Federal Courts Explain Rules of Evidence in Courtroom Proceedings

Published on May 5, 2026 Since 1975, the Federal Rules of Evidence have governed the admission or exclusion of evidence in the federal courts. When two parties clash in a criminal or civil case, one simple word from either lawyer creates instant drama: “Objection!” In that moment, a case is thrown into uncertainty. Will a witness statement be struck from the record? Will an expert be permitted to testify? Will a critical exhibit or argument be rejected as legally inadmissible? The answer can make or break a case, and all eyes instinctively turn to the judge.What’s less clear to the general public is what happens next, and why.In the federal courts, judges do not resolve such critical questions in a vacuum. Since 1975, they have relied on the Federal Rules of Evidence. These rules provide a consistent but flexible framework to ensure that proceedings remain fair regardless of the court, judge, or type of case.Before 1975, evidentiary issues were determined by the law of the jurisdiction where the trial took place, and that law was a compilation of cases, rules, and statutes. This posed challenges for lawyers and judges, who had to swiftly address complex or novel evidentiary issues in front of the jury, leading to moments usually reserved for television.To commemorate the important milestone of 50 years since adoption of the Federal Rules of Evidence, U.S. District Judge Jesse M. Furman, chair of the Rules of Evidence Advisory Committee of the Judicial Conference of the United States, and Professor Daniel J. Capra, reporter for the Advisory Committee, reflect on the impact of unification of the rules of evidence and how the Judiciary’s rule-making process ensures that the Federal Rules of Evidence keep up with the times.Can you briefly describe what the Federal Rules of Evidence do?Judge Furman: The Judiciary has authority under the federal Rules Enabling Act to develop rules of practice and procedure for the federal courts. Today, this includes the federal rules governing civil, criminal, and bankruptcy cases, and the rules of evidence that apply in those cases. There are also procedural rules that govern appeals. All these rules share the same rule-making process — suggestions to amend one of the five federal rules sets are provided to the relevant advisory committee of the Judicial Conference Committee on the Rules of Practice and Procedure. The advisory committee then considers the suggestion openly and publicly, and if the suggestion has merit, the drafting process takes place. The public is then invited to make comments on the draft amendments and give testimony at public hearings on the proposed changes.The rules of procedure generally set out the types of filings that are required or can be made in specific types of federal cases, the content of those filings, when a hearing or motion is required, and appropriate deadlines and other mechanisms to move the case forward fairly and efficiently from start to finish. The Federal Rules of Evidence operate differently. They apply only during a specific phase of a case – the trial, and in some limited cases, evidentiary hearings. Their role is to ensure that the facts as determined at trial are based on evidence that is relevant, reliable, authentic, and not unfairly prejudicial. For example, a ruling to admit or exclude a piece of evidence that one side may consider “the smoking gun,” or evidence that tests the credibility of a star witness, can be outcome determinative. There are also a host of constitutional issues intertwined with evidentiary decisions, especially in criminal trials, such as Fourth Amendment case law on search and seizure or Sixth Amendment rights to a fair trial and to cross-examine witnesses. What prompted the Judiciary to try to codify evidentiary rules for the federal courts and why did it take so long for them to be adopted?Judge Furman: A major consideration in adopting uniform evidentiary standards was fairness in federal trials. Before 1975, the rules of evidence that applied in a federal trial, including the existence and scope of any privileges from testifying, were scattered throughout federal and state case law and statutes. This disparity raised fundamental concerns about the principle of equal access to justice in the federal court system, a particularly serious concern in criminal prosecutions. For example, with differing rules applicable in different federal districts, a witness deemed competent to testify in one federal district might be excluded in another. A unified set of rules was also needed to address the realities of trial practice. Trial judges and practitioners faced the burden of locating the appropriate rule within an extensive maze of case law, often under extreme time pressure with witnesses present and juries waiting. This situation created an obvious need and desire for uniform evidentiary rules in the federal courts. Despite consensus that uniform evidentiary rules were needed, the effort to codify the rules of evidence for use in federal trials took