Roanoke County Court Records
What Is Roanoke County Court Records
Court records in Roanoke County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute a comprehensive repository of judicial activities as defined under the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. Court records typically include case files, dockets, pleadings, motions, orders, judgments, transcripts, exhibits, and sentencing records.
Court records are distinct from other public records maintained by Roanoke County, such as:
- Property records (deeds, liens, assessments)
- Vital records (birth, death, marriage certificates)
- Tax records
- Voting and election records
In Roanoke County, court records are maintained by several judicial bodies pursuant to § 16.1-69.54 of the Code of Virginia, which establishes record-keeping requirements for courts. These courts include:
- Circuit Court
- General District Court
- Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
The scope of these records encompasses various case types including civil litigation, criminal proceedings, family law matters, probate cases, traffic violations, and small claims. The Roanoke County Circuit Court Clerk's Office serves as the primary custodian for many of these records, particularly those pertaining to felony criminal cases, civil matters exceeding certain monetary thresholds, and real estate transactions.
Are Court Records Public In Roanoke County
Court records in Roanoke County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with the Virginia Freedom of Information Act and the constitutional principle of open courts. Under § 2.2-3704 of the Code of Virginia, citizens have the right to inspect and copy public records, including most court documents.
The following court records are typically available for public inspection:
- Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
- Criminal case files (post-charging)
- Judgments and orders
- Docket sheets
- Hearing schedules
- Property records filed with the court
However, certain records may be restricted or sealed pursuant to state law or court order. These exceptions typically include:
- Juvenile records (unless ordered otherwise by a judge)
- Mental health proceedings
- Adoption records
- Records sealed by judicial order
- Cases involving minors as victims
- Certain family court matters
- Grand jury proceedings
It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia (which includes Roanoke County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. The Virginia Supreme Court has established rules regarding public access to court records through the Rules of Supreme Court of Virginia, which provide additional guidance on record accessibility.
How To Find Court Records in Roanoke County in 2026
Members of the public seeking court records in Roanoke County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The following procedures are currently in effect for obtaining court records:
In-Person Requests:
- Identify the appropriate court that maintains the desired records
- Visit the clerk's office during regular business hours
- Complete a records request form, providing case number or party names
- Present valid photo identification
- Pay applicable search and copy fees
- Review records on-site or request certified copies
Written Requests:
- Submit a written request to the appropriate court clerk's office
- Include specific case information (names, dates, case numbers)
- Provide return address and contact information
- Enclose appropriate fee payment
- Allow processing time (typically 5-10 business days)
For Circuit Court records, contact:
Roanoke County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
305 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-6205
Roanoke County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
For General District Court records, contact:
Roanoke County General District Court
305 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-6064
Virginia Judicial System
For Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court records (restricted access):
Roanoke County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
305 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-6075
Virginia Judicial System
Requestors should note that fees apply for record searches and copies. Currently, search fees range from $5-$10, with copy fees of $0.50 per page. Certified copies incur additional charges. Payment methods include cash, money orders, and in some cases, credit cards.
How To Look Up Court Records in Roanoke County Online?
Roanoke County offers several digital platforms for accessing court records electronically. These online resources provide convenient alternatives to in-person visits. The following online systems are currently available:
Virginia Judiciary Case Information System:
- Visit the Virginia Judicial System Case Information portal
- Select "Circuit Court Case Information" or "District Court Case Information"
- Choose "Roanoke County" from the jurisdiction dropdown
- Search by name, case number, or hearing date
- Review basic case information including parties, hearing dates, and case status
Roanoke County Circuit Court Online Records:
- Access the Roanoke County Court Cases Search
- Register for an account if required (free registration)
- Search by name, case number, or filing date
- View case summaries, party information, and document indexes
- Note that full document viewing may require in-person visits
Land Records/Deed Research:
- Visit the Roanoke County Circuit Court Clerk's Office website
- Select "Land Records" from the available options
- Register for access (may require subscription for full access)
- Search by grantor/grantee name, property address, or instrument number
- View document indexes and, where available, digital images of recorded documents
Users should be aware that online access has certain limitations. Complete case files are not always available electronically, particularly for older cases or those containing sensitive information. Additionally, some online systems may require registration or subscription fees for full functionality.
How To Search Roanoke County Court Records for Free?
Virginia law guarantees the public's right to inspect court records without charge, though fees may apply for copies or certified documents. According to § 17.1-208 of the Code of Virginia, "The records and papers of every circuit court shall be open to inspection by any person and the clerk shall, when required, furnish copies thereof."
