Loudoun County Court Records

What Is Loudoun County Court Records

Court records in Loudoun County encompass all official documentation generated during legal proceedings within the county's court system. These records constitute the comprehensive documentation of judicial activities as maintained by the courts serving Loudoun County, Virginia. Pursuant to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, court records are defined as all written or recorded information prepared, owned, or retained by a public body in the transaction of public business.

Court records typically include:

• Case files containing pleadings, motions, and petitions
• Docket sheets documenting case chronology and proceedings
• Court orders and judicial decisions
• Judgments and decrees
• Hearing and trial transcripts
• Evidence and exhibits admitted during proceedings
• Sentencing information in criminal matters
• Marriage licenses and divorce decrees
• Probate and estate documentation

Court records differ from other public records such as property records (deeds, mortgages, liens), vital records (birth and death certificates), and administrative records. The distinction lies in their creation within the judicial process rather than through administrative government functions.

In Loudoun County, court records are maintained by several courts within the judicial hierarchy:

• Loudoun Circuit Court
• Loudoun General District Court
• Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

These courts handle various case types including civil litigation, criminal proceedings, family law matters, probate cases, and traffic violations. The maintenance and accessibility of these records are governed by the Code of Virginia § 17.1-208, which establishes the presumption of openness for court records while providing for certain exceptions.

Are Court Records Public In Loudoun County

Court records in Loudoun County are generally accessible to the public in accordance with Virginia's open courts principle and the Virginia Freedom of Information Act. The Code of Virginia § 17.1-208 specifically states that "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." This statutory provision establishes the presumption that court records are public documents available for inspection.

The following court records are typically available for public access:

• Civil case files (with certain exceptions)
• Criminal case files (post-charging)
• Court judgments and orders
• Docket sheets and case indices
• Hearing schedules and calendars
• Property records including deeds and liens
• Marriage licenses and divorce decrees

However, public access is not unlimited. Under Virginia Code § 17.1-293, certain information is restricted from public view, including:

• Social Security numbers
• Financial account numbers
• Dates of birth
• Juvenile records (with limited exceptions)
• Sealed or expunged records
• Records in certain family law matters
• Information protected by court order

It is important to note that federal court records for cases heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (which has jurisdiction over Loudoun County) are governed by federal access rules rather than state provisions. These records are accessible through the federal PACER system.

The Supreme Court of Virginia has also established Rules of Court that further define and regulate public access to court records throughout the Commonwealth, including Loudoun County.

How To Find Court Records in Loudoun County in 2026

Members of the public seeking court records in Loudoun County may utilize several methods to locate and access these documents. The county currently maintains multiple access points for court record retrieval:

For in-person requests, individuals may visit:

Loudoun County Circuit Court Clerk's Office
18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-5644
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:00 PM
Clerk of the Circuit Court

When requesting records in person:

• Bring identification
• Know the case number or party names
• Be prepared to complete a records request form
• Bring payment for any applicable fees (cash, credit card, or check)

For online access, Loudoun County offers several digital platforms:

• The Virginia Judiciary Case Information System provides access to General District Court and Circuit Court case information
• The Loudoun County Public Access System offers subscription-based access to land records and certain court documents
• The Virginia Courts Case Information portal provides statewide case information

For written requests, submit a detailed letter including:

• Your contact information
• Specific case information (names, dates, case numbers)
• Description of records sought
• Preferred delivery method

Mail written requests to:

Loudoun County Circuit Court Records Department
18 East Market Street, Leesburg, VA 20176

Pursuant to Virginia Code § 17.1-275, fees apply for most record searches and copies. Current fees include:

• Record search: $3.00 per name
• Copies: $0.50 per page
• Certified copies: $2.50 per document plus copy fees

For specialized records such as marriage licenses or concealed handgun permits, contact the specific division of the Clerk's Office that handles those documents.

How To Look Up Court Records in Loudoun County Online?

