Guidance that has been recently updated.

1. CELL PHONE POLICY (effective July 1, 2026) - Order regarding portable electronic devices, courthouse screening, and prohibited items. Refer to Section 9.

 LOCAL PROCEDURES – CIVIL 

are on this website.  Scroll down for detailed instructions on Court procedures and policies. 

• TRIALS AND HEARINGS held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment. Refer to "Technology in the courtroom" section for guidance on remote witness testimony (via counsel-provided MS Teams meeting link and the Court's technology cart) or electronic evidence presentation (in a technology courtroom),
• REMOTE MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS. Motions Day hearings will continue to be held remotely via a Microsoft Teams meeting link and telephone call-in numbers provided by the Court 2 business days prior to the Motions Day until further notice unless an exception is permitted by the Court.  Refer to "Motions Day" sections of this website for additional information.

LOCAL PROCEDURES –CRIMINAL

 Local Procedures - Criminal   

• Includes detailed instructions on Court procedures, policies and deadlines.
• TRIALS AND HEARINGS held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
• SETTING TRIAL DATES.  Available criminal trial dates are posted to the Criminal Local Procedure website weekly. 

updated  1/20/2026

Alexandria Circuit Court - Judges' Chambers

520 King Street, 4th floor

Alexandria, VA  22314

703.746.4123

8:30am to 1:00pm; and 2:00pm to 4:00pm

Phone calls only.  

No walk-ins.  No attorneys or pro se litigants are allowed inside of Judges' Chambers.

Drop box is next to the door (exit the elevator; u-turn towards the left; use the clear plastic drop box)

1.    CIRCUIT COURT JUDGES

(updated 7/1/2025)  Circuit Court Judges are elected by a joint vote of both houses of the General Assembly and are commissioned by the Governor for a term of eight years. The Governor can make interim appointments when the General Assembly is in recess. Circuit Court is the trial court of general jurisdiction in Virginia, and the court has authority to try a full range of both civil and criminal cases.

         * Judge Kathleen M. Uston  (Chief Judge)

         * Judge Rebecca J. Wade

         * Judge Heidi E. Meinzer

2.  COURT ADMINISTRATORS  

 A.  General assistance regarding court policies and procedures and scheduling trial dates

 B.  Technology courtroom reservations (for electronic evidence presentation)

3.  JUDICIAL LAW CLERKS (STAFF ATTORNEYS)  

Judicial Law Clerks are licensed attorneys that work with the Circuit Court Judges and provide assistance to counsel and the pro se litigants regarding procedural questions involving Motions Day, etc.  

4.  COURTS IT   703.746.4310

  A.  Tech cart (remote witness testimony) reservation and mandatory training.  Written request for remote witness testimony must be approved in advance by a judge). Follow instructions at "Technology in the Courtroom" section.

   B. Technology courtroom (electronic evidence presentation) mandatory training  (reserve a tech courtroom by calling Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123).

updated  1/20/2026

1.   FORMS AND INFORMATION

   A.  Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Deafblind  

Accommodations Request Form for People who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Deafblind

    B.   Supreme Court of Virginia    

 Supreme Court of Virginia - Website 

   C.  ADA Accommodation Request Form 

 ADA Accommodation Request Form 

2.   CIRCUIT COURT CLERK'S OFFICE ASSISTANCE

    A.   Complete the appropriate form at least 5 business days prior to the court hearing.  Includes the date on which you need assistance, the specific accommodation being requested, and the name, telephone number and email address for the person requesting reasonable ADA accommodations. 

  B.    File the completed ADA form with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

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

3.    CIRCUIT COURT ASSISTANCE - trials, hearings, selection of trial dates, Term Day and/or status conference/docket call hearings.

   A.   Complete the appropriate form at least 5 business days prior to the court hearing.  Includes the date on which you need assistance, the specific accommodation being requested, and the name, telephone number and email address for the person requesting reasonable ADA accommodations. 

   B.  File with the completed ADA form with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    C.  Deliver a MANDATORY COPY to the 4th floor drop box.

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

updated 1/20/2026

1.  SELECTION OF TRIAL DATE HEARINGS

 A.    General District Court (GDC) appeal cases are held on the 2nd Monday of the month at 9:00am in the 4th floor lobby. The date of the hearing will appear on the Notice of Appeal signed by the Appellant and the Notice of Appeal served on the appellee. If the 2nd Monday of the month is a holiday, the hearing will be held on the next business day.

  B.   Juvenile and Domestic Relations (JDR) appeal cases – same as GDC cases above except for termination of parental rights and permanency plan cases (see below).

  C.   JDR appeals – termination of parental rights and a permanency plan cases. Those cases may be scheduled for a selection of trial date on a date other than the 2nd Monday of the month inside Judges’ Chambers on the 4th floor of the courthouse.

2.   TO SET A TRIAL DATE FOR A GDC OR JDR APPEAL CASE

 A.   Instructions to call Chambers prior to the hearing

   (1)   Counsel and pro se litigants (if any) shall call together on the same telephone call to Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 to agree on a trial date and avoid having to attend the selection of trial date hearing. 

    (2)  After selecting a trial date, counsel shall file a fully endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within 14 days with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.  A copy of the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order does not have to be delivered to the 4th floor drop box.   

    or

 B.   Instructions to attend the in-person selection of trial date hearing

   (1)  Counsel and pro se litigants may appear in person in the 4th floor lobby to set a trial date to speak with a court administrator and agree on a trial date.

  (2)  After selecting a trial date, counsel shall sign a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.

3.  IF THE APPELLANT FAILS TO APPEAR AT A SELECTION OF TRIAL DATE HEARING

  A. (Option 1)  The Appellee may set the trial date; or

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

   C.  (Option 3)   The appellant fails to appear for a total of three (3) selection of trial date and/or status conference/docket call hearings, the Court may dismiss the appeal and remand the case to the lower court for enforcement of all orders. The dismissal order will be mailed to all parties.

 updated  4/3/2025

1.    FILE AN APPEAL

Contact the Clerk of Circuit Court prior to the appeal deadline for instructions on how to appeal a case to the Virginia Court of Appeals or to the Supreme Court of Virginia.   Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.   The Clerk of Circuit Court is located at 520 King Street, Room 307  Alexandria, VA  22314.  Telephone number: 703.746.4044.

2.   TRIAL TRANSCRIPTS

A.  AGREED TRANSCRIPTS. If the trial transcript is agreed-to by counsel for all parties, counsel shall file all of the following documents with the Clerk’s Office:  (1) motion; (2) fully-endorsed order; and (3) transcript.

B.  OBJECTIONS TO TRANSCRIPTS.  Any party may object to a transcript or written statement of facts on the ground that it is erroneous or incomplete by following the guidelines as articulated in the Virginia Rules of Supreme Court.  See generally, Va. R. Sup. Ct. 5A:8. 

C.   STATEMENT OF FACTS.  In lieu of a trial transcript, a statement of facts may be filed with the Clerk's office. The Statement of Facts will become part of the court record. All procedures as articulated in the Virginia Rules of Supreme Court must be followed.

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

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

BIRTH CERTIFICATES, AMENDMENT OF

section added 3/9/2026

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

updated 1/23/2026

Call Judges' Chambers if you have questions.  703.746.4123.

A.  2026 COMPREHENSIVE CALENDAR  

(updated on 6/10/2026 to include additional Supreme Court of Virginia holidays) 

The comprehensive calendar includes all holidays, early court closures, civil cases and court events, and criminal cases and court events.

B.    2026 Monthly Calendar  

(updated on 6/10/2026 to include additional Supreme Court of Virginia holidays) 

The monthly calendar includes all holidays, early court closures, civil/criminal cases and court events in a monthly format. 

Cell Phones, Smart Watches and Other Electronic Devices

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

updated 1/23/2026

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

1.   File all required documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box (so the Judges will know the documents were filed).  
3. Required documents include

  A.  PETITION with a description of the facts and circumstances surrounding the relief sought. The petition shall be signed by counsel of record (where applicable), or by an individual with authority.

   B.   BY-LAWS.  Relevant provisions of the by-laws or governing document pertaining to elections shall be attached to the petition.

   C.   NOTARIZED AFFIDAVIT  (signed in front of a notary public) stating (a)  the affiant is an officer of the church; (b) an election was held pursuant to the applicable by-laws; (c) a quorum was present; (d) a vote was taken; (e) the result of the vote; and, (f) that the following individuals were duly elected or appointed to serve as trustees [insert the names of  the individuals].

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

4.   A judicial law clerk will review the documents. If there are any questions or documents are missing, counsel will be contacted by a Judicial Law Clerk (staff attorney). 

5.   Call the Clerk's office at 703.746.4044 to ask if the order has been entered.

6.   Copies of the entered order are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

updated 1/23/2026

1.  File the Motion and Order appointing a Commissioner in Chancery  with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box (so the Judges know the documents were filed).
3. COMMISSIONER IN CHANCERY'S NAME
   1. Shall be included on the Order Appointing Commissioner in Chancery (do not leave the name blank on the order).
   2. Contact the proposed Commissioner in Chancery prior to filing the proposed order to confirm the appointment will be accepted
   3. Counsel may select a Commissioner in Chancery from the list below or select another attorney (follow instructions below).

   4.  Attorneys with previous experience of serving of serving as a Commissioner in Chancery in Alexandria (this list shall not be construed as a list of recommended Commissioners in Chancery).

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

                 Joshua BUSHMAN             675 South Washington Street Alexandria, VA 22314      703.845.9070

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

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

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

4.   ATTORNEYS WHO WISH TO BE ADDED TO THE ABOVE LIST shall send a letter to the Circuit Court Chief Judge detailing their experience.  Address: Alexandria Circuit Court  520 King Street, 4th floor    Alexandria, VA 22305.

5.   TO REQUEST APPOINTMENT of an attorney who is not on the above list.  Counsel shall submit the attorney’s biographical information and experience to the Court, together with the proposed order of appointment.  

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

    b.   Deliver an OPTIONAL copy to the 4th floor drop box. 

See top of this page.

Updated  5/13/2026

CONTINUANCE REQUESTS IN CIVIL CASES

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

1. WRITTEN MOTION TO CONTINUE with opposing counsel's agreement or objection

   1. Prepare a written motion for continuance that includes 
      1. Why the continuance is being requested and
      2. If the opposing counsel AGREES or OBJECTS to the continuance request. (Counsel must contact opposing counsel prior to the preparing the written motion).
   2. File the motion with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

   3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box and provide a copy to opposing counsel.

       

2. AGREED motions 

   AGREED motions to continue (opposing counsel with agrees or does not object to the continuance request)

   1. File the motion with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   2. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box (see above).
   3. Provide a copy to the opposing counsel or pro se litigant.
   4. Call a court administrator (703.746.4123) to reschedule the trial date. Both counsel shall be together on the same telephone conference call when calling Judges' Chambers.

