Virginia Constitution ARTICLE VI - Judiciary
Virginia Constitution – Article VI: Judiciary
Article VI of the Virginia Constitution outlines the structure, powers, and responsibilities of the judicial branch of Virginia's government. Here is a summary of the key sections and provisions:
Section 1: Judicial Power
The judicial power is vested in a unified court system comprising:
The Supreme Court of Virginia
The Court of Appeals
The Circuit Courts
The District Courts
The General Assembly may establish additional courts as needed.
Section 2: Supreme Court
The Supreme Court is the court of last resort in Virginia.
It consists of 7 justices, elected by the General Assembly.
The Chief Justice is selected by the justices of the Court.
The Supreme Court has:
Appellate jurisdiction
Authority to issue writs (e.g., habeas corpus, mandamus)
Original jurisdiction in limited cases (e.g., disciplinary proceedings against judges and attorneys).
Section 3: Court of Appeals
The Court of Appeals hears appeals from:
Circuit Courts
State administrative agencies
Final decisions of certain state bodies
It helps reduce the case burden on the Supreme Court.
Section 4: Circuit Courts
Circuit Courts are trial courts of general jurisdiction.
They hear felony cases, civil cases over a certain amount, and appeals from District Courts.
Section 5: District Courts
District Courts include:
General District Courts (for misdemeanors, traffic violations, civil cases under a limit)
Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Courts
Judges are elected by the General Assembly for fixed terms.
Section 6: Judicial Appointments and Terms
Judges of all courts are elected by the General Assembly for set terms:
Supreme Court: 12 years
Court of Appeals and Circuit Courts: 8 years
District Courts: 6 years
Judges may be reappointed.
There are provisions for the temporary appointment of judges if vacancies occur.
Section 7: Removal and Discipline
Judges can be removed or disciplined for:
Misconduct
Failure to perform duties
Conviction of crimes
This is handled by the Judicial Inquiry and Review Commission and reviewed by the Supreme Court.
Section 8: Rules of Practice and Procedure
The Supreme Court has the authority to make rules governing court procedures, subject to modification or annulment by the General Assembly.
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