almost twenty years, beginning in the late 1950s, when the Judiciary began to study the feasibility of the effort, and ending in 1975, when the rules finally went into effect. This process was at times contentious. For example, many issues were considered issues of law that should not be reduced to formulaic rules, such as privileges recognized as common law or in state statutes.Looking back on this history, and looking at how the rule-making process works today, it is hard not to appreciate the dedication and commitment shown by the earlier members of the rules committees to see the codification of the evidence rules through to the end. U.S. District Judge Jesse M. Furman (left) and Professor Daniel J. Capra (right) celebrate the 50th anniversary of the Rules of Evidence. What is the role of the Advisory Committee on the Rules of Evidence?Judge Furman: The advisory committee itself has an interesting history unlike the other advisory committees on the rules of procedure. While an Advisory Committee on the Rules of Evidence was established in the 1960s to study and draft the first set of rules of evidence, it was dissolved after they were enacted. The Advisory Committee on the Rules of Evidence was formed again in 1993 and has been evaluating possible amendments to the rules ever since.Today, our committee is the first line of discussion and consideration of suggestions from the bench, bar, academia, Congress, and the public to amend the Federal Rules of Evidence. We carefully consider these suggestions in public meetings so anyone can see our deliberative process. If the advisory committee finds that a suggestion is appropriate and beneficial to the administration of justice, the reporter to the Committee — Professor Capra — conducts research and drafts a proposed amendment for consideration by the advisory committee. If the advisory committee chooses to proceed, and after giving feedback on the language of the draft, we publish the draft for public comment and a public hearing. Any final amendments yielded by this process are then provided for approval to the Committee on the Rules of Practice and Procedure, the Judicial Conference, and the Supreme Court. Once approved, they become effective unless Congress intervenes.Our members include trial and appellate judges, trial attorneys, a representative from the Department of Justice, a representative from the federal public defenders’ community, along with liaisons from the other advisory committees. This structure provides invaluable multi-faceted perspectives that ensure rule proposals are examined thoroughly from all relevant angles. Evidentiary rules also do not operate in isolation. We have to pay careful attention to how evidentiary rules operate in both civil and criminal cases and how they interact with constitutional requirements. What is the role of the Reporter for the Advisory Committee on the Rules of Evidence and what lessons have you learned from that experience? Professor Capra: Each committee relies heavily on the services of its official reporter appointed by the Chief Justice. I’ve had the pleasure of serving in that role for 30 years, and I serve alongside the reporters for the other rules committees, all of whom are prominent law professors and leading experts in their respective fields.My role at the highest level is to bring my expertise in the law of evidence to help the advisory committee evaluate suggestions for amendments, and if appropriate, do the research and drafting necessary to carry a suggestion through to a final rule. In that respect, I serve as the subject matter expert on not only the Federal Rules of Evidence themselves, but the case law interpreting them, and any issues that may arise in their application or interpretation. Each year, we can receive anywhere from several to dozens of suggestions for amendments. Not every difficulty requires changing the Federal Rules of Evidence, though, and I’ve seen circumstances where a good suggestion does not lead to a final rule amendment. The most fundamental lesson I have learned and that the advisory committee adheres to is that evidentiary rules should articulate core principles while affording courts the discretion necessary to apply them to varied and evolving factual circumstances. This purposeful flexibility has proven to be the Federal Rules of Evidence's greatest strength in adapting to change. Another thing I have learned is that having clear and comprehensive committee notes is very important. Many people say that lawyers do not read the committee notes, but these notes explain the purpose of amendments, address specific interpretive questions, provide examples of proper application, and identify issues that the amendment does not resolve. I’ve researched the issue and learned that committee notes in the Federal Rules of Evidence have been cited about 1,800 times in court decisions. What do you consider the most significant accomplishments of the Advisory Committee? Professor Capra: Since 1993, when the Advisory Committee was reestablished, the rulemaking process has generated approximately forty amendments to the Federal Rules of Evidence. Each of those amendments were significant in some respect.   