Free options for accessing Roanoke County court records include:
In-Person Inspection:
- Visit the appropriate courthouse during regular business hours
- Request to view specific case files at the clerk's public counter
- Examine records on-site at no charge
- Take notes or request copies (copy fees will apply)
Free Online Resources:
- Virginia Judicial System Case Information - Provides free basic case information for both Circuit and District courts
- Roanoke County Court Cases Search - Offers free search capabilities for case status and basic information
- Public Records Room - Provides information about accessing public records
Public Access Terminals:
- Computer terminals available at the courthouse for public use
- Access to electronic court records without charge
- Available during regular business hours
- May require assistance from clerk staff for initial setup
While basic record searches are free, users should be prepared for potential fees for:
- Printed copies ($0.50 per page is typical)
- Certified copies (additional certification fee)
- Record searches requiring extensive staff time
- Specialized searches or research assistance
What's Included in a Roanoke County Court Record?
Court records in Roanoke County contain various documents depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. The contents typically include:
Civil Case Records:
- Complaint or petition initiating the case
- Summons and proof of service
- Defendant's answer or response
- Motions filed by either party
- Court orders and rulings
- Exhibits admitted into evidence
- Transcripts of proceedings (if requested)
- Final judgment or dismissal
- Post-judgment filings (garnishments, liens)
Criminal Case Records:
- Charging documents (indictment, information)
- Arrest warrant or summons
- Bond information
- Defendant's plea
- Motions filed by prosecution or defense
- Court orders and rulings
- Evidence logs (descriptions, not actual evidence)
- Sentencing information
- Probation terms and conditions
- Appeal notices
Family Court Records:
- Divorce petitions
- Child custody and support orders
- Visitation schedules
- Financial affidavits
- Property division agreements
- Protective orders
- Name change petitions
- Adoption proceedings (often sealed)
Probate Records:
- Wills and codicils
- Estate inventories
- Executor/administrator appointments
- Claims against estates
- Asset distribution records
- Guardian/conservator appointments
Court Dockets:
- Case numbers and filing dates
- Party names
- Attorney information
- Hearing schedules
- Case status updates
- Judgment information
The Roanoke County Circuit Court Clerk's Office maintains these records in accordance with state retention requirements and provides access according to applicable laws and court rules.
How Long Does Roanoke County Keep Court Records?
Roanoke County maintains court records according to retention schedules established by the Library of Virginia and the Supreme Court of Virginia. These retention periods vary based on case type, significance, and legal requirements as specified in § 42.1-86.1 of the Code of Virginia, which governs records retention and disposition.
Current retention periods for major record categories include:
Circuit Court Records:
- Felony criminal cases: Permanently maintained
- Civil cases: 20 years after final disposition
- Divorce cases: Permanently maintained
- Wills and estate matters: Permanently maintained
- Land records (deeds, mortgages): Permanently maintained
- Judgments: 20 years from date of judgment
- Adoption records: Permanently maintained (sealed)
General District Court Records:
- Misdemeanor criminal cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Traffic cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Civil cases: 10 years after final disposition
- Small claims: 10 years after final disposition
Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court Records:
- Juvenile criminal cases: Until subject reaches age 19 (unless serious offense)
- Child custody/support: Until youngest child reaches age 19
- Protective orders: 3 years after expiration
- Adoption-related: Permanently maintained
Historic court records (generally pre-1913) may be transferred to the Library of Virginia for permanent preservation and public access. The County Courts system follows these retention schedules while ensuring compliance with privacy laws and court sealing orders.
Certain case types, particularly those involving juveniles, may be subject to expungement or sealing after specified periods, making them unavailable for public inspection. Additionally, some older records may be maintained only on microfilm or in paper format rather than in digital systems.
Types of Courts In Roanoke County
Roanoke County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority levels. The following courts currently operate within the county:
Roanoke County Circuit Court
305 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-6205
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM
Roanoke County Circuit Court
Roanoke County General District Court
305 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-6064
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Virginia Judicial System
Roanoke County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
305 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153
(540) 387-6075
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Virginia Judicial System
The Virginia court system follows a hierarchical structure:
- District Courts (General District and Juvenile & Domestic Relations) - Lower courts of limited jurisdiction
- Circuit Courts - Trial courts of general jurisdiction and appellate review of district court cases
- Court of Appeals of Virginia - Intermediate appellate court for certain case types
- Supreme Court of Virginia - Highest court and final authority on state law matters
Federal cases arising in Roanoke County are heard in:
United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia - Roanoke Division
210 Franklin Road SW
Roanoke, VA 24011
(540) 857-5100
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
U.S. District Court, Western District of Virginia
What Types of Cases Do Roanoke County Courts Hear?