   5. After scheduling the new trial date, file an amended Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order  within five (5) business days. File the original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

       

3. CONTESTED motions to continue.

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

   1. Opposing counsel prepares a written objection 
   2. File the original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
   4. Provide a copy to the moving party.

   5. Follow instructions below to schedule on a motions day hearing or a scheduled conference call.

       

4. MOTIONS DAY HEARING

   Hearing with a judge for a contested motion to continue

   1. Follow the instructions in the "Motions Day" sections of this website.

   2. On the day of the remote Motions Day hearing. If the judge grants the continuance, counsel will be instructed to call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to reschedule the trial date and file a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order regarding the new trial date.

       

5. SCHEDULED CONFERENCE CALL to 703.746.4123

   Hearing with a judge for a contested motion to continue. The conference call must be scheduled in advance.

   1. The moving party (the person asking for the continuance) schedules the conference call. 
      1. Call 703.746.4123 (Judges' Chambers) to determine available dates/times for the conference call.
      2. Call the opposing counsel for an agreed date/time.
      3. Call 703.746.4123 again to schedule the conference call. 
   2. On the day of the telephone conference call, the moving party
      1. Calls opposing counsel/pro se litigant
      2. Then calls 703.746.4123 (Judges' Chambers) on the same telephone conference call.
         1. If continuance is granted, counsel will be transferred to a court administrator to reschedule the trial date.  (If the call is dropped, counsel shall call 703.746.4123 (Judges' Chambers) again to talk with a court administrator.)
         2. After scheduling the new trial date, file an amended Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order  within five (5) business days. File the original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.  
         3. A copy to the 4th floor drop box is not required.

Updated 1/20/2026

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

2.  MANDATORY COPY TO JUDGES' CHAMBERS for all remote Motions Day documents on the same day that the document is filed in Room 307.

3.  ORDERS are entered only after the original is filed with and processed by the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. The Clerk's Office will forward the proposed order to Judges' Chambers for entry. 

4.  Chambers' copies of proposed orders are typically not entered, but are used as an alert that an order was filed or that a case should be on the docket.

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

Updated 1/21/2026

Pro Se Uncontested Divorce Packet 

Free download   Uncontested Divorce Packet for Pro se Litigants   revised June 9, 2026

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

1. The packet is intended to help a pro se litigant file for an uncontested divorce and includes an overview of the uncontested divorce process in Alexandria Circuit Court.  If you choose to proceed without the help of a competent attorney, you might unknowingly give up certain important rights. Many of these rights cannot be claimed later if not addressed as part of your final decree of divorce. Therefore, you are strongly encouraged to consult with an attorney about your individual situation so that you fully understand both your rights and future obligations before any final decree is entered by the Court.
2. SAMPLE FORMS are included in this packet.  They are only SAMPLES and may or may not apply to your particular circumstances. You are responsible for ensuring that the documents you file meet all the statutory requirements applicable to your individual circumstances. There is no substitute for the personalized legal advice that you may receive from a competent attorney.
3. The packet includes information for the Final Decree to be entered after
   1. Uncontested in-person ore tenus divorce hearing (sworn, oral testimony); or
   2. Affidavit Divorce (sworn, written testimony)

NO LEGAL ADVICE - All court personnel are prohibited by law from providing legal advice or guidance in completing documents. If you need additional assistance, you must seek legal counsel. Contact Alexandria Lawyer Referral at 703.548.4077 if you need help finding an attorney.

Updated 1/21/2026

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

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

Updated 1/21/2026

CONTESTED DIVORCE CASES (those cases with unresolved issues such as property [equitable distribution] or child custody, visitation, and child support issues) are scheduled on the 10:00 a.m. contested docket.

1. File all original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2. Serve the complaint on the Defendant.  Proper service must be effected on the Defendant and the required length of time for a responsive pleading must have passed before calling to schedule a trial date.
3. Schedule a trial date.  Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) for available trial dates on the 10:00 a.m. contested docket.
4. STATEMENTS AND COMPUTATIONS. Original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   1. Each party shall file his or her own statement if the parties cannot agree on one statement.
   2. Filing deadline: 5 business days prior to the contested trial date.
   3. AGREED FACTOR STATEMENT   Va. Code Sections 20-107.1, 107.3(E), and 108.1(B).
   4. COMPUTATIONS OF GUIDELINE SUPPORT STATEMENT.  Va. Code Sections  20‑107.2 and 108.2.
5. Attend in-person trial in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.
6. Copies of the final decree may be obtained after the trial date from the Clerk of Circuit Court’s office. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

1/21/2026

Refer to pro se divorce packet.

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

Updated 6/10/2026

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

INSTRUCTIONS

1. WRITTEN MOTION FOR EMERGENCY HEARING. The motion shall clearly state the facts of the case and why an emergency hearing is necessary. Include your contact information (telephone number and email address) on the emergency motion.
2. FILE MOTION.  File the original motion with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
3. DELIVER mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box for Judges' Chambers.
4. PROVIDE A COPY to opposing counsel. 
5. CALL A COURT ADMINISTRATOR at 703.746.4123 to confirm receipt of the 4th floor drop box copy. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
6. COURT REVIEW OF EMERGENCY MOTION. A law clerk (staff attorney) will review the motion with a judge. 
7. COUNSEL IS CONTACTED.  The law clerk will contact counsel (or pro se litigant) with the judge’s decision.
8. Request for Emergency Hearing APPROVED. 
   1. (preferred method)   Counsel on both sides calls Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule the emergency hearing. The moving party shall make reasonable efforts to get opposing counsel on the same conference call. 
   2. (alternative method) If the moving party cannot get opposing counsel on the same conference call, the moving party shall call Judges’ Chambers and explain the efforts taken to get opposing counsel on the same line. Depending on the circumstances, the moving party may be able to schedule the hearing without opposing counsel being on the same telephone conference call.
   3. (Notice filed after scheduling hearing) 
      1. The moving party prepares a NOTICE OF HEARING. The notice of hearing shall state the hearing will be held on [date] and [time] in-person, in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria Virginia 22314. Refer to the 4th floor monitor for the courtroom assignment. 
      2. The original Notice of Hearing is filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
      3. A MANDATORY copy is provided to opposing counsel.
      4. A MANDATORY copy is delivered to the 4th floor drop box. 

9. Request for Emergency Hearing DENIED.  The motion shall be scheduled for a Motions Day if a judge determines that an emergency hearing is not necessary.

    

Updated 6/1/2026

1.  CLERKSHIPS (2 year term) :  Alexandria Circuit Court has three (3) judicial law clerk/staff attorney positions who work with all three Circuit Court judges (law clerks are not assigned to a specific judge).   One or two law clerks will be hired each spring for the position to start the following year.

   TERM OF CLERKSHIP:  2 years, starting in August after you have sat for the Virginia Bar examination.

   TO APPLY: In the spring of your 2L year, email a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, a list of references with telephone numbers, and an optional writing sample (less than 10 pages) to the Court Administrator. The application package may be updated when spring transcripts and class rankings become available. No telephone calls please.   

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

   CLERKSHIPS:

     A.   August 2026 to August 2028 Term - CLOSED; position has been filled.

     B.   August 2027 to August 2029 Term - CLOSED; positions have been filled.

    C.   August 2028 to August 2030 Term - Application period will open in March/April 2027.

2. SUMMER INTERNSHIPS - None.

3. EXTERNSHIPS - None.

    

Updated 4/3/2026

1. IN-PERSON TRIALS AND HEARINGS (in a courtroom on teh 4th floor of the courthouse)
   1. BRING TO TRIAL all evidence on the day of the trial (either hard copies or on a flash drive).
   2. All evidence that is admitted during the trial will be kept by the Court. Any electronic evidence shall be printed as a hard copy or transferred to a flash drive (otherwise the Court will keep your computer or cell phone). 

   3.  ELECTRONIC EVIDENCE to be displayed in a technology courtroom. Refer to “Technology in the Courtroom” section.

       

2. REMOTE TRIALS AND HEARINGS heard remotely (or if one party appearing remotely)
   1. Motions Day hearings. All parties appear remotely.  No in-person hearings on Remote Motions Day.
      1. Deliver the exhibits to the 4th floor drop box at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. 
      2.  Filing deadline: 4:00 p.m. on the Friday prior to the Motions Day hearing. 
   2. All other trials and hearings, if heard remotely or if one party(parties) are appearing remotely.
      1. The party appearing remotely shall deliver the exhibits to the 4th floor drop box at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. 
      2. Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the trial or hearing date at 4:00 p.m.

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

          

3. EXHIBIT LABELING

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

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

updated 7/8/2026

EXPUNGEMENT PACKET

1. The expungement packet includes general instructions and sample documents. It is intended to be used by pro se litigants (those persons without legal counsel) to obtain an expungement in Alexandria Circuit Court. 
2.  Free download from the Alexandria Law Library's website Alexandria Law Library  > scroll to "Information Packets" in the lower left side of the webpage
3. Available for a copying fee from the Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Hours:  9:00am to 2:00pm)

Instructions

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

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

    

NO LEGAL ADVICE FROM COURT PERSONNEL. Court personnel are prohibited by law from providing any legal advice or instructions on how to complete a form.  Find an attorney if you need legal assistance.  Call Alexandria Lawyer Referral at 703.548.4077 if you need help finding an attorney.

Updated 7/8/2026

1. FILE ALL ORIGINAL DOCUMENTS with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2.  MANDATORY COPY to 4th floor drop box for all remote Motions Day documents. Emailed documents are not accepted.
3. OPTIONAL copies of orders may be delivered to the 4th floor drop box, but will not be entered (the Judges wait for the original to be forwarded from the Clerk's office).
4. Refer to individual sections of this website for
   1. Exhibits
   2. Orders
   3. Signatures

Updated  1/20/2026

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

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

    

2. REMOTE MOTIONS DAY PRAECIPE  Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026)

   NEW: Effective with the 4/22/2026 Motions Day and thereafter: The praecipe must include the mandatory Rule 4:15(b) certification listed below. 

   The Court strongly encourages counsel and parties to use the Remote Motions Day praecipe that includes items a, b and c below.  All praecipes without the mandatory information listed below will be rejected. 

   a.   Mandatory remote hearing language; and

   b.  Required email addresses for the moving party (or counsel), non-moving party (or counsel), and other interested parties. 

   c.   Rule 4:15(b) Certification:  "I certify that I have in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with other affected parties in an effort to resolve the subject of the motion without Court action, pursuant to Rule 4:15(b) of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia."

    

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

    

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

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

    

updated 7/8/2026

A.    OPTION 1  (preferred method) 

       HEARING on a REMOTE MOTIONS DAY

Available only if the  judgment debtor's EMAIL ADDRESS and/or TELEPHONE NUMBER are AVAILABLE, VERIFIABLE and included on the Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026).

