Frequently Asked Questions

Circuit Court Frequently Asked Questions
The following Frequently Asked Questions are for persons other than attorneys who file Divorces, Name Changes, or other matters.

The Rules of the Virginia Supreme Court (PDF) and the statutes of the Code of Virginia, 1950, as amended, mentioned here may be found in the Law Library (open to the public, 757-926-8678) located on the 1st floor of the Justice Building at 2501 Washington Avenue, directly across the street from the Courthouse.
  1. How do I obtain a Marriage License?
  2. What do I need to do to perform a marriage in Virginia?
  3. If I file my own divorce, is there a package or a model I can get from the Clerk's Office to help me?
  4. If I file my own divorce, can I just give copies of the papers to my spouse?
  5. After I file my divorce does the court let me know what to do next?
  6. Do I file my divorce in Newport News?
  7. If I need advice on substantive legal matters concerning my divorce or a change of name petition, may I get that from the Clerk's Office or the judges' administrative assistants?
  8. Where can I find the Code of Virginia, the Rules of the Virginia Supreme Court, local rules of the 7th Judicial Circuit, form books and other aids?
  9. How do I legally change my name?
  10. How do I legally change the name of my minor child?