Goochland County

Goochland County is located in the central Piedmont region of Virginia, situated along the James River approximately 20 miles west of Richmond. Established in 1728 and named after Sir William Gooch, the colonial lieutenant governor of Virginia, Goochland County includes approximately 284 square miles of rolling hills, agricultural land, and historic estates. Goochland County seat is Goochland, with the main county government complex located at 1800 Sandy Hook Road, Goochland County, VA 23063. As of the 2020 Census, Goochland County had a population of approximately 24,727 residents, representing steady growth while maintaining its rural character. Goochland County is known for its distinctive blend of historic plantation sites, horse farms, wineries, and upscale residential developments. Major landmarks include the historic Dover Hall estate, Tuckahoe Plantation (the boyhood home of Thomas Jefferson), and sections of the James River Heritage Trail. Goochland County Clerk of the Circuit Court, located at 2938 River Road West, Goochland, VA 23063, maintains court records and vital statistics. The Commissioner of the Revenue office handles property assessments and is located at 1800 Sandy Hook Road. Goochland County Recorder functions are performed by the Clerk of the Circuit Court, who records deeds, mortgages, and other land instruments. Goochland County maintains a reputation as one of Virginia's most affluent counties, balancing preservation of its agricultural heritage with careful residential and commercial development.

The Goochland County Circuit Court serves Goochland County, Virginia and handles civil, criminal, family, and probate cases. The courthouse is located in the county seat of this county. Court records and case filings can be requested in person or through the Virginia online court portal.

Goochland County Virginia Circuit Court is located in Goochland, VA. The court has jurisdiction over civil and criminal cases, including felonies, misdemeanors, traffic violations, and civil cases. The court also has jurisdiction over probate matters, including wills, estates, guardianships, and conservatorships. The court also has jurisdiction over juvenile matters, including delinquency, abuse and neglect, and adoption.

Law Enforcement & Arrests

• The facility provides visitation schedules, commissary information, and inmate mail guidelines online.
• Citizens may request arrest records by submitting a written FOIA request to the Sheriff's Office, though certain information may be withheld if it pertains to ongoing investigations or is otherwise exempt.
• Booking photos and mugshots are generally available through the jail records system, and requests can be made directly to the Sheriff's Office Records Division.

Criminal Records

• The Virginia State Police also helps with supporting local law enforcement with resources and information sharing, enhancing Goochland County's ability to manage and process criminal records effectively.

Jail & Inmate Records

• The bond and bail process follows Virginia state guidelines, allowing for the release of inmates pending trial under certain conditions.

Mugshots & Booking Photos

• The Circuit Court Clerk charges fees for certified copies of court documents, typically $2 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, plus a $2 certification fee.

• Certified copies of recorded instruments cost $2 for the first page and $0.50 for each additional page, plus the $2 certification fee.
• Goochland County GIS system at goochlandva.us/gis provides free public access to parcel maps, property ownership information, assessment values, tax district information, zoning, and aerial photography.
• Goochland County Treasurer's Office, located at 1800 Sandy Hook Road (phone: 804-556-5821), handles property tax billing and collections and maintains payment history records.

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

• Processing time is typically 4-6 weeks by mail, though expedited service is available for an additional fee.
• Requestors must provide valid photo identification and demonstrate a direct and tangible interest in the record as required by Virginia Code § 32.1-250 through § 32.1-271.
• Divorce records are maintained as part of the Circuit Court case files and can be accessed through the Clerk's office, with certified copies available for the standard court document fees.

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

• For business entity formation including corporations, limited liability companies, limited partnerships, and registered trade names (DBAs), businesses must register with the Virginia State Corporation Commission.
• This online system allows searches by entity name, registered agent, or identification number and displays formation documents, annual reports, and status information.
• Building permits, construction permits, and land use permits are issued by Goochland County Department of Planning and Zoning, located at 1800 Sandy Hook Road (phone: 804-556-5841).
• Permit applications, zoning determinations, and site plan approvals are processed through this department.
• Goochland County Chamber of Commerce, accessible at goochlandchamber.org, provides business development resources, networking opportunities, and information for businesses operating in or relocating to Goochland County.