---
title: "H. Cary Payne | KnowJudges"
canonical: "https://knowjudges.com/kyj/judge/h-cary-payne-va-lynchburg-juvenile-and-domestic-relations-district-court"
page_type: "judge_profile"
updated: "2026-07-26"
---

# H. Cary Payne

Lynchburg Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court · Judge

## Profile

- Court: Lynchburg Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court
- State: Virginia
- Role: Judge
- Service status: active
- Last verified: 2026-07-26

## Summary

Official statewide and applicable court procedural guidance applies to this judge.

## Before you appear

- Read the judge-specific standing order first when one is listed.
- Check the docket and case orders for requirements that supersede broader guidance.
- Confirm current remote-access and courtroom technology arrangements before the proceeding.

## Courtroom Rules

### cell phones and electronic devices

Scope: statewide

Virginia courts commonly restrict cell phones and other electronic devices in court buildings; counsel and litigants should check the local court policy before arrival.

Evidence excerpt: Most courts in Virginia do not allow you to bring a cell phone or other electronic device into the building.

[Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy](https://selfhelp.vacourts.gov/node/30/cell-phone-electronic-device-policy)
Source checked: 2026-07-26


## Sources

- [Official profile](https://www.vacourts.gov/static/directories/judges_rule115.pdf)
- [Official roster](https://www.vacourts.gov/static/directories/judges_rule115.pdf)
- [Office of the Executive Secretary, Supreme Court of Virginia official judicial roster](https://www.vacourts.gov/static/directories/judges_rule115.pdf)
- [Cell Phone & Electronic Device Policy](https://selfhelp.vacourts.gov/node/30/cell-phone-electronic-device-policy)

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## Biography

### Professional career

- Listed as Presiding Judge for the Lynchburg J&DR Courthouse
- Judge of the 24th Judicial District Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court in Virginia, serving as Presiding Judge for the Lynchburg J&DR Courthouse

### Education


### Additional information

- He also had a distinguished military career, retiring in 2017 from the United States Army as a Lieutenant Colonel, earning the Meritorious Service Medal.
- His term began July 1, 2013, and initially ran until 2016.
- Elected by the Virginia General Assembly in May 2012 to fill the vacancy created by the passing of Hon. William R. Light.
- This reflects his commitment to child welfare and community engagement.
- Before becoming a judge, Payne held the role of Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in Amherst County, Virginia.
- He continues to serve in his current judicial role.
- Judge Payne presides over the 24th Judicial District Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, which covers the City of Lynchburg and Amherst, Bedford, Campbell, and Nelson Counties.
- The court handles juvenile delinquency, domestic violence, custody, visitation, support, and other family-related matters.
- Judge Payne is active in community initiatives, such as the CASA of Central Virginia “Season of Thanksgiving” event, where he inducted new volunteer child advocates at the Lynchburg J&DR Courthouse.