Virginia Code §§ 19.2-5 and 19.2-6 define key legal terms and outline the appointment powers of circuit courts. The law clarifies who is considered a judge and how appointment decisions are made, including procedures for tie votes and specific provisions for certain counties.
In Virginia law, 'court' refers to any court with proper jurisdiction under the state's constitution and laws.
A 'judge' includes any judge, associate judge, substitute judge, or magistrate serving in a court.
Appointment powers are exercised by a majority of circuit judges; in case of a tie, the Chief Justice appoints a judge from another circuit to break the tie.
Yes, in these counties, local judges can exercise appointment powers as if they were the majority of the circuit judges for local posts.