Warrants/Civil Process

Deputies assigned to Courthouse security are responsible for its courtrooms and environs, including General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court, and the Circuit Court. There can be as many as four courts in session at the same time with up to eight or more bailiffs (deputies) working the courts. The courts are in session five days a week. The bailiffs are responsible for the security and safety of all court personnel, judges, witnesses, inmates, victims, and spectators during a criminal or civil trial.

Civil Process Deputies are responsible for conducting sheriff’s sales generated by court actions, and service of civil documents issued by the court, including civil, criminal, witness subpoenas, divorce actions, child support, custody petitions, evictions, warrants in debt, and juvenile petitions. They also serve most juvenile arrest orders and mental health detention orders, which may require transporting individuals to facilities anywhere in Virginia.

Courthouse Security

All Courthouse visitors must go through security screening when entering the courthouse. Observe the following rules when visiting court offices for criminal and civil cases, and to obtain marriage licenses, land records, deeds, genealogical research, and other purposes. The Sheriff's Office and court personnel do not have storage to keep personal items during your visit. So, leave anything listed below in your vehicle or with another person not entering the courthouse.

Items that are not permitted include:

• Cell phones
• Smart watches
• Electronics, including cameras
• Any items that can be used as a weapon, such as
  • Knives
  • Pepper spray or mace
  • Scissors
  • Box cutters
  • Lighters