About Pulaski County

Pulaski County is located in the New River Valley region of southwestern Virginia, nestled among the Blue Ridge Mountains and bisected by the New River, one of the oldest rivers in North America. Covering approximately 320 square miles, the county offers a landscape of rolling hills, forested ridgelines, and fertile river valleys that have shaped its character for generations. The New River and its surrounding natural environment draw outdoor enthusiasts year-round, while the scenic beauty of the Appalachian highlands gives the county a distinct sense of place that residents take great pride in. With a population of approximately 33,800 residents, Pulaski County maintains a close-knit, small-town atmosphere anchored by its county seat, the Town of Pulaski. The town itself reflects the region's industrial heritage, having developed around the railroad and manufacturing industries in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Pulaski retains much of its historic downtown character, with brick-fronted buildings and a strong sense of community identity that distinguishes it from more rapidly growing parts of Virginia. The county's economy is a blend of manufacturing, agriculture, retail trade, and public sector employment. Major employers have historically included furniture manufacturing and textiles, though the local economy has diversified over the decades. Proximity to Radford and the broader New River Valley corridor, which includes Virginia Tech in neighboring Montgomery County, provides additional economic opportunity and workforce development. Small farms, local businesses, and a growing interest in outdoor tourism related to the New River Trail State Park and surrounding recreational areas continue to shape the economic life of Pulaski County, giving it a resilient and community-centered economic foundation.

Practice Areas in Pulaski County

Criminal Law
Criminal Law
Charges, arrests, bail and criminal trials.
Learn More ›
DUI
DUI
DUI charges, licence suspension and reinstatement.
Learn More ›
Family Law
Family Law
Divorce, custody, property and support.
Learn More ›
Immigration Law
Immigration
Visas, green cards, deportation and citizenship.
Learn More ›
Traffic Law
Traffic Law
Traffic violations, licence matters and offences.
Learn More ›
Employment Law
Employment Law
Wrongful termination, discrimination, disputes.
Learn More ›

Courts in Pulaski County

Pulaski County is served by the Twenty-seventh Judicial Circuit of Virginia, which includes the Pulaski County Circuit Court, located at the Pulaski County Courthouse at 45 Third Street NW in the Town of Pulaski. The Circuit Court handles felony criminal cases, civil matters involving claims over $25,000, family law proceedings such as divorce and adoption, and appeals from the lower district court. The Pulaski County General District Court, also located at the same courthouse complex, handles misdemeanor criminal cases, traffic violations, civil claims up to $25,000, and preliminary hearings for felony charges. A Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court serves the county as well, handling cases involving juveniles, child custody and support, and domestic violence matters. Magistrates are also available in the county to issue arrest and search warrants, set bail, and handle other preliminary judicial functions on a round-the-clock basis.

Federal vs State Jurisdiction in Pulaski County

Most legal matters involving Pulaski County residents are handled within Virginia's state court system, including criminal offenses under state law, family disputes, traffic infractions, and civil claims between private parties. However, certain cases fall under federal jurisdiction and are heard by the United States District Court for the Western District of Virginia, with the relevant divisional courthouse located in Roanoke. Federal jurisdiction applies to matters involving federal law, constitutional rights, disputes between citizens of different states involving amounts over $75,000, bankruptcy proceedings, immigration matters, and crimes committed on federal property. Residents involved in federal investigations or civil rights claims, or those facing charges related to federal drug laws or fraud statutes, will find their cases handled at the federal level rather than in the Pulaski County courts, and it is important to understand this distinction when seeking legal representation.

Common Legal Situations in Pulaski County

Pulaski County residents commonly encounter a range of legal issues that reflect the county's rural and small-town character. Traffic and DUI offenses are among the most frequent matters brought before the General District Court, particularly given the county's reliance on personal vehicles and the mix of rural and highway roads. Family law matters including divorce, child custody, child support disputes, and protective orders are also prevalent, as they are throughout rural Virginia communities. Criminal defense cases ranging from misdemeanor charges to felony drug offenses arise regularly, and the county's working-class economic base means that landlord-tenant disputes, workers' compensation claims, and employment disagreements are common as well. Estate planning, wills, and probate matters are a consistent need among the county's aging population, and occasional civil disputes over property boundaries, contracts, and personal injury round out the everyday legal landscape that residents navigate.

Why Go To Court for Pulaski County Legal Matters

Go To Court Lawyers is a strong choice for Pulaski County residents because the firm offers access to experienced legal professionals who understand Virginia law and the local court system in the New River Valley region. Residents can reach the team any time of day or night through Go To Court's 24/7 free legal hotline, ensuring that urgent legal questions are never left unanswered. The firm is also working toward a transparent fixed-fee model, so clients can understand the cost of their legal representation upfront without worrying about unpredictable billing. With a committed and knowledgeable team ready to assist with a wide range of legal matters, Go To Court Lawyers provides Pulaski County residents with reliable, accessible legal support when they need it most.

Free — available now

In Pulaski County and have a legal question?

Call our free hotline right now — available 24/7, no obligation.

Call free now

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if I receive a traffic citation in Pulaski County?

If you receive a traffic citation in Pulaski County, you have the option to pay the fine or contest the charge in the Pulaski County General District Court. For minor infractions, paying the fine may seem simple, but doing so is an admission of guilt and can affect your driving record and insurance rates, so consulting with a lawyer before deciding is advisable. An attorney familiar with Virginia traffic law may be able to help you reduce or dismiss the charge depending on the circumstances.

How does child custody work in Pulaski County during a separation or divorce?

Child custody matters in Pulaski County are handled by the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court or the Circuit Court depending on the stage of proceedings. Virginia courts determine custody based on the best interests of the child, considering factors such as each parent's relationship with the child, the child's age and needs, and each parent's ability to provide a stable home. Parents are encouraged to reach a custody agreement outside of court when possible, but if disputes arise, a judge will make the final determination.

Can I expunge a criminal record in Virginia if my charge was in Pulaski County?

Virginia law allows for expungement of criminal records in limited circumstances, primarily when charges were dismissed, you were acquitted, or the Commonwealth's attorney agrees to the expungement. As of recent legislative changes, Virginia has also expanded eligibility for some convictions under certain conditions. If you believe you may qualify for expungement of a Pulaski County charge, speaking with a Virginia attorney can help you understand the process and file the necessary petition with the Circuit Court.

What are my rights if I am arrested in Pulaski County?

If you are arrested in Pulaski County, you have the right to remain silent and the right to have an attorney present during questioning, as guaranteed by the U.S. Constitution. You should clearly invoke these rights and avoid making statements to law enforcement without legal counsel present. A magistrate will typically set bail conditions, and your first court appearance will be scheduled shortly after arrest, making it important to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

How do I handle a landlord-tenant dispute in Pulaski County?

Landlord-tenant disputes in Pulaski County are governed by the Virginia Residential Landlord and Tenant Act, which outlines the rights and responsibilities of both parties regarding security deposits, repairs, lease termination, and eviction procedures. Tenants facing eviction should be aware that landlords must follow a specific legal process through the General District Court, and a tenant has the right to appear and contest the eviction. Whether you are a landlord seeking to recover unpaid rent or a tenant dealing with uninhabitable conditions, a legal professional can help you understand your options and navigate the process correctly.

Neighbouring Counties

Pulaski County is bordered by Montgomery County to the northeast, Giles County to the northwest, Bland County to the west, Wythe County to the south, and Carroll County and Floyd County to the southeast.