Petersburg Circuit Court Case Information gives people clear details about civil cases, schedules, fees, and how to get court records. The court handles important matters like contract disputes, personal injury claims, and real property cases. All hearings are set by the Court Administrator’s office on the fifth floor at 7 Courthouse Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803. The office is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. You can call (804) 733-2423 or use the protected email link on the official website. If you need to change a court date or settle a case, you must file a written motion with the Clerk’s office. Include a detailed reason, supporting documents, and the exact case number. The judge reviews each request and sends a written order within five business days. Court starts at 9:00 a.m. with a 15-minute grace period. A public spreadsheet with trial dates is posted online every morning at 7:30 a.m. Out-of-state parties can join by video link. Everyone must show a photo ID at the security checkpoint.
How to Schedule or Change a Civil Hearing
To schedule a civil hearing in Petersburg Circuit Court, contact the Court Administrator’s office during business hours. You can visit in person, call (804) 733-2423, or use the secure email form on the official Virginia courts site. For cases already filed, hearings are set during term days. The court holds civil terms on the third Thursday of each month. In 2025, those dates are January 16, February 20, March 20, April 17, and May 15. If you need to delay a hearing, file a written motion for a continuance. Include your case number, a clear reason for the delay, and any supporting documents like medical notes or travel receipts. The judge must approve all changes. Opposing parties get 48 hours to respond. The court sends a written order by mail or email. Late requests may not be accepted. Always check the daily docket online before coming to court.
Filing Fees and Online Payment Options
The Petersburg Circuit Court accepts online payments through the Virginia Judicial System portal at www.vacourts.gov. You can pay with a credit or debit card. Filing fees are $50 for small claims, $150 for civil cases, and $75 for motions. When paying, enter the exact case number. The system sends a confirmation email with a receipt and transaction ID right away. If you cannot pay the full amount, the Finance Division offers payment plans. Call (804) 733-6000 to apply. You must fill out an income-verification form, sign a repayment agreement, and pay at least $25 per month. Payments are recorded in the court ledger within 24 hours. Missed payments may result in a bench warrant or case dismissal. Always keep your receipt as proof of payment.
How to Get Certified Copies of Court Records
To get a certified copy of a case file, submit Form R-202 to the Clerk’s office. You can download the form from the court website or pick it up in person. Bring a government-issued photo ID and pay $10 per page. Payment can be made by money order or credit card. The clerk processes requests in three to five business days. Certified copies are mailed or available for pickup. The Clerk’s office is at 7 Courthouse Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803. Call (804) 733-2367 or fax (804) 732-5548 for questions. Records include case files, orders, and judgments. Some documents may be sealed by law. If you need records for legal use, certified copies are required. Uncertified copies are not valid for official purposes.
Term Calendar and Court Schedule
The Petersburg Circuit Court follows a set term calendar. Criminal and civil terms both begin on the third Thursday of each month. In 2025, term days are January 16, February 20, March 20, April 17, and May 15. Grand juries meet on the first day of each criminal term and serve for two weeks. Criminal cases are set for trial on term day. Civil cases are scheduled after a pre-trial conference, which must happen at least 30 days before trial. The court opens at 9:00 a.m. for all terms. Chambers staff gives printed schedules to attorneys on the first Monday of each month. The daily docket is posted online at 7:30 a.m. each day. Contested civil cases are sometimes held off-site at the Petersburg Community Center, 202 West Washington Street. No civil docket is held on the fifth day of any month for staff processing.
Remote Appearances and Video Conferencing
Out-of-state parties can appear in Petersburg Circuit Court by video link. The court provides a secure video-conference connection for remote hearings. You must request this option in advance by filing a motion with the Clerk’s office. Include your case number and reason for remote appearance. The judge must approve the request. Once approved, you will receive a link by email. Test your equipment before the hearing. Join the meeting 15 minutes early. All participants must show a photo ID on camera. The court records video hearings. If the connection fails, the hearing may be rescheduled. Remote appearances are not allowed for all case types. Check with the Court Administrator to confirm eligibility.
