Henrico County
Henrico County is located in central Virginia. It is one of the oldest counties in the United States, dating back to 1617. Henrico covers approximately 233.7 square miles and has a population of about 333,120 residents as of 2022. The county is known for a growing economy centered around healthcare, education, and retail. Henrico County does not have an incorporated community; hence, there is no incorporated county seat. However, Laurel, an unincorporated Census Designated Place, serves the function. Henrico County's court system is part of Virginia's Judicial System, consisting of the Circuit Court, General District Court, and Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court.
The Circuit Court has general jurisdiction overseeing felony criminal cases, lesser-included criminal offenses charged through indictment ruled by a grand jury, most civil claims over $25,000, family law matters like divorce and child custody, adoption, property disputes, emergency protection orders, and probate issues. The General District Court has limited jurisdiction over misdemeanors, traffic violations, and civil claims not exceeding $25,000. It also oversees preliminary hearings for felony cases.
The Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Court deals with family-related matters, such as child custody and support, spousal support, domestic violence, parental rights termination, and juvenile delinquency cases. It also exercises jurisdiction over traffic offenses, cases for mental health that include minors, emancipation, the consent for children to have specific medical procedures, and protective orders.
Public court records in Henrico County are generated through various judicial activities such as court filing, rulings, orders, plea details, and transcripts of hearings within the county. They are maintained by the Clerk of the Circuit Court and are available for public viewing under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act (FOIA). Common records include:
- Criminal Records
- Civil Records
- Family Records
- Probate Records
- Traffic Records
Certain records, such as juvenile and domestic abuse records, are deemed confidential and exempt from public disclosure. Court records can be accessed online through the Virginia Judiciary's case search system using various search criteria. Individuals can also request records and docket details in person by visiting the Clerk's office at:
Henrico County Clerk of Circuit Court
4309 E. Parham Road
Henrico, VA 23228
Phone: (804) 501-4202
Copy fees may apply for physical or certified court records, while confidential records are only accessible to authorized individuals or by court order.
