WeVote
Log In

Bill

Bill

SB 793

Court of Appeals of Virginia; increases maximum number of judges, hearings en banc.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Scott Surovell

SB 793 expands Virginia's Court of Appeals by increasing maximum judgeships and broadening en banc hearing eligibility to manage appellate caseload demands.

Reported from Courts of Justice with substitute and rereferred to Finance and Appropriations (9-Y 6-N)
0
WeVote Research Nonpartisan
Bill Summary · SB 793

Legislative bill overview

SB 793 increases the maximum number of judges on Virginia's Court of Appeals and expands the circumstances under which the court can hear cases en banc (with all judges present). The bill aims to address caseload pressures and potentially improve judicial efficiency in Virginia's intermediate appellate court.

Why is this important

Virginia's Court of Appeals handles thousands of appeals annually, and increasing judicial capacity could reduce case backlogs and decision timelines for litigants. However, this expansion carries fiscal implications—the Department of Planning and Budget issued a fiscal impact statement—and raises questions about court operations and budget sustainability.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost and funding: Expanding the bench requires salaries, staff, and operational expenses; the committee's split vote (9-Y, 6-N) suggests disagreement over fiscal prudence
  • Judicial workload justification: Whether current caseload truly necessitates expansion or if procedural reforms could address delays more efficiently
  • En banc hearing standards: Determining when full-court hearings are appropriate versus three-judge panels, which could affect case consistency and court resources

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

Sign in to ask a question.