Virginia's Title 19.2-239 establishes that circuit courts have exclusive original jurisdiction to try criminal cases, including indictments and informations, for offenses committed within their circuits. Exceptions are made only where specified by law. This law ensures that criminal trials are conducted within the appropriate jurisdiction.
Virginia circuit courts have jurisdiction over all criminal cases, including presentments, indictments, and informations for offenses committed within their circuits.
Exceptions may exist where otherwise provided by law, but generally, circuit courts have exclusive jurisdiction for criminal cases within their circuits.
Typically, criminal cases are tried in the circuit court of the circuit where the offense was committed, unless a legal exception applies.
It means that only the circuit courts have the authority to initially hear and try criminal cases within their jurisdiction, without interference from other courts.