Instructions for a remote Motions Day garnishment hearing

1.  File the required Clerk of Circuit Court's forms with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   1. Include a stamped envelope (proper postage) addressed to the Judgment Debtor(s).
2.  File the required documents and Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026) with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   1. Deadlines - refer to the Motions Day sections of this website.
   2. Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026). The Court strongly encourages use of the Remote Motions Day Praecipe which includes the MANDATORY remote hearing language and space for the moving party to include the required email addresses of the moving party, the non‑moving party and all interested parties.
      1. All motions day hearings are held remotely until further notice. 
      2. The Remote Motions Day Praecipe must include the debtor’s email address and/or telephone number.
   3. Proposed garnishment order must be filed.
3. Motions Day meeting link and telephone call-in number.
   1. Emailed by the Court 2 business days prior to the remote hearing to all email addresses that were included on the remote motions day praecipe.
   2. Posted to the Court's website > scroll to Motions Day sections.
4. Motions Day hearing
   1. Use the MS Teams meeting link or telephone call-in number to attend the remote hearing.
   2. The court may enter the garnishment order at the remote hearing if appropriate (and if the proposed order was filed and a mandatory copy delivered to the 4th floor drop box on or before the filing deadline).  
5. After the motions day hearing - a copy of entered order is available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

B.  Option 2 (Less Preferred Method) 

      In-PERSON HEARING - ON 9:00am uncontested docket (on a non-Motions Day) 

**  9:00am uncontested docket hearings are held on a Friday once or twice a month. Refer to "Uncontested 9:00am docket" section below for specific dates.   

**  Available for those cases if the judgment debtor’s email address and/or telephone number ARE NOT AVAILABLE OR NOT VERIFIABLE

Instructions for a garnishment hearing on the uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket

1. File the required Clerk of Circuit Court's forms with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   1. Include a stamped envelope (proper postage) addressed to the Judgment Debtor(s).
2. Schedule an in-person hearing.
   1. Consult the "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website for available dates and filing deadlines.
   2. All of the following must be done prior to the filing deadline. Notices of hearing filed without calling a court administrator will not be docketed. (NOTE: The Clerk of Circuit Court does not schedule the case or forward the notice to Judges' Chambers.) 
      1. Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to schedule the hearing. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
      2. File all required documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
      3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy of the required documents to the 4th floor drop box.  
      4. Required documents include
         1. Notice of hearing; and
         2. Proposed garnishment order.
3. Attend the in-person hearing. The hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.
4. at the hearing, the judge will hear oral argument and enter the garnishment order, if appropriate.
5. After the hearing, copies of the entered order are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

updated  7/8/2026

1. Inquires.  All General Receiver inquiries should be directed to the dedicated email address: General.Receiver@alexandriava.gov. 
2. General Receiver.  J. Greg Parks, the Clerk of Alexandria Circuit Court, is the General Receiver of the Alexandria Circuit Court as of 7/1/2025.
3. Instructions. Counsel are encouraged to review the Clerk of Circuit Court's website in addition to these instructions.
4. (mandatory)  GENERAL RECEIVER'S AFFIDAVIT.  
   1. Counsel shall prepare a draft Affidavit to include the beneficiary's name, date of birth and social security number, as well as the proposed dates of final and periodic disbursements.
   2. Counsel shall provide a copy of the affidavit to the General Receiver prior to the entry of the order so that the General Receiver has the necessary information to comply with the affidavit requirement of Va. Code § 8.01-582. 
   3. Such affidavits shall be maintained under seal by the Clerk of Circuit Court unless otherwise ordered by the Court, and the information therein shall be used solely for the purposes of financial management and reporting.
5. (mandatory language)  GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS.  
   1. 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”.
   2. Any orders regarding General Receiver deposits should NOT specify that funds will be deposited with the Clerk of Court or reference Va. Code § 8.01-600. Orders must state that the funds are to be deposited with the General Receiver and reference Va. Code § 8.01-582.
   3. Orders should not include language that conflicts with the duties and role of the General Receiver.  The General Receiver does not hold funds in “trust." Also, the General Receiver does not hold the funds for the “use benefit, education, maintenance and support of the minor.”   The funds will be on deposit with the General Receiver until the minor turns 18 or the court orders otherwise. 
6. (mandatory language)  DATES OF PERIODIC AND FINAL DISBURSEMENTS. The orders shall include the proposed dates of periodic and final disbursements, except when it is unreasonable.
7. (mandatory language) UNCLAIMED FUNDS. 
   1. The proposed order shall include language providing that if the funds held by the General Receiver are not claimed within one year of the dispersal date that the General Receiver will disburse those funds to the Virginia State Treasurer as provided by the Virginia Unclaimed Property Act. 
   2.  Appropriate language would be "ORDERED that if no claim is asserted to the funds held by the General Receiver pursuant to this Order within one (1) year after the dispersal date, the General Receiver is authorized to disburse the funds to the State Treasurer, as Administrator of the Virginia Unclaimed Property Act, pursuant to Virginia Code §55.1-2519, without further petition or order of this Court."
8. (mandatory signature) In addition to counsel's signature the GENERAL RECEIVER'S SIGNATURE must be included on all Orders.  Counsel shall include the following on the proposed order. Counsel shall then present the order to the Clerk of Circuit Court's office and request Mr. Parks' signature on the order.  Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

          Seen and Agreed:

        ___________________________

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

updated 7/8/2026

Guidance is provided on this website for the following:

(Option #1)   Contested In-Person hearing on the 10:00am docket (on a non-Motions Day).

(Option #2)   Uncontested In-Person hearing on the 9:00am uncontested docket

(Option #3)   Uncontested remote hearing on the 10:00am remote Motions Day docket

(Option #1) CONTESTED APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN

IN-PERSON HEARING on the 10:00 a.m. docket (on a non-Motions day) 

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS 
   1. Initiating documents include: Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  
      1. (mandatory language) COURT'S EMAIL ADDRESS probate.intake@alexandriava.gov. All orders appointing a guardian, conservator, or both shall include the current mailing address, email address, and physical address of the court issuing the order and to which such informal written communication shall be directed. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
      2. (mandatory language) GUARDIAN AD LITEM NAME AND SIGNATURE MUST BE INCLUDED. 
         1. (mandatory name of GAL) The name of the proposed Guardian ad Litem shall be included on the order of appointment. Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment.
         2. The Guardian ad Litem shall be from one of the following:
            1. Approved Guardians ad Litem from the Supreme Court of Virginia; or
            2. Attorneys who have previously served in Alexandria Circuit Court as Guardian ad Litem (refer to “Guardians ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website).
         3. (mandatory Signatures)  The order of appointment must include signatures of counsel and the GAL.
   2. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
2. ORDER APPOINTING Guardian Ad Litem must be entered prior to scheduling the contested hearing.
   1. Counsel shall call the Clerk's office (703.746.4044) to confirm the order appointing the GAL has been entered.
3. SCHEDULE THE HEARING. Counsel may call Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 to schedule a 10:00 a.m. in-person CONTESTED hearing after all of the documents have been filed and the GAL has been appointed. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
   1. CONTESTED HEARINGS are held on the 10:00am docket.

4. FILE REMAINING MANDATORY DOCUMENTS.

   Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

   1. Notice of Hearing
      1. Filing deadline: 7 business days prior to the hearing date. 
   2. Final Order.
      1. Filing deadline: 7 business days prior to the hearing date. 
   3. GAL Report.
      1. Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the hearing date.  
5. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING.  
   1. The Petitioner, Respondent and GAL appear in‑person for the contested hearing.  Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.
   2. The Order of Appointment of Guardian ad Litem may be entered at the hearing, based on clear and convincing evidence, in consideration of the factors listed in Virginia Code 64.2‑2007(c).
6. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(Option #2)   UNCONTESTED APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN HEARING

              IN-PERSON  on A 9:00 a.m. uncontested docket 

                (APPEARANCE MAY BE WAIVED)

**  9:00am uncontested docket hearings are held on a Friday once or twice a month. Refer to "Uncontested 9:00am docket" section below for specific dates.   

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS 
   1. Initiating documents include: Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  
      1. (mandatory language) COURT'S EMAIL ADDRESS probate.intake@alexandriava.gov. All orders appointing a guardian, conservator, or both shall include the current mailing address, email address, and physical address of the court issuing the order and to which such informal written communication shall be directed. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
      2. (mandatory language) GUARDIAN AD LITEM NAME AND SIGNATURE MUST BE INCLUDED. 
         1. (mandatory name of GAL) The name of the proposed Guardian ad Litem shall be included on the order of appointment. Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment.
         2. The Guardian ad Litem shall be from one of the following:
            1. Approved Guardians ad Litem from the Supreme Court of Virginia; or
            2. Attorneys who have previously served in Alexandria Circuit Court as Guardian ad Litem (refer to “Guardians ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website).
         3. (mandatory Signatures)  The order of appointment must include signatures of counsel and the GAL.
   2. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
2. ORDER APPOINTING Guardian Ad Litem must be entered prior to scheduling the contested hearing.
   1. Counsel shall call the Clerk's office (703.746.4044) to confirm the order appointing the GAL has been entered.
3. SCHEDULE THE HEARING. Counsel may call Judges’ Chambers at 703.746.4123 to schedule a 10:00 a.m. in-person UNCONTESTED hearing after all of the documents have been filed and the GAL has been appointed. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.
   1. UNCONTESTED In-PERSON HEARINGS are held on the Uncontested 9:00am docket (the dates of which are listed below in the "Uncontested 9:00am docket" section of this website).
   2. PERSONS ATTENDING HEARING. . Counsel shall advise Chambers if the Petitioner, Respondent and GAL will be attending the in-person hearing or if they will waive their appearance. Petitioner, Respondent and GAL appear in‑person for the contested hearing unless their appearance is waived prior to the hearing date. Refer to “Attend the Hearing” below for additional information.

4. FILE REMAINING MANDATORY DOCUMENTS.

   Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

   1. Notice of Hearing and Final Order.
      1. Filing deadline: 7 business days prior to the hearing date. 
   2. GAL Report.
      1. Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the hearing date.  
   3. WAIVER OF APPEARANCE (if applicable) 
      1. Filing deadline:  3 business days prior to the hearing date.  
5. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING.  Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.
   1. The Court calls the case in the courtroom.
   2. Petitioner, Respondent and GAL appear in‑person for the contested hearing unless their appearance is waived.
   3. Order of Appointment of Guardian ad Litem may be entered at the hearing, based on clear and convincing evidence, in consideration of the factors listed in Virginia Code 64.2‑2007(c).
   4. Objections to entry of order. The order will not be entered if the Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the uncontested in-person hearing and objects to the entry of the order. 
      1. If Petitioner, Respondent and GAL are in the courtroom - Counsel will be sent to Judges' Chambers to schedule a contested hearing on a 10:00 a.m. docket
      2. If Petitioner, Respondent and GAL's attendance was waived (and they are not in the courtroom), a court administrator will contact counsel to advise that a contested hearing be scheduled on a 10:00 a.m. docket.
6. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(Option #3)   UNCONTESTED APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN HEARING

                  REMOTE MOTIONS DAY HEARING At 10:00 a.m. 

