The Constitution and Code of Virginia define the structure and function of Virginia's electoral system and the qualifications for voting and holding elective office.

The Code of Virginia, Title 24.2, Chapter 1, Article 3, provides that the majority of the Judges of the Circuit Court appoint the three members of the Electoral Board, who serve staggered three-year terms beginning March 1. Two members must be of the political party of the Governor and one of the other major party. Article II, Section 8, of the Constitution provides that the Electoral Board appoint the Officers of Election and the Registrar.

The Constitution and the Code of Virginia specify the duties of the Electoral Board. The Board must hold public meetings during the first week of February and March. It must also supervise registrations and elections; certify elections; appoint the officers of election and the registrar; prepare a budget and submit it to the City; manage the records of the Board; train officers of election; certify candidates for elective office; and recommend election districts and polling places to City Council

The Code of Virginia, Title 24.2, Chapter 1, Article 4, describes the duties of the Registrar. She manages the voter registration system; conducts a public information program; assists the Electoral Board in formulating and implementing policy; identifies externalities that will affect voter registration and elections; provides information and analysis needed to plan ahead; and coordinates programs with the State Board of Elections, City officials, Voter Registrars' Association of Virginia and other registration and election groups. The Registrar's term is four years.

The Alexandria Electoral Board created the position of Elections Administrator, which is unique in Virginia. Its duties are to manage the election operations of the City; oversee the security, maintenance and repair of voting equipment, and transport it to and from voting precincts; program voting equipment to insure a totally accurate recording and accounting of votes; arrange for the use of public and private facilities as polling places; arrange for the printing of ballots; supervise mailing and securing of absentee ballots; contact election officials to staff the polls; provide instructions on the operation of voting equipment; and coordinate candidates' filing of campaign contribution and expense reports.

Electoral Board members receive part time remuneration, paid by the City and reimbursed by the Commonwealth. The Registrar receives a full time salary, paid by the City and partially reimbursed by the Commonwealth. The Elections Administrator, Deputy Registrar, Assistant Registrar and part time staff are paid by the City.