Virginia law specifies that magistrates designated as marriage celebrants cannot accept fees or gratuities for performing marriages. It also outlines the probationary period, training, certification requirements, and compensation details for magistrates. Magistrates serve at the pleasure of the Executive Secretary and have specific rules regarding their appointment and benefits.
No, magistrates designated as marriage celebrants cannot accept any fee, gratuity, or other compensation for performing marriage ceremonies.
New magistrates serve a nine-month probationary period during which they must complete training and pass a certification exam.
Magistrates are entitled to compensation and benefits only from the time they officially take office, not during training or probation.
If a magistrate fails the exam, they cannot serve beyond the nine-month probationary period and must reapply or requalify to continue serving.