                   (Petitioner, respondent and Gal attend the hearing remotely)

** Motions Days are the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month (confirm M.D. dates on the CALENDAR that is posted to this website)

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS 
   1. Initiating documents include: Petition to Appoint a Guardian and Conservator; Motion to Appoint a Guardian ad Litem; and Order Appointing Guardian ad Litem.  
      1. (mandatory language) COURT'S EMAIL ADDRESS probate.intake@alexandriava.gov. All orders appointing a guardian, conservator, or both shall include the current mailing address, email address, and physical address of the court issuing the order and to which such informal written communication shall be directed. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
      2. (mandatory language) GUARDIAN AD LITEM NAME AND SIGNATURE MUST BE INCLUDED. 
         1. (mandatory name of GAL) The name of the proposed Guardian ad Litem shall be included on the order of appointment. Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment.
         2. The Guardian ad Litem shall be from one of the following:
            1. Approved Guardians ad Litem from the Supreme Court of Virginia; or
            2. Attorneys who have previously served in Alexandria Circuit Court as Guardian ad Litem (refer to “Guardians ad Litem Appointment Order” section of this website).
         3. (mandatory Signatures)  The order of appointment must include signatures of counsel and the GAL.
2. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.
4. SCHEDULE THE remote MOTIONS DAY HEARING.  Motions Day dates and filing deadlines are posted to this website > scroll to the "Motions Day" sections.
   1. Prepare a Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026). The Court strongly encourages use of the Remote Motions Day praecipe which includes the mandatory remote hearing language and space for the moving party to include the required email addresses of the moving party, the non-moving party and all interested parties.
   2. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

5. FILE REMAINING MANDATORY DOCUMENTS.

   Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

   1. GAL Report.
      1. Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the hearing date.  
6. ATTEND THE REMOTE HEARING on a Motions Day (2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month; except in May when the schedule may change. Refer to the "Calendar" section of this website.)
   1. MOTIONS DAY LINK contains the Microsoft Teams meeting link (to participate with audio and video) and telephone call-in number (to participate with audio only)
      1. Issued by the Court two business days prior to the Motions Day date.
      2. Emailed to all persons whose email addresses were included on the remote Motions Day praecipe that counsel filed to docket the case for the Motions Day.
      3. Meeting links and telephone call-in number are posted to the Court's website
   2. The Court calls the case in the courtroom.
   3. Order of Appointment of Guardian ad Litem may be entered at the hearing, based on clear and convincing evidence, in consideration of the factors listed in Virginia Code 64.2‑2007(c).
   4. Objections to entry of order. The order will not be entered if the Respondent or any other entity whose name is included in the petition appears at the uncontested in-person hearing and objects to the entry of the order. If this occurs, a contested hearing on a 10:00 a.m. docket will have to be scheduled.
7. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT THE HEARING (if any) are available after the hearing from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

updated  7/8/2026

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

APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM for INFANT SETTLEMENTS and WRONGFUL DEATH HEARINGS

Instructions

1.   APPOINTMENT OF GUARDIAN AD LITEM ORDER.

        (mandatory) GUARDIAN AD LITEM NAME MUST BE INCLUDED. 

             (1)  The name of the proposed Guardian ad Litem shall be included on the order of appointment. Counsel shall contact the proposed Guardian ad Litem to confirm the person is willing to accept the appointment.

           (2) The Guardian ad Litem shall be from the  Supreme Court of Virginia's website  Scroll to > Programs > Guardians ad Litem > Programs > Guardians ad Litem for Incapacitated Persons; or the List of Attorneys who have previously served in Alexandria Circuit Court as Guardian ad Litem for infant settlements and wrongful death hearings (see below).

    2.  (mandatory signatures) The order of appointment shall include signatures counsel and the Guardian ad Litem.

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

    4.   Deliver an OPTIONAL copy to the 4th floor drop box.

====================================           

INCLEMENT WEATHER POLICY is as follows.

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

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

Inclement Weather Schedule Order entered 1/23/2026

updated  1/23/2026

(Option #1)   Contested In-Person Hearing:  10:00 a.m.

(Option #2)     Uncontested Entry of order without a hearing

(Option #3)    Uncontested Remote Motions Day Hearing: 10:00 a.m.

(Option #4)    Uncontested In-Person Hearing:  9:00 a.m. 

(Option #1) CONTESTED INFANT SETTLEMENT

                     IN-PERSON HEARING: 10:00 a.m. 

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

1.  INITIATING DOCUMENTS

   A.   Initiating documents include 

         (1)  PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF INFANT SETTLEMENT

          (2)  ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM. Refer to the “Guardian ad Litem” section of this website for guidance, including Lists of Approved Guardians ad Litem for Infant Settlements from the Alexandria Circuit Court and the Supreme Court of Virginia, as well as instructions to appoint a GAL whose name is not on either list.

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

   C.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

    

2. ORDER APPOINTING GAL MUST BE ENTERED before taking the next steps.

   A.   Obtain copy of order appointing GAL from the the Clerk of Circuit Court 703.746.4044. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

    

3. SCHEDULE HEARING  10:00 a.m. contested hearing

   A.   Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to schedule a contested hearing on the 10:00 a.m. docket. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm and 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

    

4. FILE REMAINING MANDATORY DOCUMENTS 

   Original documents shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

   A.   NOTICE OF HEARING

             (1)   Filing deadline:  7 business days prior to the hearing date.

   B.   FINAL ORDER.  Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional instructions.

           (1)   Filing deadline:  7 business days prior to the hearing date.

   C.    GUARDIAN AD LITEM REPORT

            (1)  Filing deadline:  3 business days prior to the hearing date.

    

5. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING. The parties-in-interest attend the hearing in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street  Alexandria, VA  22314 (refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment).

    

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

    

(OPtion #2)   Uncontested INFANT SETTLEMENT

                    Entry of order without a hearing

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS. 

   A.   Initiating documents include 

           (1)  PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF INFANT SETTLEMENT

             (2)  ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM. Refer to the “Guardian ad Litem” section of this website for guidance, including Lists of Approved Guardians ad Litem for Infant Settlements from the Alexandria Circuit Court and the Supreme Court of Virginia, as well as instructions to appoint a GAL whose name is not on either list.

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

   C.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

    

2. FILE REMAINING MANDATORY DOCUMENTS 

   A.   WAIVER OF ATTENDANCE at Hearing from all parties consenting to waive their appearance at a court hearing;

   B.  GUARDIAN AD LITEM report; and

   C.  FINAL ORDER.  For the final order, refer to “General Receiver Deposits” section for additional instructions.

    

3. DOCUMENT REVIEW by the Court

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

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

    

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

    

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

    

(Option #3)  Uncontested INFANT SETTLEMENT

                       ENTRY OF ORDER ON Remote Motions Day Hearing: 10:00 a.m.

Motions Day hearings are at 10:00 a.m. on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month. The schedule may change due to holidays or judicial conference (refer to the "Calendar" section of this website for the posted calendar).

1. Follow the instructions on the "Motions Day" sections of this website.
2. Specific Motions Day dates and filing deadlines are posted on this website ("Motions Day" sections).

(Option #4)   Uncontested INFANT SETTLEMENT

                        ENTRY OF ORDER AT In-Person Hearing:  9:00 a.m. 

1. INITIATING DOCUMENTS. 

   A.   Initiating documents include

        (1)  PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF AN INFANT SETTLEMENT; and

          (2)  ORDER APPOINTING GUARDIAN AD LITEM.  Refer to the “Guardian ad Litem” section of this website for guidance, including Lists of Approved Guardians ad Litem for Infant Settlements from the Alexandria Circuit Court and the Supreme Court of Virginia, as well as instructions to appoint a GAL whose name is not on either list.

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

   C.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

    

2. SCHEDULE IN-PERSON HEARING

   A.   Consult the "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website for available dates and filing deadlines.

   B.   All of the following must be done prior to the filing deadline. Notices of hearing filed without calling a court administrator will not be docketed. (NOTE: The Clerk of Circuit Court does not schedule the case or forward the notice to Judges' Chambers.) 

          (1)   Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to schedule the hearing. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

          (2)  FILE ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS to include

               a.   NOTICE OF HEARING.  Filing deadline is posted on this website at  "Uncontested 9:00am docket".

              b.   FINAL ORDER.  For the final order, refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional instructions.

                        ** Filing deadline (posted on this website at "Uncontested 9:00am docket").

                c.   GUARDIAN AD LITEM report.  Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the hearing date.

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

               e.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy of the required documents to the 4th floor drop box.  

    

3. ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING. The parties-in-interest attend the hearing in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street  Alexandria, VA  22314 (refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment).

    

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

Updated 1/23/2026

INTERPRETER SERVICES shall be requested by the person who needs interpreter services (or their counsel). 

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

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

1.   Complete the Foreign Language Interpreter Request Form 

https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/f0a715a70ca74961b5a1562445568373

          A.   CIVIL case instructions. All of the following information must be provided

            (1)  Case name

            (2)  Case number

            (3)  Language needed

           (4)  Country (optional)

           (5)  Hearing date

           (6)  Hearing time

           (7)  Estimated length of hearing

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

           (9) Attorney's name (if any)

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

          B.    CRIMINAL case instructions. All of the following information must be provided

             (1)  All of the information in paragraph A must be provided

           (2)  The code section and charge are also needed.

           C.    COURT OF APPEALS case instructions. 

          (1)  All of the information in paragraph A must be provided.

          (2)  Include "Court of Appeals" on the request

2.  CONFIRM REQUEST was received

 Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123. 

3.  CANCEL INTERPRETER if necessary

  IMPORTANT!  If the case has settled or is removed from the docket, please call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to cancel the interpreter.

updated 2/11/2026

JURY DUTY SCAM ALERT.  

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

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

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

Updated 7/8/2026

(1)    JURY SUMMONS INFORMATION

         ALEXANDRIA RESIDENTS who received a juror summons

          for Alexandria Circuit Court    520  king street    Alexandria, VA  22314

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

(2)  JURY INSTRUCTIONS - PREPARED BY COUNSEL

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

1. File original with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
2. Exchange with opposing counsel in accordance with the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that was entered in the case.
3. Filing deadline: Refer to Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.

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

        AVAILABLE 5 BUSINESS DAYS PRIOR TO SCHEDULED TRIAL DATE

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

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

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

    

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

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

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

    

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

 Updated 1/23/2026

marriage celebrant list 

A.     CLERGY

B.    ATTORNEYS AUTHORIZED TO PERFORM A CIVIL MARRIAGE CEREMONY

Circuit Court's list of attorneys authorized to perform a civil marriage ceremony can be found at https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkOfCircuitCourt.  

