---
title: "Joel R. Branscom | KnowJudges"
canonical: "https://knowjudges.com/kyj/judge/joel-r-branscom-va-botetourt-circuit-court"
page_type: "judge_profile"
updated: "2026-07-26"
---

# Joel R. Branscom

Botetourt Circuit Court · Judge

## Profile

- Court: Botetourt Circuit 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

- 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.