Looking back at my 30 years as Reporter, however, it is hard not to think about changes made to Rule 702 governing expert testimony after the Supreme Court decided Daubert v. Merrell Dow Pharmaceuticals, Inc. The case involved the allegation that the defendant’s drug caused birth defects in the plaintiff child. The issue of whether the drug caused the birth defect was obviously a central issue in the case. Both sides introduced expert testimony on the issue, in a classic battle of the experts situation, and the trial court relied on existing Supreme Court precedent in a decision called Frye, and not Rule 702, to decide the admissibility of the expert opinions. The Supreme Court rejected this approach and decided that Rule 702 governing expert opinions – and not Frye - applied across the federal courts. This decision solidified the role of the trial judge as the gatekeeper in admitting expert testimony under Rule 702. It also led to amendments to Rule 702 to ensure that judges will not allow experts to testify, even if highly qualified, unless it is shown that they conducted a thorough investigation, relied on the same methodologies that they would rely on in their lives as experts outside the courtroom, and applied that methodology reliably. This was an incredibly important development in the law of evidence, and also in promoting the fairness of trial outcomes, because the credibility of expert testimony often influences the outcome in both criminal and civil cases.  Another important amendment that comes to mind is Rule 107, which regulates illustrative aids used in every trial, criminal and civil. Examples of illustrative aids could include a computerized reenactment of a shooting to illustrate the party's theory of the case, or a slideshow presentation by a lawyer in closing argument. These aids are not evidence – they are tools that the parties can use to help the jury understand complex evidence or how the evidence together supports a conclusion. Prior to the amendment of Rule 107 in 2024, there was no rule governing the use of aids like this. Instead, the judge would make ad hoc decisions as needed through the authority to control the presentation of witnesses and evidence. The creation of Rule 107 was therefore designed to address the inconsistency that resulted from the lack of a clear definition of permissible illustrative aids that could be shown to the jury, how and when they could be used, and the judge’s authority to weigh any prejudice that might arise from their use. What technological advances have most impacted the Rules of Evidence?Professor Capra: The use of technology is an issue that the advisory committee has grappled with for decades. This experience yielded an important guiding principle for the advisory committee’s work: where existing rules can reasonably be adapted to new circumstances, the Advisory Committee should favor interpretation over amendment to preserve stability and continuity. For example, the transition from paper-based to electronic filing systems in the 1990s and early 2000s presented the first major technological challenge. Following extensive study, the advisory committee determined that existing rules were sufficiently flexible to accommodate electronic filing without substantial amendments. Similarly, the advent of social media, electronic communications, and digital recording technologies presented novel hearsay challenges. After a thorough review, the advisory committee concluded that existing hearsay exceptions adequately addressed these categories of evidence as well. In other cases, however, rules changes were needed. For example, inadvertent disclosure of attorney-client privileged information or attorney work-product during electronic discovery led to the adoption Rule 502 governing waiver of attorney-client privilege and protection of attorney work product.Most recently, AI-generated and AI-processed evidence present fundamental questions regarding authentication, reliability, and the establishment of proper foundations for admission. The advisory committee is currently evaluating whether the proliferation of machine-generated opinions akin to expert testimony can be admissible without a testifying witness, and whether deepfake evidence is a problem in federal trials that needs to be addressed through a potential rule change. The challenge in dealing effectively with the use of AI is compounded by the extraordinary pace of technological development in this field. There is legitimate concern that any rule specifically addressing AI drafted today may be outdated by the time the Advisory Committee completes the standard rulemaking process. Learn more about the rulemaking process and the history of Federal Rules of Evidence. Related Topics: Federal Rules Subscribe to News Updates Subscribe to be notified when the news section is updated. Email Judiciary | News See All News Stories Objection! How the Federal Rules of Evidence Promote Fair Trials May 5, 2026

