at the judge’s discretion. Counsel and experts shall arrange their schedules accordingly.

38-E. TRIALS: PRETRIAL MOTIONS - MOTIONS IN LIMINE (TIME LIMIT: 5 Minutes)

(added 4/20/2023)

  • On the day of trial, counsel is limited to 5 minutes to argue any pretrial motions. 
    • For good cause only, if a pretrial motion must be heard on the day of trial (time limit: 5 minutes), the motion shall be filed no later than two (2)  business days prior to the trial date, with a MANDATORY COURTESY COPY delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box. Counsel are encouraged to also contact Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to advise that the motion in limine has been filed.
  • 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, including filing deadlines and mandatory praecipe for remote Motions Day hearings. All Motions Day motions to be heard on a Motions Day shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court (Room 307), with a courtesy copy provided to opposing counsel and delivered to Judges’ Chambers’ 4th floor drop box.

 

38-F. TRIALS: REMOTE HEARINGS

(updated 6/2/2023)

REMOTE HEARINGS rarely occur

(Upon request and for good cause only; with Judge's permission)  Rarely occurs - A Courtroom is not used. All participants (including the Judge) appear remotely via MS Teams meeting link that is issued by the person requesting the remote hearing. The meeting link must be received by Court Administrators at least 2 business days prior to the hearing.   

  • Procedure:  Counsel files a written request explaining the need for all parties to appear remotely with the Clerk of Circuit Court, and delivers a courtesy copy to Judges' Chambers' 4th floor drop box.  Counsel provides a copy of the request to opposing counsel.
  • Counsel will be contacted by a court administrator to advise if the request is granted or denied.
  • If the request is granted, at least 2 days prior to the hearing, the person requesting the remote hearing is responsible for issuing the MS Teams meeting invitation (the Court issues meeting invitations only for Motions Day hearings).
    • Send the judge's meeting invitation to the court administrators (see "Contact Information" above for court administrators' email addresses).
    • Detailed instructions are included in "Technology-Meeting Invitation" section. 

 

 

38-G. TRIALS - SETTING CIVIL TRIAL DATES

(updated 2/24/2023)

There are multiple ways to set a civil trial date.

A.        Cases scheduled by the Court to select a trial date

(1)        Status Conference scheduled by the Court – refer to “Status Conference” section.

(2)        Appeal cases from GDC or JDR - Selection of Trial Date – refer to “Appeals” section.

 

B.         Cases scheduled by counsel or pro se litigant.  If the Defendant has been served, and the proof of service has been filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court

(1)        Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) - All counsel and/or pro se litigants may call Judges’ Chambers together on the same telephone conference call to select a trial date. After selecting a trial date, the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be completed and signed by counsel and pro se litigants, and filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

(2)        Motions Day – Refer to “Motions Day” section. Because all Motions Day hearings are heard remotely until further notice (unless an exception is permitted), after the case is called in the remote courtroom, counsel and/or pro se litigants will be directed to call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule a trial date. After selecting a trial date, the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be completed and signed by counsel and pro se litigants, and filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court.

 (3)        Term Day– refer to “Term Day” section.

39. WRONGFUL DEATH HEARINGS

WRONGFUL DEATH HEARINGS ( (updated 2/24/2023)

All wrongful death settlements require a hearing, either on Motions Day or on a 9:00 a.m. uncontested docket.

 

A.        Motions Day; OR

refer to “Motions Day” sections.

 

B.         9:00 a.m. uncontested docket

On the day of the hearing, the parties in interest attend the hearing in the courtroom, and the order is entered in the courtroom.

Procedure:

(1)        File a petition seeking approval of a Wrongful Death settlement.

(2)        Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) to schedule an Uncontested hearing at 9:00 a.m. 

(3)        File all remaining documents, including notice of hearing and proposed final order at least seven (7) days prior to the hearing date.  

               *  General Receiver Deposits – see “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions.

(4)        No later than 9:00 a.m. on the day prior to the hearing, file the GAL report with the Clerk’s Office and provide a courtesy copy to Judges’ Chambers.

 

40. UNCONTESTED DOCKET AT 9:00 A.M.

UNCONTESTED DOCKET at 9:00 A.M.  (added 4/5/2023)

 

Effective March 1, 2023, the Court will hear an unlimited number of uncontested hearings at 9:00 a.m. on Fridays the same week as Motions Day (Motions Days are generally the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month). 

The uncontested docket will include ore tenus hearings, appointment of guardian hearings, infant settlements, in-person garnishment returns, and SIJS hearings.

 

TO SCHEDULE 

For all cases except for in-person garnishment returns,

1.   File the required documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court (Room 307).

2.   Call Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 (telephone hours are 8:30am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 4:00pm)

3.   File a praecipe with the Clerk of Circuit Court for the date and time (Room 307).

 

For in-person garnishment hearings, counsel may call to schedule the hearing prior to filing the request for garnishment. 

 

DEADLINE

The deadline for scheduling is 4:00 p.m. on the Thursday 3 weeks prior to the uncontested hearing (see below). 

 

Deadline                                    Hearing Date

5/25/23  deadline                      JUNE 16, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

6/8/2023  deadline                   JUNE 30, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

6/22/2023 deadline                  JULY 14, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

7/6/2023  deadline                  JULY 28, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

7/20/2023 deadline                  AUGUST 11, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

8/3/2023 deadline                    AUGUST 25, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

8/24/2023 deadline                    SEPTEMBER 15, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

9/7/2023 deadline                        SEPTEMBER 29, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

9/21/2023 deadline                    OCTOBER 13, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

10/5/2023 deadline                    OCTOBER 27, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

10/26/2023 deadline                 NOVEMBER 17, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.  (Only one (1) uncontested docket in November due to Holidays)

11/22/2023 deadline                DECEMBER 15, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.

12/7/2023 deadline                   DECEMBER 29, 2023 at 9:00 a.m.