Virginia law specifies that traffic infractions tried in district court are decided without a jury, but defendants have the right to a jury trial in circuit court. It also details procedures for cases where defendants fail to appear and outlines rules for felony trials, including defendant presence and plea procedures. The law clarifies that other criminal trials follow the general provisions of Title 8.01 unless otherwise specified.
No, traffic infractions tried in district court are decided without a jury, but if appealed to a circuit court, you have the right to a jury trial.
Failure to appear is deemed a waiver of court hearing, and the case may be heard in your absence without a warrant for your failure to appear.
Yes, defendants tried for a felony must be personally present during the trial, unless the court enters a plea of not guilty if they are absent.
Virginia trials follow the provisions of Title 8.01 for jury procedures unless specified otherwise in the criminal procedure laws.