Buckingham County

Buckingham County is located in the Piedmont region of central Virginia, approximately 60 miles west of Richmond and 50 miles east of Charlottesville. Buckingham County seat is Buckingham, a small unincorporated community that is the administrative center. Established in 1761 from Albemarle County, Buckingham County includes approximately 583 square miles, making it one of Virginia's larger counties by land area. Buckingham County has a population of approximately 17,000 residents as of recent census estimates. The scene is characterized by rolling hills, forests, and the James River forming part of its northern boundary. Major landmarks include the Slate River, Bear Garden Mountain, and portions of the James River Heritage Trail. Buckingham County is home to the historic Slate Hill Plantation and numerous colonial-era structures. Buckingham County Recorder and Clerk's office is located at Buckingham County Courthouse, 13380 West James Anderson Highway, Buckingham area, VA 23921. Buckingham County Commissioner of the Revenue handles property assessments and is located at the same governmental complex. Buckingham County has a rich agricultural heritage, particularly in tobacco farming, though the economy has diversified significantly in recent decades. Buckingham County is unique for being home to Virginia's only commercial slate quarry and for its rural character that has been preserved despite proximity to major metropolitan areas. Buckingham County has maintained its small-town atmosphere while providing essential government services through dedicated offices including the County Administrator, Board of Supervisors, and various constitutional officers who maintain public records as required under Virginia law.

Buckingham County General District Court is located in Buckingham County, Virginia. The court has jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases, including traffic violations, misdemeanors, felonies, and small claims.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• Citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written FOIA request to the Sheriff's Office, though certain investigative records may be exempt.
• Processing fees may apply for copies of arrest reports and related documentation.

Criminal Records

• The sex offender registry is publicly accessible, allowing residents to stay informed about registered offenders in their area.
• The Virginia Freedom of Information Act handles access to these records, promoting transparency and accountability in the criminal justice system.

Arrest Records

• The Virginia Freedom of Information Act ensures public access to government records, allowing citizens to obtain information about arrests and other law enforcement activities in Buckingham County.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process in Virginia allows for the release of detainees pending trial, contingent upon the payment of a set amount or the use of a bail bondsman.

Mugshots & Booking Photos

• The availability of mugshots is subject to the Virginia Freedom of Information Act, which governs access to public records.

• Buckingham County General District Court, also located at the courthouse complex, handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, small claims up to $25,000, and preliminary hearings for felonies.
• Virginia's court case information system, available at eapps.courts.state.va.us/ocis, provides online access to case records for circuit and district courts throughout the commonwealth.
• Fees for certified copies of court documents are typically $2 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, plus a certification fee.
• The Circuit Court Clerk's office provides access to historical records, including deed books dating back to Buckingham County's founding in 1761.
• Online payment of fines and fees may be available through the Virginia Judicial System's online payment portal.

• Certified copies of recorded documents are available for a fee, typically $2 for the first page and $0.50 for subsequent pages, plus certification charges.
• The county court system provides access to parcel maps, assessment values, tax information, and property characteristics free of charge.
• Buckingham County's GIS system can be accessed through the official Buckingham County website at buckinghamcountyva.org.
• Virginia Code § 17.1-227 establishes the recordation requirements and fee structures.
• Researchers can visit the Clerk's office during regular business hours to examine original records, and staff can assist with complex title searches for an additional research fee.

Vital records for this county include birth, death, marriage, and divorce certificates issued under state vital statistics law.

• Birth certificates cost $12 for the first copy and $10 for each additional copy ordered simultaneously.
• Death certificates follow the same fee structure.
• Processing time for vital records requests typically ranges from 2-4 weeks for mail requests, though expedited service may be available for an additional fee.
• Marriage licenses are issued by Buckingham County Circuit Court Clerk's office; couples must apply in person, provide valid photo identification, and pay the required fee (approximately $30).
• Online ordering of Virginia vital records is available through VitalChek at vitalchek.com, though additional processing fees apply.

Business records, licenses, and permits for this county are processed by the County Clerk and local government offices.

• This searchable database is available free online at scc.virginia.gov/clk/begin.aspx and includes information on business status, registered agents, and filing history.
• Business license requirements and fees vary based on gross receipts and business classification under the Business, Professional and Occupational License (BPOL) tax structure.