Margaret Ruth Nelson, 70, of Norfolk

Norfolk, VA - Margaret Ruth Nelson, of Norfolk, Virginia, passed away peacefully on May 27, 2026, at the age of 70. Born on December 4, 1955, in Jonesboro, Louisiana, Margaret was a cherished daughter of the late Mr. and Mrs. Nelson.Margaret attended Dodson High School, where she formed lifelong friendships and laid the foundation for her future endeavors. She demonstrated a strong work ethic throughout her career as a Machine Operator at Stihl, Inc., where she was admired for her dedication and skill. Following her work at Stihl, Inc she worked in retail at Ross.Margaret is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Mr. and Mrs. Nelson. Left to cherish her memory are her devoted son, Trashun Nelson; her loving brother, Glenn Nelson, and his wife Madelaine; along with numerous cousins, nieces, nephews, and a host of dear friends who will miss her dearly.No services are planned at this time. Coastal Cremations is assisting the family with arrangements.Friends and family are invited to share memories and express condolences at CoastalCremationsVA.com. Margaret will be remembered for her kindness, strength, and unwavering love for her family.

Norfolk Launches Water Quality Improvement Initiative Across City

Stormwater runoff often carries pollutants which can kill fish, and cause increased algae blooms, low oxygen and other problems in local waterways. The Department of Public Works identifies designs and constructs water quality improvement projects. Projects are funded through City Council approved capital funds and awarded grant funds. Improvements & EffortsImprovements such as upgrades to existing ponds, creation of new stormwater features, and restoration of streams and shorelines all help to trap, filter, or remove pollutants. The Department focuses efforts on projects with co-benefits that include:Coastal resiliencyCommunity beautificationFlood managementHabitat restorationInfrastructure maintenanceShoreline protectionWater qualityStudiesBMP Retrofits - CDM Smith, May 2013Eastern Branch Watershed Master Plan - June 2019ProjectsUnder ConstructionLake Herbert Spillway ReplacementMeadow Lake Retrofit - Forebay Phase 1Upcoming ProjectsSt. Paul's Blue-GreenwayMeadow Lake Retrofit - Hydrodynamic SeparatorsMeadow Lake Retrofit - Parking LotMeadow Lake Retrofit - OutfallsCompleted Projects (2015-present)Anne Outten Pond Retrofit (PDF)Ballentine School Pond Retrofit (PDF)Beach Avenue Living ShorelineCentral Business Park Pond Retrofit (PDF)Dune Street Constructed WetlandGranby Street Park Living ShorelineGreenway Park Pond Restoration (PDF)Hague Stormwater WetlandHaven Creek Living Shoreline MaintenanceHermitage Living Shoreline and Oyster ReefHighland Park Living ShorelineJeff Robertson Park Constructed Wetlands (PDF)Juvenile Detention Center Pond (PDF)Knitting Mill Creek Living Shoreline (PDF)Lake Modoc Pond Retrofit (PDF)Lake Taylor RetrofitLindenwood/Barraud Park Living Shoreline (PDF)Parkdale Stream Restoration (PDF)Pleasant Point Living ShorelineRiverside Memorial Park Living ShorelineRoberts Road Pond Retrofit (PDF)Sylvan & Walnut Hill Street Flooding Mitigation BermTemplar Boulevard Stream Restoration (PDF)Villa CircleWalters Drive Living Shoreline (VIDEO)     Project Sheet

Norfolk Reports Progress on FEMA-Funded Flood Mitigation Projects

Grant Funding OverviewGrant opportunities are announced annually by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). The city strategically identifies project opportunities, whether public or private, throughout the course of the year. Projects that weigh heavier are those that address the primary threats and also serve to decrease future National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) payouts. The current project focuses on neighborhood, regional, and watershed-level projects in line with the city's Resilience Strategy and Vision 2100.Please note: Individuals cannot apply directly to FEMA for funding. The city submits application materials to VDEM on behalf of a property owner. VDEM will determine if a project is cost-effective and apply to FEMA for grant funding consideration.Status of Projects & Pending Applications Provided below is the status of the city's approved projects and pending applications.Project NameProgramPhaseElevation of 6 Residential PropertiesFMA 2016CompletedAcquisition and Demolition of 4 Residential PropertiesHMGP 4262-ACompletedElevation of 7 Residential PropertiesHMGP 4262-BCompleted Mitigation Reconstruction of 1 Residential PropertyFMA 2018-ACompletedElevation of 11 Residential PropertiesFMA 2018-BCompletedElevation of 5 Residential PropertiesFMA 2020-ANot Selected by FEMAElevation of Four Attached TownhomesFMA 2020-BClosedElevation of 7 Residential Properties FMA 2021Not Selected by FEMAElevation of 7 Residential PropertiesFMA 2022Awarded​

