Bob McDonnell announces process for filling judicial vacancies

Gov. Bob McDonnell announced on Tuesday the process for interested candidates to apply for judicial vacancies that currently exist on Virginia’s circuit courts. The General Assembly adjourned on April 4, 2013, without filling vacancies in the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 20th, and 25th Judicial Circuits. Article VI, Section 7 of the Constitution of Virginia gives the governor the authority to fill vacancies to the Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals, and Circuit Courts “which may exist while the General Assembly is not in session.”

“Selecting individuals to serve on the bench in Virginia is one of the most important functions for our Commonwealth,” said McDonnell. “I will be seeking out the most qualified candidates for these positions, and I encourage all interested individuals to apply.”

Information on applying is available at http://www.governor.virginia.gov/vacancies.cfm. The governor also encourages comment from individuals or interested bar associations or groups.

According to Article VI, Section 7 of the Constitution of Virginia, any individuals appointed to these positions will “serve until thirty days after the commencement of the next session of the General Assembly.”