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Bill

HR 389

Judges; nominations for election to circuit court.

2026 Regular Session Introduced by Michelle Maldonado

HR 389 establishes nomination procedures for Virginia circuit court judge elections, shifting from the current legislative appointment system to an electoral selection method.

Presented, ordered printed (HR389)
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Bill Summary · HR 389

Legislative bill overview

HR 389 proposes a mechanism for nominating judges to Virginia's circuit courts through an electoral process. The bill establishes procedures for how candidates can be nominated and selected for these judicial positions, representing a change to Virginia's current judicial selection system.

Why is this important

Judicial selection methods significantly affect court independence, accountability, and the composition of the bench. How judges are chosen—whether through appointment, election, or nomination—influences their responsiveness to the public versus insulation from political pressure, and can impact access to justice and case outcomes across the state.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial independence vs. accountability: Election-based nomination systems may increase political pressure on judges, potentially compromising impartial decision-making, while critics argue appointed systems lack democratic accountability
  • Current system disruption: Virginia currently uses a legislative appointment process; switching to nominations for election represents a substantial structural change that would affect current judicial retention and recruitment
  • Access and diversity: Nomination and election systems can either expand or restrict the pool of qualified candidates, with implications for whether the judiciary reflects the communities it serves

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

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