Hoover, circuit court judge for Charles City and New Kent, announces retirement

Thomas B. Hoover, honorable judge of Charles City and New Kent Circuit Court, is announcing his retirement effective Dec. 31 of this year.

Hoover confirmed his decision during a Sept. 11 interview, saying it was time for him to try something new.

“Twenty years on the bench is plenty of time to serve,” he said.

Hoover’s career began as New Kent County Commonwealth’s Attorney from 1980-93. In 1993, he assumed the role as judge of New Kent Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court. In 1997, Hoover was appointed as circuit court judge for the 9th Judicial Circuit in Virginia.

Hoover reflected upon one of the major changes he made upon being named to the aforementioned position.

“I was the first judge to implement a policy that all domestic violence cases go forward in the ninth circuit district,” he said. “This was to prevent victims from backing out of a situation.

“This was a very positive change and that is something that I am extremely proud of,” he added.

Hoover’s impression in the court system did not stem from simply trials and cases. His influence can literally be seen in at least three courtrooms in the state of Virginia. The outgoing judge had a major impact on the design and structure on courtrooms remodeled in King & Queen, as well as the newly constructed buildings at King William and Charles City County.

Hoover’s tenure as an active judge will conclude with 20 years of service, and a total of 33 years working in New Kent. His work, however, is not finished.

“I plan to try something new,” he continued, speaking on future plans after retirement. “I will turn my focus more to mediation and civil settlements.

“I will do some occasional substitute work,” he added. “But after Dec. 31, I will have very little action inside the courtroom.”

Hoover concluded the interview by sending thanks and praise to both Charles City and New Kent personnel.

“I want to thank the bailiffs from the sheriff’s offices of both Charles City and New Kent,” he added. “I also want to thank the clerk’s offices of those jurisdictions as well.

“For 20 years, it’s been a pleasure to serve on the bench and work with those individuals as a team,” he continued. “I can’t thank them enough for all that they have done.”

A replacement for Hoover is expected to be named by the General Assembly in January or February of next year. Substitute judges will conduct circuit court proceedings beginning Jan. 1.