---
title: "Robert G. Saunders | KnowJudges"
canonical: "https://knowjudges.com/kyj/judge/robert-g-saunders-va-newport-news-gd-criminal-court"
page_type: "judge_profile"
updated: "2026-07-26"
---

# Robert G. Saunders

Newport News GD Criminal Court · Judge

## Profile

- Court: Newport News GD Criminal 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

- Appointed by the Virginia Legislature to serve as a judge on the General District Court for the city of Newport News, Virginia, with his term commencing on July 1, 2025 and lasting six years
- He has been licensed to practice law for over 30 years, establishing a long-standing career in the Virginia legal community

### Education

- University of Virginia in — B.A. (1990)

### Additional information

- Judge Robert G. Saunders combines decades of legal practice with a commitment to judicial service.
- Before his judicial appointment, Saunders practiced law for 24 years, gaining extensive experience in multiple areas of law, including workers’ compensation, criminal law, and drug charges, among others.
- He has been recognized for his professional excellence, receiving awards such as AV Preeminent® and Client Champion awards, reflecting high peer and client evaluations.
- His legal expertise spans at least 15 areas of law, demonstrating a broad and versatile practice prior to joining the bench.
- He serves in the Seventh Judicial District and presides over civil and criminal matters within the court’s jurisdiction.
- His appointment to the Newport News General District Court marks a continuation of his contributions to the Virginia legal system, bringing extensive experience and recognized professional excellence to the bench.
- He has also contributed to legal education and public resources through platforms like, where his professional background and career highlights are documented.
- Throughout his career, Saunders has been acknowledged for his ethical standards, legal knowledge, and client service, earning distinctions such as Distinguished and Notable ratings from peers.