Loudoun County provides several online portals for accessing court records electronically. Each system offers different types of records and search capabilities:

The Virginia Judiciary Online Case Information System provides access to:

• Circuit Court criminal and civil case information
• General District Court case information
• Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court case information (limited)

To search this system:

1. Select Loudoun County from the jurisdiction dropdown
2. Choose the appropriate court type
3. Enter search criteria (name, case number, or hearing date)
4. Review the results list and select specific cases for details
5. Note that full document images are not available through this system

The Loudoun County Circuit Court Public Access System offers:

• Land records
• Marriage records
• Probate records
• Civil case documents
• Judgment lien information

This subscription-based service requires:

1. Creating a user account
2. Selecting a subscription plan
3. Accepting the terms of service
4. Making payment for subscription fees
5. Using advanced search options for specific document types

For criminal case information, the Virginia Courts Case Information system provides:

• Criminal case status
• Hearing dates
• Party information
• Charge details
• Case outcomes

When searching criminal records:

1. Select the appropriate court level
2. Choose Loudoun County from the locality options
3. Enter defendant name or case number
4. Review results for case status and disposition

The Loudoun County Clerk of Circuit Court website also provides information about available online services and recently added digital access options.

Users should note that online systems may not contain all court records, particularly older cases or sealed/confidential matters. Additionally, document images may require in-person requests at the courthouse.

How To Search Loudoun 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 Virginia Code § 17.1-208, "The records and papers of every circuit court shall be open to inspection by any person."

Free options for accessing Loudoun County court records include:

In-Person Inspection:

• Visit the Loudoun County Circuit Court Clerk's Office during regular business hours
• Public access terminals are available on the fourth floor of the Courts Complex
• No fee is charged for viewing records on-site
• Staff assistance is available for locating records

Free Online Resources:

• The Virginia Judiciary Case Information System provides free access to basic case information
• Loudoun County Case Information portal offers free search capabilities for case status
• The Virginia Courts Case Information system provides free access to criminal and traffic case data

When using free online systems, users should note:

• Document images are typically not available
• Search capabilities may be limited
• Not all case types are included
• Historical records may not be accessible
• Information is provided for reference only and is not certified

For comprehensive research, the Loudoun County Law Library provides:

• Free access to legal research terminals
• Assistance with locating court records
• Reference materials for understanding court documents

Loudoun County Law Library
18 East Market Street, 1st Floor
Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-5500
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:30 PM

While inspection is free, fees apply for copies and certified documents as established by state law. Current fees are posted at the Clerk's Office and on the county website.

What's Included in a Loudoun County Court Record?

Loudoun County court records contain various documents depending on the case type and court of jurisdiction. The contents typically include:

For Civil Cases:

• Complaint or petition initiating the action
• 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 hearings (if requested)
• Final judgment or dismissal
• Post-judgment motions and orders
• Appeal documentation (if applicable)

For Criminal Cases:

• Charging documents (indictment, information)
• Arrest warrant or summons
• Bond information
• Defendant's plea
• Pretrial motions and orders
• Discovery requests and responses
• Trial exhibits and evidence logs
• Verdict or plea agreement
• Sentencing information
• Probation terms and conditions
• Appeal documentation (if filed)

For Family Law Cases:

• Petition for divorce or separation
• Child custody and support documents
• Parenting plans
• Financial affidavits
• Property division agreements
• Temporary and final orders
• Guardian ad litem reports (when applicable)
• Mediation agreements

For Probate Cases:

• Will and testament
• Petition for probate
• Inventory of estate assets
• Claims against the estate
• Executor/administrator appointments
• Distribution plans
• Final accounting
• Estate closing documents

Each court record also contains a docket sheet or case summary that chronologically lists all actions taken in the case, including filings, hearings, and judicial decisions. This serves as an index to the complete case file.

