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Bill

HB 2162

Substitute judge of a district court; per diem compensation.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by Betsy Carr and 2 co-sponsors

Virginia adjusts substitute district judge per diem compensation effective July 1, 2025, to modify temporary judicial pay rates.

Acts of Assembly Chapter text (CHAP0249)
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Bill Summary · HB 2162

Legislative bill overview

HB 2162 modifies the per diem compensation structure for substitute judges serving in Virginia district courts. The bill adjusts how substitute judges are paid for their judicial duties, becoming effective July 1, 2025. This legislation was sponsored by bipartisan lawmakers and has already been signed into law.

Why is this important

Substitute judges fill critical gaps in the judicial system when regular judges are unavailable, ensuring courts can continue operating. Compensation adjustments directly affect the pool of qualified attorneys willing to serve in these temporary positions, which impacts court scheduling efficiency and access to justice. Changes to judicial pay also have budgetary implications for state and local governments administering district courts.

Potential points of contention

  • Judicial compensation precedent: Any change to judge pay can trigger concerns about maintaining competitive salaries across all judicial positions and avoiding a two-tiered compensation system
  • Budget impact: Increased per diem rates would increase state/local court system costs, potentially affecting other judicial funding priorities
  • Fairness questions: Whether substitute judges should receive compensation comparable to permanent judges for equivalent work, or whether their temporary status justifies different pay structures

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

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