Norfolk Advances Multiple Transportation and Infrastructure Studies

Citywide Signal Retiming Phase IV - 115518Chesapeake Boulevard ImprovementsColonial Avenue SurveyHampton Boulevard Safety StudyHampton Boulevard and N. Shore Safety StudyLafayette Boulevard Comprehensive StudyLittle Creek Rd Curve Warning ImprovementsOcean View Comprehensive Transportation StudyReconnecting Communities ProjectRobin Hood Road Bridge Rehabilitation - 121778

City Planning Library Archives Available for Public Access

The following is a list of historical city plans, studies, and policies adopted or conducted by the City of Norfolk over time.This list is organized into the following categories:Active These documents have either been fully adopted by reference into the City’s Comprehensive Plan, NFK2050, or serve as valuable references for the implementation of NFK2050. ArchivedThese documents do not reflect current City of Norfolk policy, as they may have been repealed and replaced by a newer plan or, in many cases, were never formally adopted by City Council.  Having access to these documents helps us understand the historical context of various planning efforts and can help inform future planning strategies.Regional PlansThe plans, studies, and policies within the Active and Archived categories are further broken down by Character District.For more information on these documents, please contact the Department of City Planning at 757-664-4752 or [email protected].

How to Obtain a Norfolk Restaurant Business License: Health Department Requirements and Food Tax Guide

[Return to Previous Page]How to Obtain a City of Norfolk Business License for Restaurants from the Commissioner of the Revenue.Contact the Health Department for a Letter of AuthorizationBefore any Business License can be issued in the City of Norfolk, a full inspection of the business location must be preformed by the Norfolk Health Department to make sure the equipment in which the food is being prepared conforms to the city's health codes. Once this is completed, the Health Department will issue you a Letter of Authorization. You will need to bring this document with you at the time you apply for the Business License. Fees vary, but for more information on Health Inspections, contact The Norfolk Department of Public Health at 757-683-2712.The Collection of Food and Beverage TaxIn the City of Norfolk there is a 6.5% Food and Beverage Tax that is charged to customers on all prepared food and beverages, over and above the 6% State Sales Tax. The business must collect the tax, report and remit the tax on or before the 20th day of the month following the month of collection. Your canceled check will serve as your receipt. If the tax is not paid by the due date, a penalty of 10% will be imposed and interest will be calculated at the rate of 10% per annum.Business Address Must Be Approved by the City Planning DepartmentIn the City of Norfolk, you must have your place of business in the city to obtain a Norfolk Business License and all new applications for restaurants and food establishments must be approved through The City Planning Office before a license can be issued. A copy of your lease or written documentation showing the address of the business must be presented for this approval. If you are attempting to obtain a Business License as a Mobile Food Peddler, please contact the City Planning Office in advance in order to determine if there are any special requirements you may need to get this approval. There is a $15 fee for this approval. Special Exceptions may be needed for your business, but for more information, please contact the City Planning Department at 757-664-4752.Register a Trade Name, Fictitious Name, DBA, etcAny person, partnership, corporation or limited liability corporation (LLC) using a name which does not identify the owner of the business must register that name in the Norfolk Circuit Court. The Circuit Court will charge a fee of $10 to register this name. For more information, contact the Norfolk Circuit Court at 757-664-4580 Cost of The Business LicenseThe cost of the Business License is based on your estimate of total gross receipts from the day the business opens, through December 31 of the current year.If the estimate is greater than $100,000 the license will cost $0.20 per $100 on the full amount of the estimateIf the estimate is less than $100,000 the license will cost $50Mobile Food Peddlers License is $50 flat regardless of the estimateBusiness Tangible Property TaxAll property such as the following are used in the operation of your business, and is located in Norfolk as of January 1 of each year, is taxed by the City of Norfolk as business tangible property:ComputersEquipmentFixturesMachineryOffice FurnitureTools, etc.A form will be mailed to your business which will ask you to send in a list of all your property, informing us of its description, its purchase date, and its original cost.Property AssessmentThe City of Norfolk will assess the property at 40% of the original cost and the assessment will be taxed at the rate of 4.33%. The payment for the tax is due by June 5th of each year.If we do not receive a list of your equipment, our office is required by law to statutorily assess the property by using the best information we have available to us (such as prior lists submitted and/or industry standards).What You Need to Bring with You if You Apply in PersonWhen applying in person, please allow at least one hour to complete the application process. To help your application process go faster, be sure to bring these important documents with you:Estimate of gross receipts through December 31stFederal Tax ID number from the IRS (visit the Internal Renevue Service website to obtain online)If your business is a corporation, LLC, LLP, etc, please bring a copy of your certificate issued by the Virginia State Corporation Commission. For more information, go to the SCC website.Lease of business location or other written documentationIdentification (Picture ID)Methods of payment accepted by the Norfolk City TreasurerCashCheck (advisable to bring separate checks for each step mentioned above)Credit Card (most major card companies accepted)Debit Card (card must display either a MasterCard or Visa logo)Additional QuestionsIf you have any further questions, please feel free to contact the Business Tax Team at 757-664-7886.[Return to Previous Page]