Pursuant to Virginia Code § 17.1-240, the clerk must maintain these records in a manner that ensures their preservation and accessibility.

How Long Does Loudoun County Keep Court Records?

Loudoun County retains court records according to schedules established by the Library of Virginia and the Supreme Court of Virginia. These retention periods vary based on document type and case category as mandated by Virginia Code § 42.1-86.

Circuit Court Records Retention:

• Felony case files: 20 years after case conclusion
• Misdemeanor case files: 10 years after case conclusion
• Civil case files: 20 years after final order
• Domestic relations cases: 50 years after final decree
• Adoption records: Permanent
• Wills and estate records: Permanent
• Land records (deeds, mortgages): Permanent
• Marriage licenses: Permanent
• Judgments: 20 years from date of judgment (unless renewed)
• Court order books: Permanent

General District Court Records Retention:

• Criminal case files: 10 years after final disposition
• Civil case files: 10 years after judgment
• Traffic cases: 10 years after disposition
• Small claims: 10 years after judgment

Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court:

• Juvenile criminal cases: Until subject reaches age 19 (unless serious felony)
• Child custody and support: Until youngest child reaches age 19
• Protective orders: 3 years after expiration

Historic court records dating before 1913 may be transferred to the Library of Virginia for permanent preservation. The Library of Virginia Records Management division oversees the retention schedules for all court records in the Commonwealth.

Certain records may be microfilmed or digitized for preservation purposes while the original documents are destroyed according to retention schedules. Digital preservation efforts are ongoing to ensure the long-term accessibility of court records.

Individuals seeking older records that may have been transferred should contact:

Library of Virginia
800 East Broad Street
Richmond, VA 23219
804-692-3500
Monday-Saturday, 9:00 AM-5:00 PM

Types of Courts In Loudoun County

Loudoun County's judicial system consists of several courts with distinct jurisdictions and authority levels within Virginia's unified court system:

Loudoun County Circuit Court
18 East Market Street
Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-5644
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-4:00 PM
Loudoun Circuit Court

The Circuit Court is the county's court of general jurisdiction and the only court with authority to conduct jury trials. It handles serious criminal cases, civil matters exceeding $25,000, appeals from lower courts, and maintains land records.

Loudoun County General District Court
18 East Market Street
Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-6500
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
General District Court

The General District Court handles civil claims up to $25,000, misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, and conducts preliminary hearings for felony cases.

Loudoun County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
18 East Market Street
Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-6600
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM
Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court

This specialized court handles cases involving juveniles, family matters, custody disputes, child support, and domestic violence cases.

Loudoun County Magistrate's Office
42035 Loudoun Center Place
Leesburg, VA 20175
703-777-0427
Open 24 hours daily

Magistrates issue arrest and search warrants, conduct bail hearings, and accept certain criminal complaints.

The court hierarchy in Virginia proceeds from the District Courts (General District and Juvenile & Domestic Relations) to the Circuit Court, then to the Court of Appeals of Virginia, and finally to the Supreme Court of Virginia. Each higher court serves as an appellate body for the courts below it.

Federal cases arising in Loudoun County are heard in the:

United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia - Alexandria Division
401 Courthouse Square
Alexandria, VA 22314
703-299-2100
Monday-Friday, 8:30 AM-5:00 PM

What Types of Cases Do Loudoun County Courts Hear?

Loudoun County's court system adjudicates a wide range of legal matters, with each court handling specific case types according to its statutory jurisdiction:

Loudoun Circuit Court handles:

• Felony criminal cases
• Civil matters with claims exceeding $25,000
• Appeals from General District and Juvenile & Domestic Relations Courts
• Real property disputes and land records
• Wills, trusts, and estate administration
• Divorce proceedings
• Adoption cases
• Name change petitions
• Serious misdemeanors
• Jury trials (both civil and criminal)
• Constitutional claims
• Administrative agency appeals

Loudoun General District Court adjudicates:

