Joel R. Branscom

Professional career

• Joel Branscom was appointed as a 25th District Circuit Court judge in Virginia, officially beginning his term on February 1, 2024, filling the vacancy left by the retirement of Judge Bo Trumbo
• Before his judicial appointment, Branscom held the role of Botetourt County’s Commonwealth’s Attorney from 1994 until 2024
• Judge Branscom has been actively involved in court administration and local legal projects

Education

Additional information

• Confirmed by both the Virginia Senate and House of Delegates after being the sole candidate interviewed for the position.
• Appointed to an eight-year term on the circuit bench.
• overseeing criminal prosecutions and legal matters for the county.
• His transition from prosecutor to judge marked a significant shift from actively litigating cases to presiding over them, including civil and criminal matters across the circuit.
• Notably, he served on the advisory committee for the new Botetourt County Circuit Courthouse, helping design a modern facility that preserves historical elements while meeting current accessibility and security standards.
• His work on the committee reflects his commitment to improving the judicial infrastructure and public access to justice.