SkillBridge Opportunities: Military Transition Program with City of Norfolk

Overview of SkillBridgeSkillBridge is a Department of Defense program that connects transitioning service members with industry training opportunities. This program allows service members to gain valuable civilian work experience through internships and apprenticeships with various employers while still on active duty.What is SkillBridge?SkillBridge provides service members the opportunity to:Gain Hands-On Experience: Participate in industry training and internships.Network with Employers: Build connections with potential future employers.Enhance Career Readiness: Develop skills and experience that align with civilian job markets.What are the requirements to participate in SkillBridge with the City of Norfolk?To participate in SkillBridge, service members must:Be within 180 days of separation or retirement from military service.Obtain approval from their commanding officer.Have a strong interest in pursuing a career in a related industry.Application ProcessStep 1: Plan Ahead - Start Early: Begin discussing SkillBridge opportunities at least **7 months before** your separation or retirement. This gives you ample time to explore and prepare.Step 2: Explore Opportunities - Check Our Careers Page: Visit our Careers page to find open positions that interest you. Apply to the roles that align with your skills and career goals.Step 3: Submit Your Application - Complete the Intake Form: Fill out the City of Norfolk SkillBridge Intake form and include your resume. This is your chance to showcase your experience and aspirations.Step 4: Schedule Your Interview  - Book an Intake Session: Schedule an intake/interview session with the Office of Veteran Services and Military Affairs (OVMA). This is your opportunity to discuss your goals and how the SkillBridge program can help you achieve them.Step 5: Second Interview - If Selected: If you're selected for the City of Norfolk’s SkillBridge program, OVMA will arrange a second interview with the relevant departments. This is where you can dive deeper into how you can contribute and grow within the organization.Employment Policy DisclaimerParticipation Does Not Guarantee Employment: SkillBridge is a training program only. Participation in SkillBridge does not constitute employment with the City of Norfolk.Training-Only Tracks: These tracks are designed to provide hands-on experience and professional development. They do not include direct job placement, with the exception of programs offered through the Sheriff’s Office, Norfolk Police Department, and Fire & Rescue.Hiring-Eligible Tracks: If a SkillBridge track aligns with an open City job requisition, participants may apply through the City’s official hiring portal and complete the competitive selection process.No Circumvention of Hiring Rules: SkillBridge cannot be used to bypass established City hiring policies or procedures. All employment opportunities must follow the City’s standard recruitment and selection process.SkillBridge Coordination Contact InformationSkillBridge AdministratorDonna Manglicmot, Assistant Military Affairs LiaisonEmail: [email protected]

Norfolk Showcases Coronado School Site for Five Points Redevelopment

Located in Greater Norview/Five Points Area. Ideal to create opportunities for commercial redevelopment in Five Points through land assembly and acquisition. Consider modifying code requirements to encourage economic development and the reuse of vacant structures.For a printable version of this site’s Development Showcase profile, please click here.