Case Management System for Attorneys
Attorneys use the Virginia Circuit Court Judicial Information System (CJIS) to manage cases. This online platform is available in 75 circuit courts, including Petersburg. Lawyers log in with a court-issued username and password. They can enter case details, view docket entries, and receive email alerts for new filings. Searches are limited to the local court database. Statewide searches are not allowed for privacy reasons. The system updates in real time. All motions, orders, and hearings are recorded instantly. A backup server at ewsocis1.courts.state.va.us ensures access during maintenance. Maintenance occurs on the third Saturday of each month from 2:00 a.m. to 4:00 a.m. The backup server uses two-factor authentication and encrypted data. Attorneys must keep login details secure.
Public Access to Case Information Online
The Virginia Judicial System offers free online access to case information. Visit www.vacourts.gov/caseinfo to search civil, criminal, and traffic cases. You can search by party name, case number, or hearing date. Results show the case status, next court date, and any fees owed. The site also lets you pay traffic tickets online. Fines start at $25. A civil filing fee calculator applies discounts for seniors and veterans when valid ID numbers are entered. Payments generate a PDF receipt. The system does not show sealed or juvenile records. For full case files, you must request certified copies from the Clerk’s office. The online portal is updated daily. It is the fastest way to check case progress without visiting the courthouse.
Continuance Policy and Required Documents
A continuance is a request to delay a court hearing. In Petersburg Circuit Court, judges only grant continuances for unavoidable hardships. You must file a written motion with the Clerk’s office. Include a notarized affidavit explaining why you cannot attend. Examples include serious illness, military duty, or natural disasters. The opposing party must receive a copy and has 48 hours to respond. The judge reviews all materials and issues a written order. Do not assume your request is approved. Check the docket or call the Clerk’s office. Filing a continuance does not stop court deadlines. Missing a hearing without approval can lead to a default judgment or bench warrant. Always keep proof of your filing.
Security and Visitor Requirements
All visitors to the Petersburg Circuit Court must pass through a security checkpoint. Bring a valid government-issued photo ID such as a driver’s license, passport, or state ID. Bags are screened. Weapons, including pocket knives, are not allowed. Cell phones are permitted but must be silenced in the courtroom. Food and drinks are not allowed inside. Dress respectfully. Children must be supervised. The courthouse is located at 7 Courthouse Avenue, near Petersburg City Hall and U.S. Route 1. Parking is available on nearby streets and public lots. Arrive 30 minutes early for security screening. Late arrivals may miss their hearing. The court is open to the public, but some hearings are closed by law.
Contact Information and Office Hours
The Petersburg Circuit Court is open Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The Court Administrator’s office handles scheduling and can be reached at (804) 733-2423. The Clerk’s office manages filings and records at (804) 733-2367. Fax documents to (804) 732-5548. For payment plans, call the Finance Division at (804) 733-6000. All offices are closed on federal holidays. Mailing address: 7 Courthouse Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803. For online services, visit www.vacourts.gov. The official city court page is at www.petersburgva.gov/346/Circuit-Court. Use the protected email form on the site for secure communication. Do not send sensitive information by regular email.
Common Civil Case Types Handled
The Petersburg Circuit Court hears many types of civil cases. These include contract disputes, where one party fails to honor an agreement. Personal injury claims involve injuries from accidents or negligence. Real property litigation covers land, home, or boundary disputes. Other cases include debt collection, injunctions, and name changes. Small claims under $5,000 are filed here but handled differently. Each case type has specific filing rules and fees. Always check the court website or call the Clerk’s office before filing. Missing a deadline or form can delay your case. The court does not give legal advice. Consult an attorney if needed.
How to Prepare for Your Court Appearance
Before going to court, gather all documents related to your case. Bring copies of contracts, medical bills, photos, or correspondence. Organize them in a folder. Dress in clean, respectful clothing. Arrive 30 minutes early for security. Check the daily docket online to confirm your hearing time. Bring your case number and photo ID. If you have witnesses, make sure they come too. Turn off your phone or set it to silent. Listen carefully to the judge and follow all instructions. Speak clearly and only when asked. Do not interrupt others. If you do not understand something, ask the clerk or judge politely. Leaving early without permission may result in a default judgment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Petersburg Circuit Court Case Information
Many people have questions about how the Petersburg Circuit Court works. Below are answers to common concerns. These cover scheduling, fees, records, and procedures. The information is based on official court policies and the latest updates from 2025. Always verify details with the court before taking action. Rules can change. This section helps you understand your rights and responsibilities as a party in a civil case.