C.     ONE-TIME CIVIL MARRIAGE CELEBRANTS 

            (for ALEXANDRIA RESIDENTS ONLY) 

          Virginia Code section 20-25

(Mandatory)  The marriage celebrant (the person performing the marriage) must reside in the City of Alexandria. Fairfax County residents must apply with Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 (703.691.7320).  

(Mandatory) The petitioner is required to post a bond after the order is entered.

Instructions for the petitioner (the person performing the marriage ceremony).

1. Prepare 3 required documents
   1. Petition to Perform One‑Time Civil Marriage Ceremony that is signed by the Petitioner (the marriage celebrant);
   2. Order of Authorization Pursuant to Virginia Code Section 20-25; and
   3. Detailed Letter from Petitioner (local rule required by the Alexandria Circuit Court Judges) stating that 
      1. The petitioner (the marriage celebrant) lives in the City of Alexandria; 
      2.  Describing the petitioner’s relationship with the couple getting married; and 
      3. The reason why the petitioner wants to perform the civil marriage ceremony. 
2.  File all 3 required documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   1. Deadline to file:  30 days prior to the marriage date.
3. Pay the required fee to the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
4. The Clerk's office forwards the documents to the Judges' Chambers, where the documents are reviewed and the order is entered.
5. Contact the Clerk of Court (703.746.4044) to ask if the order has been entered.
6. The petitioner is required to post a bond with the Clerk of Circuit Court after the order is entered.

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

Section added 4/15/2026

MOTIONS - FILING DEADLINES for CIVIL MOTIONS scheduled for a non-Motions Day.

1.  Scheduling.  Counsel shall call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call after the motion has been filed.

2. Filing deadlines are the same as Motions Day deadlines. If a deadline falls on a holiday, the deadline is pushed back one day for each day the Court is closed

   A.  The motion shall be filed prior to scheduling the hearing date.

   B.  Memo in support of motion – due two weeks prior to the hearing date.

   C.  Opposition or response to the motion – due one week prior to the hearing date.

3. Filing guidance.  File the original in Room 307, provide a copy to opposing counsel and deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

updated  6/4/2026 

1.   Effective with the 4/22/2026 remote motions day and thereafter,

   A.   Page limit.  All motions, memorandums, responses briefs, and oppositions are not to exceed 5-pages together total with 12-point double spaced font.  (For example, if the moving party files a motion and separate memorandum, the page limit is 5 pages together for both documents.)  Any motions, memorandums, responses or oppositions above the page limit total must be heard on a date certain or a 2:00 p.m. remote motions day docket. 

    B.   Updated praecipe.   Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3/13/2026).  The Court encourages use of the updated praecipe because in includes (a) mandatory remote hearing language; (b) space for the moving party to provide required email addresses for the moving party, non-moving party and all interested parties; and (c) the mandatory Rule 4:15 language: "I certify that I have in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with other affected parties in an effort to resolve the subject of the motion without Court action, pursuant to Rule 4:15(b) of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia." All praecipes or notices without the required information will be rejected and the motion will be removed from the remote Motions Day docket. 

2.   Motions Day Guidance (updated 4/14/2026)  Refer to Section 33-D below.

3.    Motions Day questions?  Call a Judicial law clerk in Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123. Telephones are answered from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., and from 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

MOTIONS DAY SECTIONS OF THIS WEBSITE

34-A.   MOTIONS DAY DOCKET. The docket for the next Motions Day is posted 2 business days prior to the Motions Day.  Refer to the docket to determine what judge has been assigned to the case. 

34-B.   MEETING LINKS and CALL-IN TELEPHONE NUMBERS 

34-C.   MOTIONS DAY - SPECIFIC DATES WITH FILING DEADLINES 

34-D.   MOTIONS DAY INSTRUCTIONS. Includes information on how to file a motion for a remote Motions Day hearing.

1.    HOW TO PARTICIPATE IN REMOTE MOTIONS DAY HEARINGS.   

       IMPORTANT:  Do not come to the courthouse.

       A.  Option #1 – Via MICROSOFT TEAMS MEETING LINK (audio and video if your device allows those options)

              Download the Microsoft Teams application to your device if needed (free from  www.microsoft.com) and then 

              click on the Microsoft Teams meeting link that was that was emailed to you or posted on the Court’s website

                (2 days prior to the motions day date). 

       B.   Option #2 - Via TELEPHONE CALL-IN NUMBER (audio only; no video). 

                 Dial the TELEPHONE NUMBER  listed on the meeting invitation or posted on the Court's website 

                  and enter the ACCESS CODE. 

    

2.   HOW TO DETERMINE JUDGE ASSIGNMENT FOR EACH MOTIONS DAY CASE

               Go to the Court's website .www.alexandriava.gov/CircuitCourt 

               Scroll to , “Motions Day – Docket for the next Motions Day”.

               Click on the document.

    

updated 07/06/26

The docket for the next Motions Day is posted 2 business days prior to the Motions Day.  Refer to the docket to determine what judge has been assigned to the case. 

Section 34-B contains the MOTIONS DAY MEETING LINKS and TELEPHONE CALL-IN NUMBERS. 

     Motions Day Docket   for JULY 8, 2026 Motions Day   (posted 7/08/2026 at 7:00 a.m.) 

     NOTE: If this link does not display the correct docket, you should click on the link to display the docket, and then 

     hold the SHIFT key and click on the Refresh arrow.    

            10:00 a.m. docket - each judge has a separate docket

                            Judge Kathleen M. Uston 

                            Judge Heidi E. Meinzer        

            2:00 p.m. docket - each judge has a separate docket 

                            NO 2:00 p.m. DOCKET

MEETING LINK:   Each case has been assigned to a specific judge. Use the meeting links posted in Section 32-B below to access the remote Motions Day hearing. 

DOCKET:  The remote Motions Day docket will be posted to this website two (2) business days prior to the Motions Day.  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).

Each judge will have a separate docket, and will include all cases assigned to that judge, for both the 10:00am docket and the 2:00 p.m. docket (if there is a 2:00 p.m. docket).

JULY 8, 2026  remote Motions Day hearings  (posted on 7/6/2026 at  9:00 a.m.)

Instructions.

1. MOTIONS DAY docket (refer to section 34-A) to determine which judge will hear each specific case.
2. DOWNLOAD MICROSOFT TEAMS software to your device prior to the remote hearing
   1. (MS Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com).
   2. Required if participating via Microsoft Teams (video and audio.
   3. Not required if participating by telephone call-in (audio only). 
3. MOTIONS DAY WILL BE CANCELED for inclement weather.  The Court’s inclement weather policy is posted to our website. The Court will be closed when the Alexandria City Government (not the Alexandria City Public Schools) is closed or when the City Government opens at 10:00 a.m. or later due to inclement weather. 

A.       10:00 a.m. docket - Meeting links and telephone call-in numbers with access codes

         (1)   JUDGE KATHLEEN M. USTON  - 10:00 A.M. DOCKET on JULY 8, 2026

                          (a)      JOIN ON YOUR COMPUTER, MOBILE APP, OR ROOM DEVICE 

                                   (Microsoft Teams software must be downloaded to your device prior to the meeting. MS Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com).

                                            Join: Join the meeting here

                                            Meeting ID: 246 954 059 002 593

                                             Passcode: DS7Qb98q

                                (b)     DIAL IN BY PHONE

                                               +1 703-719-4698,,348195617# United States, Alexandria

                                                Find a local number

                                               Phone conference ID: 348 195 617#

        (2)    JUDGE HEIDI E. MEINZER  - 10:00 A.M. DOCKET on JULY 8, 2026

                               (a)      JOIN ON YOUR COMPUTER, MOBILE APP, OR ROOM DEVICE 

                                   (Microsoft Teams software must be downloaded to your device prior to the meeting. MS Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com).

                                            Join: Join the meeting here

                                            Meeting ID: 219 683 431 925 384 

                                              Passcode: TR2ya7jk 

                                (b)     DIAL IN BY PHONE

                                         +1 703-719-4698,,985839025# United States, Alexandria 

                                          Find a local number 

                                           Phone conference ID: 985 839 025# 

B.   2:00 p.m. docket - No 2:00 p.m. docket on July 8, 2026

updated  6/4/2026

(1)   MOTIONS DAYS are GENERALLY on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month.  Exceptions are in May (if the Judicial Conference occurs on the 2nd Wednesday of the month) and holidays.  Refer to Paragraph (2) below for specific Motions Day dates and filing deadlines for each.  

(2)   UPCOMING MOTIONS DAY DATES and FILING DEADLINES

FILING DEADLINES  (posted 6/4/2026) Click on the link for 6/10/2026 through December 23, 2026 

UPCOMING MOTIONS DAY DATES

• July 8, 2026
• July 22, 2026
• August 12, 2026
• August 26, 2026
• September 9, 2026
• September 23, 2026
• October 14, 2026
• October 28, 2026
• November 4, 2026 (1st Wednesday of the month due to the 11/11/26 holiday)
• November 25, 2026     No 2:00pm docket on 11/25/2026
• December 9, 2026
• December 23, 2026     No 2:00pm docket on 12/23/2026 

updated  6/3/2026

Motions Day Guidance (updated 4/14/2026)  Click on this link for remote motions day guidance, including detailed instructions for all required procedures and documents.

1.   All remote motions day instructions must be followed. 

2.  A motion and Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026) must be filed to docket the motion for a specific remote motions day hearing. The Court strongly encourages use of the Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026) as it includes the following mandatory items:  remote hearing language;  space for the moving party to provide email addresses of the moving party (or counsel), the non-moving party (or counsel), and all interested parties; and the Rule 4:15(b) certification.  "I certify that I have in good faith conferred or attempted to confer with other affected parties in an effort to resolve the subject of the motion without Court action, pursuant to Rule 4:15(b) of the Rules of the Supreme Court of Virginia."

3. NEW   Page Limits and format guidance.  NEW effective with the 4/22/2026 Motions Day and thereafter.  All motions, memoranda, briefs, oppositions, etc. are required to be in 12-point font; double-spaced; on 8.5x11 inch paper and together cannot exceed 5-pages total. (For example, if the moving party files a motion and separate memorandum, the page limit is 5 pages together for both documents.) 

 4.   Filing Instructions:  (a) ORIGINALS (except evidence/exhibits) are filed in Room 307; copy provided to opposing party (or counsel); and (c) mandatory copy delivered to 4th floor drop box when the  Motions Day documents are filed.