Each court within Roanoke County's judicial system handles specific case types according to its statutory jurisdiction:
Circuit Court Cases:
- Felony criminal prosecutions
- Civil matters involving claims exceeding $25,000
- Real property disputes
- Divorce proceedings
- Wills and estate administration
- Appeals from district courts
- Administrative agency appeals
- Medical malpractice claims
- Complex business litigation
- Serious juvenile offenses (transferred from J&DR Court)
General District Court Cases:
- Misdemeanor criminal offenses
- Traffic violations
- Civil claims up to $25,000
- Small claims (up to $5,000)
- Preliminary hearings for felony cases
- Landlord-tenant disputes
- Protective orders (non-family members)
- Local ordinance violations
- Garnishments and other post-judgment proceedings
Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court Cases:
- Juvenile delinquency proceedings
- Child custody and visitation
- Child and spousal support
- Family abuse protective orders
- Child abuse and neglect
- Termination of parental rights
- Juvenile traffic offenses
- Domestic assault cases
- Underage alcohol and tobacco offenses
- Truancy and runaway cases
The County Courts system provides comprehensive judicial services for these case types, with each court maintaining its own records according to state requirements. Cases may move between courts based on appeals, transfers of jurisdiction, or consolidation of related matters.
How To Find a Court Docket In Roanoke County
Court dockets in Roanoke County provide schedules of upcoming hearings, trials, and other court proceedings. These dockets are accessible through several methods:
Online Docket Access:
- Visit the Virginia Judicial System Case Information portal
- Select the appropriate court type (Circuit or District)
- Choose "Roanoke County" from the jurisdiction list
- Select "Court Docket" or "Hearing Schedule" from the search options
- Enter the desired date range
- Review the resulting docket information
In-Person Docket Review:
- Visit the clerk's office for the relevant court
- Request to view the current docket or schedule
- Dockets are typically posted in public areas of the courthouse
- Daily dockets are often displayed outside courtrooms
Telephone Information:
- Contact the appropriate clerk's office:
- Circuit Court: (540) 387-6205
- General District Court: (540) 387-6064
- Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court: (540) 387-6075
- Provide case information or date of interest
- Basic docket information may be provided by phone
Case-Specific Docket Notifications:
- Register for the Court Case Information System
- Set up notifications for specific cases
- Receive updates on scheduled hearings and status changes
Docket information typically includes:
- Hearing date and time
- Courtroom assignment
- Presiding judge
- Case numbers
- Party names
- Case type
- Scheduled proceeding type (arraignment, trial, motion hearing, etc.)
Public dockets generally do not display confidential cases such as juvenile matters, sealed cases, or certain family court proceedings.
Which Courts in Roanoke County Are Not Courts of Record?
In Virginia's judicial system, "courts not of record" are those whose proceedings are not automatically recorded verbatim and whose decisions may be appealed for a completely new trial (trial de novo) in a higher court. According to § 16.1-69.5 of the Code of Virginia, district courts are classified as courts not of record.
In Roanoke County, the following courts are not courts of record:
General District Court:
- Handles misdemeanors, traffic cases, and civil claims up to $25,000
- Proceedings are not automatically transcribed
- Decisions may be appealed to Circuit Court for a new trial
- Maintains case files but not verbatim transcripts unless specially requested
Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court:
- Addresses juvenile matters and family cases
- Proceedings are not automatically transcribed
- Decisions may be appealed to Circuit Court for a new trial
- Maintains confidential case records but not verbatim transcripts
By contrast, the Roanoke County Circuit Court is a court of record, meaning:
- Proceedings are recorded verbatim
- Appeals are based on the existing record rather than a new trial
- Formal transcripts can be produced from recordings
- Higher evidentiary and procedural standards apply
The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record affects:
- Appeal procedures
- Evidentiary requirements
- Record-keeping practices
- Precedential value of decisions
- Formality of proceedings
This two-tiered system allows for more informal and expeditious handling of less serious matters at the district court level while preserving the right to a more formal proceeding through appeal to the Circuit Court.