Commonwealth's Attorney

The Commonwealth's Attorney for Fluvanna County is the prosecuting attorney in criminal cases in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, the General District Court, and the Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney handles civil matters, such as forfeitures, which are authorized by statute.

The Commonwealth's Attorney, as prosecuting attorney, has to prepare all criminal cases pending in the courts. Preparation includes communication with victims and witnesses and legal research regarding not only the elements of offenses, but also regarding the admissibility of evidence. Also, as part of case preparation, advice is rendered to citizens, police and magistrates prior to the filing of charges.

As a victim or witness of crime, you have certain rights under Virginia’s Crime Victim and Witness Rights Act. Some of the rights you may be entitled to are:

If you are the victim of a crime, witness to a crime, or know something related to a crime, your recollections are important. Law enforcement officers, as well as the prosecutor handling the case, may interview you. Generally, a prosecution begins with the issuance of an arrest warrant by a local magistrate.