 5.   Questions?  Call a judicial law clerk (staff attorney) in Judges' Chambers  at 703.746.4123 

Updated  1/23/2026

A.  Adult Name Change Packet  

1. Residency requirement. The person whose name is being changed must live in the City of Alexandria (not Fairfax County.  Fairfax County residents must apply for a name change at Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 (703.691.7320).
2. ADULT Name change packet has been prepared for pro se litigants (those persons without legal representation).
   1. The packet includes general instructions for Alexandria Circuit Court and sample documents (name change petition and name change order; both documents are fill-in-the-blank forms).
   2. Last update:  July 2014
   3. Free download   https://alexlibraryva.org/law-library  Scroll down to “Information Packets” on the lower left side of the webpage.
   4. Hard copy (for a fee)    Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Open 9:00am to 2:00pm)
3. All documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

B.   MINOR NAME CHANGE PACKET

1. Residency requirement. The person whose name is being changed must live in the City of Alexandria (not Fairfax County.  Fairfax County residents must apply for a name change at Fairfax County Circuit Court at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Fairfax, Virginia 22030 (703.691.7320).
2. Signatures of both parents are required on the
   1. Petition;  and
   2. Order.
3. MINOR CHILD Name change packet has been prepared for pro se litigants (those persons without legal representation).
   1. The packet includes general instructions for Alexandria Circuit Court and sample documents (name change petition and name change order; both documents are fill-in-the-blank forms).
   2. Last update:  November 2018
   3. Free download   https://alexlibraryva.org/law-library  Scroll down to “Information Packets” on the lower left side of the webpage.
   4. Hard copy (for a fee)    Alexandria Law Library  520 King Street,  Lower Level, Alexandria, VA 22314   (Open 9:00am to 2:00pm)

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

    

C.  COURT PERSONNEL CANNOT PROVIDE LEGAL ADVICE  

No one in the courthouse can provide legal advice or assistance in completing a document or form.

If you need additional assistance, you must seek legal counsel. 

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

updated 1/23/2026

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

B.    COPIES to Judges' Chambers are delivered to the 4th floor drop box. These copies are typically not entered (wait for the original to be received from the Clerk's office). Judges' Chambers does not accept emailed documents.

           1.  MOTIONS DAY - MANDATORY copies of all documents must be delivered to the 4th floor drop box

           2.  Courtesy copies of documents are optional.

Instructions

1. AGREED ORDERS OR FINAL DECREES. All agreed orders or Final Decrees require the signature of opposing counsel (or pro se litigant). Refer to "Signatures on Pleadings, Orders, Etc." section for additional guidance.
2. COMPETING ORDERS. After the hearing or trial has concluded, if counsel are unable to agree on the language of a proposed order regarding the judge's ruling, counsel shall submit opposing orders.  Each counsel files their order with their signature, and the judge will enter the appropriate order.
3. GENERAL RECEIVER DEPOSITS. Refer to “General Receiver Deposits” section of this website.
4. JUDGMENT ORDERS. All Judgment Orders shall specifically name the defendant(s) upon which the judgment is granted in the last paragraph of the order.
5. MOTIONS DAY - PROPOSED ORDERS. 

   1. Filing deadline: (preferred): When the remote Motions Day praecipe is filed. 

             (final deadline):  One week prior to the hearing date.

   2. All original documents are filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3.  MANDATORY copy shall be delivered to 4th floor drop box (emails are not accepted).
6. NONSUIT ORDER
   1. If a responsive pleading has been filed.  The nonsuit order shall state this is the first nonsuit and that no counterclaims, crossclaims, or third-party claims by an adverse party have been filed. Opposing counsel's signature shall be included on the proposed order.
   2. If the complaint has not been served or a responsive pleading has not been filed.  The nonsuit order shall state that this is the first nonsuit and that no counterclaims, crossclaims, or third-party claims by an adverse party have been filed, and that a responsive pleading has not been filed.  Plaintiff’s signature is the only signature required on the nonsuit order.

updated 4/4/2025

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

updated  1/23/2026

1. Pretrial conferences are MANDATORY for all divorce Equitable Distribution trials and any civil trial lasting more than two (2) days.

2. At the pretrial conference, counsel shall be prepared to discuss with the judge and opposing counsel: 

   outstanding issues, estimated length of trial, possibility of settlement; technology courtroom needed; remote witness testimony needed.  *Counsel may also email a court administrator to request a tech courtroom for a trial. 

3. Motions, including motions to continue, cannot be heard at a pretrial conference and shall be scheduled separately from the pretrial conference.
4. Time of the pretrial conference: Scheduled for 9:00 a.m. on a date certain approximately 4 to 6 weeks prior to the trial date. (The pretrial conference may be changed to an alternate specific time if held by call-in telephone conference call at the Judges' discretion; see information below).
5. Location of the pretrial conference:
   1. In-person pretrial conferences are held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314 (consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment).
   2. At the judge's discretion, a pretrial conference may be conducted by telephone conference call.
      1. Counsel and pro se litigants will receive an email approximately 4 weeks prior to the scheduled pretrial conference date.
      2. The email will include an assigned time and telephone call-in instructions for the pretrial conference.
      3. On the assigned date and time, all counsel and pro se litigants shall coordinate one telephone call, and then call Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123).
6. Attendance at pretrial conferences.  Only counsel and pro se litigants attend pretrial conferences.  Persons with legal representation do not attend pretrial conferences.

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

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

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

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

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

updated 3/2/2026

(Civil cases only) REMOTE TESTIMONY BY PARTY OR WITNESS USING THE COURT’S TECH CART WITH YOUR LAPTOP AND A MICROSOFT TEAMS MEETING LINK ISSUED BY YOU (not the Court)

Permission must be granted by a judge in advance of the trial or hearing.

Instructions:

1. (mandatory) MOTION REQUESTING REMOTE TESTIMONY. 
   1. The motion requesting remote testimony shall include
      1. the name of the person requesting remote testimony;
      2. the reason why the remote testimony is necessary;
      3. Opposing counsel’s position on the request (agreement or opposition) if possible; and
      4.  Certificate of Service including the date and method by which the Motion was provided to opposing counsel
   2. Filing deadline:  At least 15 days prior to the trial or hearing date.
   3. File the original document with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   4. Provide a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box; and

   5. Provide a MANDATORY copy to opposing counsel. 

       

2. (mandatory) ORDER REGARDING REMOTE TESTIMONY (Sample Order of Remote Testimony)

   1. The Order Regarding Remote Testimony shall include
      1. The name of the person who made the motion and who will be testifying remotely; and
      2.  A statement that “[a]ny oath administered to a party or witness testifying by means of audiovisual technology shall be deemed to have been administered within the Commonwealth”; and
      3. A statement that “the oath having been administered to [name of person]”; and
      4.  A statement that “[name of person], by taking the oath and testifying remotely before this Court, expressly agrees to be subject to the penalties of perjury under Virginia law and subject to court orders by the Virginia judge regarding the testimony, such as contempt of court powers, adjournment or rescheduling of testimony, and other orders relating to the testimony entered as though the witness was physically present in the Virginia courtroom”; and
      5. A statement  that “[name of person], by taking the oath and testifying remotely before this Court, consents to personal jurisdiction of the Virginia courts for enforcement of the perjury laws and orders relating to the testimony of the witness entered by the judge presiding over the trial.” 
   2. File the original document with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Provide a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box; and
   4. Provide a MANDATORY copy to opposing counsel. 

    

3.   (if any)  WRITTEN OPPOSITIONS. 
   1. Opposing counsel shall file written opposition (if any) within 5 days after service of such motion. 
   2. File original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
   3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

   4. Provide a copy to opposing counsel when the opposition is filed.

       

4.  (if permission is granted).  
   1. Counsel shall call the Clerk's office (703.746.4044) or Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to ask if the order was entered.
   2. Counsel shall refer to the "Technology in the Courtroom" section of this website to include the following:
   3. (mandatory training) Counsel shall take mandatory training in advance of the trial date to learn how to operate the Court's tech cart equipment.
   4. (tech cart reservation) Counsel shall call Courts IT at 703.746.4310 to reserve the Court's tech cart for the trial.
   5. (issue MS Teams meeting link) Counsel (or pro se litigant) shall issue the MS Teams meeting link. 
      1. The Court does not issue meeting links for remote witness testimony.
      2. The meeting invitation must include (a) name of case, docket number, and date/time of trial or hearing; (b) advise recipients to download the MS Teams application to their device prior to the meeting if needed; and (c) advise recipients that MS Teams is a free download available at www.microsoft.com.
      3. The meeting link must be received at least 2 business days prior to the trial date.
      4. The meeting invitation shall be sent to the person testifying remotely, opposing counsel, and the court administrators at CircuitCourtJudges@alexandriava.gov.
      5. Call 703.746.4123 with questions. 
   6. (bring laptop to trial).  Counsel shall bring their laptop to court on the trial date. The attorney will connect their laptop to the Court's tech cart, and then use the MS Teams meeting link to start the remote testimony at the appropriate time.

updated 1/23/2026

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

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

Instructions

1. Schedule settlement conference by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123. Counsel or pro se litigants shall be on the same telephone conference call to schedule the settlement conference.
   1. The settlement conference shall be scheduled far enough out to allow counsel to comply with the deadline for submitting brief factual statements (Deadline: 5 days prior to the settlement conference).
2. Brief factual statements from all parties shall be delivered to Judges' Chambers. The brief factual statement shall include the case from that party's viewpoint and a statement of the amount or conditions of the demands or offers.
   1. Deadline:  5 business days prior to the settlement conference.
   2. Delivery to the 4th floor drop box (not the Clerk's office)
3. Attend settlement conference.
   1. Attorneys only. Only counsel and pro se litigants attend the settlement conference.
   2. The client or authorized representative must be available by phone during the conference.
   3. All attorneys should come to the settlement conference with decision-making and settlement authority. 

 updated 2/19/2025

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

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

updated 1/23/2026

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

Instructions

1. The Selection of Trial Date is held with a court administrator in the 4th floor lobby on the date specified on the Notice of Appeal.
   1. Counsel may call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 prior to the Selection of Trial Date to schedule a trial date and avoid having to appear on the assigned date. This option is available only if opposing counsel or another interested party is NOT EXPECTED to appear at the selection of trial date hearing.
2. PROOF OF SERVICE. 
   1. Required by § 16.1-296 will be reviewed by the Court in advance of the trial date.
   2. Before scheduling the trial date on the Uncontested 9:00 am docket, counsel is advised that proof of service is required by § 16.1-296 and that the trial date should be scheduled far enough in advance to allow return of such service.  
   3. The proof of publication (if needed)
      1. Filing deadline: Seven (7) days prior to the trial date.
      2. Original shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
      3. Deliver a MANDATORY copy delivered to the 4th floor drop box.
   4. If service cannot be completed or waived by the trial date, the case will be removed from the docket, and counsel will be contacted regarding effectuating service.
3. SCHEDULE INTERPRETER if necessary for the SIJS hearing. Refer to the "Interpreter Services" section of this website.
4. FILE ADDITIONAL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS in the Clerk's office and deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box. Additional documents include
   1. Proof of Service (see above)
   2. Proof of Publication or signed waiver of service (see above)
   3. Notice of Hearing
   4. Final order
      1. Filing deadline: 7 days prior to the trial date.
5. ATTEND TRIAL.  The trial will be held in-person in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA  22314.  Consult the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.
6. COPIES OF ORDERS ENTERED AT HEARING (if any)  are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

STATEMENT OF FACTS

Refer to “Appeals” section.

updated 05/12/2026

(1)   status conference notice

 July 13, 2026  status conference (docket call) notice

All civil cases are scheduled for a status conference (docket call) to set a trial date if appropriate. Alexandria Circuit Court’s goal is to have all civil cases resolved within one year of the filing date (the case is ended when the final order is entered by a judge).