• Misdemeanor criminal offenses
• Traffic violations
• Civil claims up to $25,000
• Small claims (up to $5,000)
• Preliminary hearings for felony cases
• Unlawful detainer (eviction) proceedings
• Protective orders in non-family situations
• Local ordinance violations
• First appearance for criminal defendants
• Bond hearings

Loudoun Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court oversees:

• Juvenile delinquency cases
• Child abuse and neglect matters
• Child custody and visitation disputes
• Child and spousal support proceedings
• Family-based protective orders
• Juvenile traffic offenses
• Truancy cases
• Termination of parental rights
• Foster care review
• Underage drinking and tobacco violations
• Domestic assault cases

The jurisdiction of these courts is established by the Code of Virginia § 16.1-69.1 and related statutes. Cases may move between courts based on appeals, severity of charges, or specialized needs.

Certain specialized proceedings, such as mental health commitments, are handled through collaborative processes involving multiple courts and agencies within the county's judicial system.

How To Find a Court Docket In Loudoun County

Court dockets in Loudoun County provide the schedule of cases to be heard and serve as an index of court proceedings. Members of the public can access docket information through several methods:

Online Docket Access:

• The Virginia Judiciary Online Case Information System provides docket information for Circuit and General District Courts
• Loudoun County Case Information portal offers links to current court calendars
• For criminal cases, the Virginia Courts Case Information system displays hearing dates and times

To search online dockets:

1. Select the appropriate court
2. Enter case number, party name, or hearing date
3. Review the results for scheduled hearings
4. Note that dockets are typically published 1-2 weeks in advance

In-Person Docket Access:

• Visit the clerk's office for the relevant court
• Request to view the daily or weekly docket
• Public terminals are available for searching case information
• Printed dockets are often posted outside courtrooms

Telephone Information:

• Circuit Court: 703-771-5644
• General District Court: 703-771-6500
• Juvenile & Domestic Relations Court: 703-771-6600

When calling, be prepared to provide:

• Case number (if known)
• Names of parties involved
• Approximate date of filing or hearing

For attorneys and frequent users, the Circuit Court Public Access System offers subscription-based access to more detailed docket information and document images.

Court dockets are typically updated daily, but last-minute changes may occur. It is advisable to verify hearing information the day before scheduled court appearances. Pursuant to Virginia Code § 17.1-242, courts must maintain dockets of all cases pending.

Which Courts in Loudoun County Are Not Courts of Record?

In Virginia's judicial system, "courts not of record" are those whose proceedings are not recorded verbatim and whose decisions may be appealed for a completely new trial (de novo) in a higher court. According to Virginia Code § 16.1-69.5, the District Courts are classified as courts not of record.

In Loudoun County, the following are courts not of record:

Loudoun County General District Court
18 East Market Street
Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-6500
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

Loudoun County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
18 East Market Street
Leesburg, VA 20176
703-771-6600
Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-4:00 PM

These courts have the following characteristics:

• Proceedings are not transcribed by court reporters
• Judges hear cases without juries
• Decisions may be appealed to the Circuit Court for a new trial
• Records consist primarily of case papers rather than verbatim transcripts
• Simplified procedures compared to Circuit Court
• Cases are often resolved more quickly

The Loudoun County Circuit Court, by contrast, is a court of record where:

• Proceedings are recorded verbatim
• Appeals are based on the record created at trial
• Jury trials are available
• Appeals go directly to the Court of Appeals or Supreme Court of Virginia
• More formal procedures are followed

The distinction between courts of record and courts not of record is important for understanding appeal rights and procedural requirements. When a case is appealed from a court not of record to the Circuit Court, the entire case is retried as if the lower court proceeding never occurred.

Lookup Court Records in Loudoun County

Case Information for Loudoun County Courts

Records Access through Loudoun County

Loudoun Circuit Court Information

Public Access to Circuit Court Records

Clerk of the Circuit Court Services