Commonwealth’s Attorney

Responsibilities

The commonwealth's attorney for Pittsylvania County is a constitutional officer, elected by the voters of the county to serve as the county's prosecutor and chief law enforcement official. All of the prosecutors and staff of the office are dedicated to the pursuit of justice and protection of the rights and property of all citizens of, and visitors to, Pittsylvania County.

We work in close cooperation with the Victim Witness Assistance Program, the Sheriff's Office, and other law enforcement agencies to vigorously and fairly protect the rights of crime victims, to enforce the criminal laws of the commonwealth, and to hold accountable those who violate the law.

We are dedicated to conducting this vital public safety function with integrity, professionalism, and respect for the rights of all we serve.

  1. Who is my Commonwealth’s Attorney, and what does he do?
  2. What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor?
  3. What happens if I get subpoenaed as a witness and I don’t show up for court?
  4. What if my employer does not want me to go to court?
  5. Can I drop charges?
  6. What is an “advisement” hearing and why don’t I need to come as a witness?
  7. What is a preliminary hearing and do I really need to come?
  8. What is a “grand jury” and how does it work?
  9. Who can come be with me in court?
  10. Will I have to testify in front of the defendant?
  11. How do I find out which prosecutor will be with me in court?
  12. How do I find out if my case has been “called off”?
  13. What do I do if my court date is set during my vacation?
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