(2)   IF YOU RECEIVE A STATUS CONFERENCE (DOCKET CALL) NOTICE

         A.    If you have an attorney, give the notice to your attorney.

         B.     DO NOT COME TO COURT on the date of the status conference (docket call).  

         C.    TELEPHONE CALLS ONLY. Status conferences are held by telephone call with a court administrator only. 

                      CALL EARLY IF POSSIBLE.  You may call as early as possible. You do not need to wait until the day of the status conference/ or docket call.  Keep trying to call if the telephones are busy.

                         TELEPHONE NUMBER TO CALL.  703.746.4123

                        TELEPHONE HOURS  8:30am to 1:00pm, and 2:00pm to 4:00pm. 

(2)   SERVICE OF THE COMPLAINT 

Service of the complaint should be effected as soon as possible. The trial date cannot be scheduled until after the Defendant is served with the Complaint and has an opportunity to respond. Contact the Clerk's office to assistance in issuing service.  https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.

(3)  set a trial date IF APPROPRIATE

Alexandria Circuit Court’s goal is to have all civil cases resolved within one year of the filing date. A case is ended when a judge signs the final order. 

           1.    All counsel or pro se litigants shall call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call to schedule a trial date.

          2.   (file Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order).  Counsel and pro se litigants shall file a fully-endorsed Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order within two (2) weeks after scheduling a trial date. The order shall be filed with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. If the pretrial scheduling order is not filed in the Clerk's office within 2 weeks after setting a trial date, the Court will prepare and mail the order to all counsel and pro se litigants. 

(4)   Failure to respond to status conference (docket  call) notice 

Failure to respond to the Court's status conference notice by 1:00 p.m. on the date of the status conference (docket call) may result in the case being discontinued.  If a discontinuance order is signed by a judge, the case is removed from the active case docket and the case is ended.

updated  4/4/2025

(Option #1)     Uncontested settlement: Remote Motions Day hearing at 10:00 a.m. for entry of order

(Option #2)    Uncontested settlement: In-person hearing at 9:00 a.m. for entry of order

(Option #1)   uncontested STRUCTURED settlement: 

                         REmote Motions Day hearing at 10:00 a.m. 

updated 7/8/2026

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

     1. PREPARE AND FILE INITIATING DOCUMENTS 

            A.  Prepare initiating documents include

                    (1)  Application for approval of structured settlement

                    (2)  Notice of proposed transfer

                    (3)  Final order containing the statutory requirements for structured settlements. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional information. 

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

           C.  Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  

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

     2. SCHEDULE MOTIONS DAY HEARING

          A.    File a Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026) (with mandatory remote hearing language; space for email addresses of the moving party, the non-moving party and all interested parties; and the Rule 4:15(b) mandatory certification) prior to the deadline. Refer to the “Motions Day” sections of this website for instructions and filing deadlines.

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

         C.   Provide a copy to opposing counsel.

        D.   Deliver a MANDATORY Chambers’ copy to the 4th floor drop box. 

    3.  ATTEND THE REMOTE HEARING 

Counsel and the payee must attend the final hearing, unless good cause exists and a fully-endorsed waiver is filed with the Court. Use the MS Teams meeting link or telephone call-in number to attend the remote hearing. The court may enter the final order if appropriate (and if the proposed order was filed and a mandatory Chambers' copy delivered to the 4th floor drop box prior to the hearing).  

          A.   MOTIONS DAY LINK contains the Microsoft Teams meeting link (to participate with audio and video) and telephone call-in number (to participate with audio only)

          (1)  Issued by the Court two business days prior to the Motions Day date.

         (2)  Emailed to all persons whose email addresses were included on the remote Motions Day praecipe that counsel filed to docket the case for the Motions Day.

        (3)  Meeting links and telephone call-in number are posted to the Court's website

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

(Option #2)  Uncontested STRUCTURED settlement: 

                 In-person hearing at 9:00 a.m. for entry of order 

   1. PREPARE AND FILE INITIATING DOCUMENTS 

            A.  Prepare initiating documents include

                   (1)  Application for approval of structured settlement

                    (2)  Final order containing the statutory requirements for structured settlements. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional information. 

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

           C.  Deliver a mandatory copy to the 4th floor drop box.  

   2.   SCHEDULE THE UNCONTESTED 9:00 A.M. HEARING

            A.   Consult the "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket" section of this website for available dates and filing deadlines.

             B.  All of the following must be done prior to the filing deadline. Notices of hearing filed without calling a court administrator will not be docketed. (NOTE: The Clerk of Circuit Court does not schedule the case or forward the notice to Judges' Chambers.) 

                   (1)  Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to schedule the hearing. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

3.  FILE ALL REQUIRED DOCUMENTS  prior to the filing deadline 

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

          Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

        A.  NOTICE OF HEARING 

               (1)  Filing deadline:  Posted on this website at "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket")

        B.    NOTICE OF PROPOSED TRANSFER

                    (1)   Filing deadline:  Posted on this website at "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket")

         C.  FINAL ORDER. Refer to "General Receiver Deposits" section of this website for additional instructions.

                   (1)  iling deadline:  Posted on this website at "Uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket")

          C.   FILE GAL REPORT PRIOR TO THE HEARING

                       a.  Filing deadline:3 business days prior to the hearing date.

4.    ATTEND THE IN-PERSON HEARING. Counsel, interested parties, and the payee shall must attend the final hearing, unless good cause exists and a fully-endorsed waiver is filed with the Court. The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.

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

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.

Tech cart reservations and questions:  Call Courts IT at 703.746.4310.

Tech courtroom reservations: Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123.

Tech training: Call Courts IT at 703.746.4310.

A.    TECHNOLOGY  COURTROOMS FOR ELECTRONIC EVIDENCE PRESENTATION

 updated 3/27/2026

1. Circuit Court has 3 technology courtrooms to present evidence electronically. 
2. RESERVE  a tech courtroom by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123 (first-come, first-served basis).

3. ELECTRONIC EVIDENCE MEDIA 

   A.    (RECOMMENDED). All electronic evidence shall be on a digital media device such as thumb drive or external hard drive, which the Court will retain if the evidence is admitted at trial.

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

4. TRAINING prior to trial date. Mandatory training on the Court's equipment (electronic evidence presentation and tech cart) must be taken prior to the trial date. Training is offered on Thursday from 8:00am to 9:00am in Circuit Courtroom #1 on the 4th floor of the courthouse. Refer to Section B below for additional training guidance (what to bring to training, etc.).

5.  VIRUS SCANNING - device submitted at least one week prior if needed

       A. (Mandatory Scanning at least 1 week prior) If you do not bring your own laptop for presentation of electronic evidence at trial, all drives (thumb drives, external hard drives, cellular phones, etc.) shall be submitted to the 4th floor drop box at least one week prior to the trial date to allow time for the media to be reviewed, scanned for malware, and cleared. 

       B.  (Not required)  The Court's preference is that you bring your own laptop to connect to the Court's equipment to display the electronic evidence that is stored on your thumb drive or external hard drive (virus scanning is not required). 

6.   AT THE TRIAL. The previously-trained person is expected to operate the Court's equipment to present the electronic evidence without assistance. The previously-trained person should bring the same equipment (laptop, cables, etc.) that were used at the training session.

7.  AFTER THE TRIAL.  Evidence retained by the Court. If the electronic evidence is admitted during the trial, the digital media device will be marked as an exhibit and retained by the Court. 

B.    TECHNOLOGY TRAINING AND QUESTIONS 

         updated 2/18/2026

1. MANDATORY training on the Court’s electronic evidence presentation system and/or tech cart is held every Thursday from 8:00am to 9:00am in Circuit Courtroom 1 on the 4th floor of the courthouse. No reservations are necessary (report to Courtroom #1 on the 4th floor).
2. Bring to training: Your laptop, cables, digital media device, and electronic evidence (the same equipment you will use at trial).  The laptop should have Windows OS or Mac OS and a native HDMI port (or bring a HDMI dongle/converter).  
3. At the training: Courts IT staff will give instructions on how to use the Court's electronic evidence presentation system or tech cart equipment. Your laptop, cables and flash drive will be tested to ensure compatibility with the Court's equipment.

C.   REMOTE TESTIMONY BY PARTY OR WITNESS 

          Refer to separate section of this website.

updated  7/8/2026

1.   PURPOSE OF TERM DAY  is to select a trial date after proper service has been effected. Other set-date options include (a) counsel call a court administrator  at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone call; or (b) schedule a set-date motion for a Motions Day (refer to “Motions Day” sections for instructions).
2. WHEN ARE TERM DAY HEARINGS?  9:00 a.m. on the second Monday of the month in the following months: January, March, May, July, September, November. . If a Term Day falls on a holiday, the Term Day will be held the next day Court is open.  Refer to "Calendar" section of this website for specific Term Day dates.
3.  WHERE ARE THE TERM DAY HEARINGS?  Term Day hearings are held in the 4th floor lobby of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria, VA 22314.  Counsel and pro se litigants shall report at 9:00 a.m. 
4. FILING DEADLINE is the preceding Wednesday prior to the Term Day date.  If Wednesday is a holiday, the filing deadline is advanced by one day.

5. 2026 TERM DAY dates and filing deadlines

               Term Day                                           Filing Deadline

               July 13, 2026                                     Wednesday, 7/8

               September 14, 2026                          Wednesday, 9/9

               November 9, 2026                             Wednesday, 11/4

    Instructions

1. Prepare a Term Day Praecipe.
2. File the Term Day Praecipe with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.
3. Deliver a copy of the Term Day Praecipe to the 4th floor drop box.
4. Provide a copy of the Term Day Praecipe to opposing counsel or pro se litigants.  Instructions are on the Term Day praecipe.

5. Attend Term Day hearing

   (Option #1)   Prior to the Term Day - By telephone -  Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 together on the same telephone conference call prior to the Term Day date. After scheduling the trial date, file a fully completed and endorsed (signed) Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order with the Clerk's office (Room 307) within two (2) weeks after scheduling the trial date.

   or

   (Option #2)   On the date of the Term Day - in person - Appear at the Term Day hearing at 9:00 a.m. in the 4th floor lobby at 520 King Street   Alexandria, VA  22314 to select an agreed trial date.  After scheduling the trial date, sign the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order that is prepared by a court administrator.

    

updated 1/23/2026

There are 3 options for counsel or pro se litigants to schedule a trial date (or hearing date).