How do I find out when my civil case is scheduled?
You can check your case schedule by visiting the Virginia Judicial System case information portal at www.vacourts.gov/caseinfo. Search using your name, case number, or hearing date. The daily docket is posted online at 7:30 a.m. each day. You can also call the Court Administrator’s office at (804) 733-2423 during business hours. Have your case number ready. The court sends notices by mail, but it is your responsibility to confirm dates. Missing a hearing can lead to a default judgment. If you move, update your address with the Clerk’s office right away. The court is not responsible for undelivered mail.
Can I pay court fees in installments?
Yes, the Petersburg Circuit Court offers payment plans for people who cannot pay fees upfront. Contact the Finance Division at (804) 733-6000. You must complete an income-verification form and sign a repayment agreement. The minimum monthly payment is $25. Payments are due on the same date each month. Late payments may result in penalties or a bench warrant. The court accepts money orders, cashier’s checks, or credit cards. Online payments are not available for installment plans. Keep all receipts. Once the balance is paid, the court sends a clearance letter. This can be used to reopen a case or clear a record.
How long does it take to get certified court records?
Certified copies of court records take three to five business days to process. Submit Form R-202 to the Clerk’s office with a photo ID and $10 per page fee. Payment can be made by money order or credit card. The clerk reviews your request and retrieves the file from storage. If the case is recent, it may be faster. Older cases may take longer. You will be notified when the records are ready. They can be mailed or picked up in person. Rush service is not available. Certified copies are required for legal use, such as appeals or background checks. Uncertified prints from the website are not valid.
What happens if I miss my court date?
If you miss your court date without approval, the judge may issue a default judgment against you. This means the other party wins automatically. In criminal cases, a bench warrant may be issued for your arrest. To avoid this, file a continuance request before the hearing. Include a valid reason and supporting documents. If you miss the hearing by accident, contact the Clerk’s office immediately. The judge may reopen the case if you have a good reason. However, there is no guarantee. Always confirm your hearing time and arrive early. Set reminders on your phone or calendar.
Can I attend a hearing by phone or video?
Yes, out-of-state parties can request a video-conference appearance. File a written motion with the Clerk’s office. Explain why you cannot attend in person. The judge must approve the request. If granted, you will receive a secure video link by email. Test your equipment before the hearing. Join 15 minutes early. Show your photo ID on camera. The hearing will be recorded. If the connection fails, the court may reschedule. Phone appearances are rarely allowed. Video is preferred for better communication. Remote options are not available for all case types. Check with the Court Administrator first.
Where is the Petersburg Circuit Court located?
The Petersburg Circuit Court is at 7 Courthouse Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803. It is next to Petersburg City Hall, just off U.S. Route 1. The building has a security checkpoint at the entrance. Parking is available on nearby streets and public lots. The Court Administrator’s office is on the fifth floor. The Clerk’s office is on the first floor. Office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. The court is closed on federal holidays. For directions, use GPS or visit the official city website. Public transportation options include local bus routes. Plan to arrive early for parking and security.
How do I file a motion in my civil case?
To file a motion, write a clear statement explaining what you want the court to do. Include your case number, full names of all parties, and the reason for the motion. Attach any supporting documents like affidavits or receipts. File the original with the Clerk’s office. Pay the $75 filing fee online or in person. Keep a copy for your records. Serve a copy to the other party by mail or hand delivery. File a certificate of service with the court. The judge reviews motions within five business days. You will receive a written order by mail or email. Do not assume your motion is granted. Check the docket or call the clerk.
Official Website: https://www.vacourts.gov/courts/circuit/Petersburg/home.html
Phone: (804) 733-2423 (Court Administrator), (804) 733-2367 (Clerk’s Office)
Address: 7 Courthouse Avenue, Petersburg, VA 23803
Visiting Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.