Juvenile & Domestic Court

21st Judicial District of Virginia

In Virginia, a juvenile is any person under 18 years of age. The juvenile and domestic relations district court hears all matters involving juveniles such as criminal or traffic matters. Juvenile delinquency cases are cases involving a minor under the age of 18 who has been accused of committing an offense that would be considered criminal if committed by an adult. Other juvenile offenses may be referred to as status offenses. Status offenses are those acts that are unlawful only because they are committed by a minor.

In addition, this court handles other matters involving the family such as custody, support and visitation. The court also hears family abuse cases, cases where adults have been accused of child abuse or neglect, and criminal cases where the defendant and alleged victim are family or household members.

There is a juvenile and domestic relations district court in each city and county. The judges of the juvenile and domestic relations district court are elected by the General Assembly for 6 year terms.

Continuance Policy

Continuances granted by Judge.

Court Schedule

• Civil Support - Tuesdays, 9 am to noon
• Custody, Visitation, and Support Matters - Tuesdays, 2 to 3 pm / 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Fridays, 9 am to noon
• Adult and Juvenile Arraignment Hearings - Tuesdays, 3 pm / Juvenile Traffic - Wednesdays, 8:30 am
• Adult Criminal - Wednesday, 9 am to 11 am
• Juvenile Criminal - Wednesdays, 11 am to 5 pm

Emergency hearings can be held at any available time.