• (Option 1) Call Judges' Chambers together on the same telephone conference call
• (Option 2) remote Motions Day hearing at 10:00 a.m. for a set-date hearing. Motions Days are typically the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of the month.
• (Option 3) in-person Term Day hearing at 9:00 a.m.  Term Day is typically the 2nd Monday of the month and is held in the 4th floor lobby.

(option 1)   COUNSEL CallS Judges' Chambers together 

               on the same telephone conference call

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

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

2.  Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. 

   A.  (preferred method)   Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

          (1)  The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).

          (2)  The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

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

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

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

    

(option 2)  counsel SCHEDULEs a motions Day hearing 

                    to schedule a trial date 

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

1. Refer to the "Motions Day" sections of this website for Motions Day dates and deadlines, guidance, and the Motions Day Praecipe for Remote Hearings (updated 3-13-2026).

2.  Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. 

   A.  (preferred method)   Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

          (1)  The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).

          (2)  The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

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

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

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

(option 3)  counsel schedules a Term Day HEARING

               to select a trial date

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

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

2.  Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order.  After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. 

   A.  (preferred method)   Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

          (1)  The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).

          (2)  The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

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

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

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

updated 4/4/2025

Refer to individual sections of this website for additional guidance. Call Judges’ Chambers (703.746.4123) if you need additional instruction.

1.   TRIALS AND HEARINGS LOCATION

   A.   (in-person)  TRIALS AND HEARINGS 

              (1)  Are held in a courtroom at 520 King Street, 4th floor, Alexandria, VA 22314. Refer to the docket that is posted on the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.

              (2)  Totally remote trials are not allowed in Alexandria.

   B.  (remote)  MOTIONS DAY

             (1)  Motions Day hearings will continue to be held remotely until further notice. Refer to “Motions Day” sections of this website.

   C.  (by telephone)  STATUS CONFERENCE/DOCKET CALL

             (1)  By telephone calls only. 

             (2)  Refer to “Status Conference’ section of this website.

             (3)  Deadline for calling a court administrator in response to a status conference/docket call notice is 1:00 p.m. on the day of the status conference/docket call. 

    

2.   MOTIoNS - PRETRIAL

      A.   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. 

       B.  For last-minute motions to be heard on the day of trial (time limit: 5 minutes total).  The motion shall be heard for good cause only; and only if the motion was filed no later than two (2) business days prior to the trial date, with a MANDATORY Chambers’ copy delivered to the 4th floor drop box, AND counsel called Judges' Chambers (703.746.4123) to advise that the motion in limine was been filed and delivered to Judges' Chambers. 

3.  MISCELLANEOUS

        A.   Start Time is at 10:00 a.m. for contested matters unless otherwise approved by the Court.

        B.    Multiple day trials The subsequent day of a trial (Day 2, etc.) may start at 9:00 a.m.  at the judge’s discretion. Counsel and experts shall arrange their schedules accordingly.

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

Updated  5/15/2026

A.    cases on the uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket

          (1)  Alexandria Circuit Court holds an uncontested 9:00 a.m. docket on a Friday once or twice a month for an unlimited number of the following types of cases. 

                a.  Appointment of Guardian (uncontested only).  Refer to “Appointment of Guardians” section of this website for additional guidance.

                 b.  Divorces (uncontested only; oral testimony). Refer to “Divorces” section of this website for additional guidance.

                c.  Garnishments (uncontested).  May be scheduled on this docket only if the judgment debtor’s email address and/or telephone number are not   available and verifiable. Otherwise, the garnishment hearing shall be scheduled on a remote Motions Day (refer to “Motions Day” sections for guidance).

                d.  Infant settlements (uncontested).  Refer to “Infant Settlement” section of this website.

               e.  SIJS - Special Immigrant Juvenile Status appeals. Refer to “Special Immigrant Juvenile Status Appeals” and "Interpreter Services" section of this website. Counsel or the pro se litigant must arrange for an interpreter if necessary (Circuit Court does not arrange for an interpreter).

                f.  Wrongful death hearings. Refer to “Wrongful Death Hearings” section of this website.

          (2) The uncontested docket is on FRIDAYS, typically the same week as Motions Day (Motions Days are generally the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month). 

          (3)  Scroll down for specific hearing dates and scheduling/filing deadlines.

B.   UPCOMING DATES OF the UNCONTESTED 9:00 A.M. DOCKET

The scheduling and filing deadline is on the Thursday three (3) weeks prior to the hearing date (unless that date is a holiday, in which case the deadline is extended to the next business day).  Counsel shall call Judges' Chambers at 703.746.4123 prior to filing all of the required documents with the Clerk's office prior to the deadline.

              Uncontested 9:00am hearing date                        Filing/scheduling deadline

              July 10, 2026                                                         6/18/2026

              July 24, 2026                                                         7/2/2026

              August 14, 2026                                                     7/23/2026

              August 28, 2026                                                    8/6/2026

               September 11, 2026                                            8/20/2026

              September 25, 2026                                            9/3/2026

              October 16, 2026                                                 9/24/2026

              November 13, 2026                                             10/8/2026

               November 27, 2026                                     -- court closed; no hearings --

               December 11, 2026                                             11/19/2026

              December 25, 2026                                       -- court closed; no hearings --

              January 15, 2027                                                 12/23/2026 at 12:00pm (court closes at 12:00pm on 12/23/2026)

              January 29, 2027                                                 1/7/2027

              February 12, 2027                                                1/21/2027

              February 26, 2027                                                2/4/2027

              March 12, 2027                                                    2/18/2027

               March 26, 2027                                                   3/4/2027

C.   INSTRUCTIONS TO SCHEDULE A CASE FOR THE uncontested 9:00 A.M. DOCKET

All cases except for garnishments

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

       2.  CONFIRM CASE RECEIPT.  Call the Clerk's office 703.746.4044 to confirm the initiating paperwork has been received or the SIJS appeal paperwork has been received.

       3.  SCHEDULE CASE.   Steps A and B must be completed prior to the scheduling/filing deadline. 

              A.   SCHEDULE the case by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123.

              B.    FILE MANDATORY DOCUMENTS to include, but are not limited to,

                      (1)  Notice of hearing date

                      (2)  Final order

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

              D.    Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

        4.    FILE GAL report (if necessary). 

               A.  Filing deadline: 3 business days prior to the hearing date.

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

               C.  Deliver a copy to the 4th floor drop box.

       5.   ATTEND THE HEARING.  The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.

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

Garnishment cases (in-person return hearings)

       1.    SCHEDULE CASE.  Steps A through D must be completed prior to the scheduling/filing deadline.

              A.   SCHEDULE the case by calling a court administrator at 703.746.4123.

              B.   FILE MANDATORY DOCUMENTS, including but not limited to the following.

                      (1)  Garnishment request

                      (2)  Notice of hearing date

                      (3)   Final order. 

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

             D.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

       5.   ATTEND THE HEARING.  The in-person hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street, Alexandria VA 22314. Refer to the 4th floor bulletin board for courtroom assignment.

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

Updated 4/4/2025

Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order   (updated Nov 2019) 

1. After selecting a trial date (by any method), a Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order shall be filed with the Clerk of Court within two weeks. 

   A.  (preferred method)   Counsel prepares the Uniform Pretrial Scheduling Order, signs the order and forwards the order to opposing counsel or pro se litigant.

          (1)  The order includes the dates of the trial and the pretrial conference (if any).

          (2)  The order states if the trial is jury or non-jury.

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

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

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

    

Updated 4/4/2025

(#1)   Wrongful Death Order entered without a hearing

(#2)  Remote Motions Day hearing at 10:00 a.m. 

(#3)   In-Person hearing at 9:00 a.m. 

(OPTION #1)   WRONGFUL DEATH 

           FINAL ORDER ENTERED WITHOUT A HEARING 

Instructions

1.   Prepare all required documents to include

           A.   PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLMENT

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

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

           D.   GAL REPORT

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

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

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

4.    DOCUMENT REVIEW by the Court

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

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

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

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

(OPTION #2)  WRONGFUL DEATH HEARING

          FINAL ORDER ENTERED AT REMOTE MOTIONS DAY HEARING

           at 10:00 a.m.

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

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

Instructions

1.   Prepare required documents

          A.   PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLEMENT 

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

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

          D.  MOTIONS DAY PRAECIPE FOR REMOTE HEARINGS (updated 3-13-2026).  The Court strongly encourages use of the Remote Motions Day praecipe which includes the mandatory remote hearing language and space for the moving party to include the required email addresses of the moving party, the non-moving party and all interested parties. 

2.    File the original documents with the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt. 
3.    Deliver a MANDATORY copy of all documents to the 4th floor drop box.

4.    File GAL REPORT by the filing deadline: 3 days prior to the Motions Day

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

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

5.  ATTEND THE REMOTE HEARING on a Motions Day (2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month; except in May when the schedule may change. Refer to the "Calendar" section of this website.)

           A.  MOTIONS DAY LINK contains the Microsoft Teams meeting link (to participate with audio and video) and telephone call-in number (to participate with audio only)

           B.   Issued by the Court two business days prior to the Motions Day date.

           C.  Emailed to all persons whose email addresses were included on the remote Motions Day praecipe that counsel filed to docket the case for the Motions Day.

          D.  Meeting links and telephone call-in number are posted to the Court's website.

          E.  The Court calls the case in the courtroom.

          F.  The final order may be entered by a judge during the hearing. 

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

(OPTION #3)   WRONGFUL DEATH HEARING

                IN-PERSON HEARING ON THE UNCONTESTED 9:00 a.m. DOCKET 

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

Instructions

      A.   Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to schedule the hearing. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm.

 1.   Prepare required documents

       A.   PETITION SEEKING APPROVAL OF WRONGFUL DEATH SETTLEMENT 

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

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

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

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

4    SCHEDULE HEARING.  Items A-B must be done prior to the filing deadline. Notices of hearing filed without calling a court administrator will not be docketed. (NOTE: The Clerk of Circuit Court does not schedule the case or forward the notice to Judges' Chambers.) 

       A. Call a court administrator at 703.746.4123 to schedule the hearing. Telephones are answered from 8:30am to 1:00pm, and from 2:00pm to 4:00pm. Hearing dates and filing deadlines are posted to this website at "Uncontested 9:00am docket".

       B.  File all remaining documents

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

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

               (3)  Deliver a MANDATORY copy to the 4th floor drop box.

5.   File GAL REPORT by the filing deadline: 3 days prior to the hearing date.

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

        B.   Deliver a MANDATORY copy  to the 4th floor drop box.

6.    ATTEND  IN-PERSON HEARING. All interested parties attend the in-person hearing. The hearing will be held in a courtroom on the 4th floor of the courthouse at 520 King Street  Alexandria VA  22314.  Please check the 4th floor bulletin board for the courtroom assignment.

7.  Copies of orders entered at the hearing are available from the Clerk of Circuit Court. Refer to https://www.alexandriava.gov/ClerkofCourt.