Virginia law outlines the appointment and supervision of magistrates, including the appointment process, regional organization, and restrictions based on criminal history. The Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court oversees appointments and has supervisory authority. Candidates must submit fingerprints for criminal background checks, and individuals with felony convictions are ineligible for appointment.
Magistrates are appointed by the Executive Secretary of the Supreme Court of Virginia in consultation with chief judges of the circuit courts within the region.
Applicants must submit fingerprints for criminal background checks and must not have a felony conviction to be eligible for appointment.
No, individuals with a felony conviction are ineligible for appointment as a magistrate in Virginia.
The Executive Secretary has full supervisory authority over appointed magistrates and oversees their appointment process.