Norfolk Development Site Targets Mixed-Use Innovation District Along Ballentine Boulevard

This opportunity site targets mixed-used building(s), apartments above commercial, which can be offices, to establish a connection with a potential manufacturing and innovation district along Ballentine Boulevard. Consider the following, additional land uses: small cinema/movie theater, family arcade, bowling alley. For a printable version of this site’s Development Showcase profile, including concept designs, please click here.

Norfolk Seeks Qualified Developers for E Princess Anne Road Housing Project

The City of Norfolk is seeking qualified developers to submit proposals for the planning, design, and construction of new housing developments. This opportunity involves the development of high-quality, well-designed housing that meets the growing demand for diverse residential options in the City of Norfolk. We invite you to explore the possibilities that lie ahead. Norfolk is more than just a place; it is a hub of culture, innovation, and economic potential. Our commitment to sustainable growth, smart urban planning, and community-driven development creates a dynamic environment to fuel the future and create a lasting legacy. Status: Request for Proposal (RFP) Release, deadline for the Submission of Questions and Requests for Clarification is 2/27/2026 by 5:00 PM.

Norfolk City Council Agendas Available for June 9

Search autocomplete is currently not responding. Please try again later. The current City Council Agendas are available here

Norfolk Food Assistance Programs: SNAP and Public Benefits Information

Supplemental Nutritional Assistance Program (SNAP)SNAP can be used like cash to buy eligible food items from authorized retailers. Authorized retailers will display either the Quest logo (PDF) or a picture of a Virginia EBT card (DOC). View additional information.Related ProgramSupplemental Nutrition Assistance Program Employment and Training (SNAPET) additional informationContact InformationCall Change Number: 757-664-3300Food Assistance: 757-664-6025General Information for Public Assistance Programs: 757-664-6035Local Number: 757-664-6025

Norfolk Home-Based Childcare: Licensing Requirements and Network Support

The mission of the Norfolk Home-Based Childcare Network is to protect the personal safety and well-being of children and families by providing professional licensure, standardized training, guidance, and support for new and existing providers of home-based care.All family day homes serving one (1) to four (4) children in the City of Norfolk are subject to the regulations of Norfolk City Code Chapter 15.1, except for the family day homes which are: Licensed by the Department of Education;Licensed by a family day home system; Only serving dependent children of military personnel and either (i) is located on a military base or federal property or (ii) is certified as a family child care provider by any branch of the Armed Forces of the United States or its agent; orOnly serving children who are related to the provider by blood, adoption, or marriage.Click here Version Options Home-Based Childcare Network Headline to learn about HCN licensure and requirements. If you are providing childcare in your home and are not licensed, it is against the law!

Princess Anne Road Site Designated for Mixed-Use Development

Property is zoned C-C, which permits commercial with residential uses above, appropriate for small scale mix use and Missing Middle. Addition of wider sidewalks, street trees and architectural street lighting would improve walkability.For a printable version of this site’s Development Showcase profile, including concept designs, please click here.

Norfolk Development Services: Schedule a Planning Meeting

Schedule a Meeting with Planning StaffRequire assistance? Certain services allow you to schedule a meeting online or in person with staff.Development Services Center (DSC) Permit and Portal Application: If you need assistance with your permit, you can schedule an in-person or online appointment to meet with a staff person to ask for help. You may also reach out to the DSC directly at 757-664-6565 or email [email protected] Permits/ Snappy Permits: Some projects are eligible for a fast review queue. To learn more about this process and if your project is eligible, click HERE. Ready to schedule a meeting?

Karen Leigh Clifton, 63

Newport News, VA - Karen Leigh (Bartlett) Clifton, born on November 7, 1962, in Tennessee, passed away peacefully in Newport News, Virginia, on May 29, 2026. She was 63 years old.A devoted homemaker for much of her life, Karen also lent her talents to various customer service roles in sales. Her vibrant personality and infectious laugh left an indelible mark on everyone she met. Known as a jokester with a great sense of humor, she brought joy to those around her.Karen had a deep love for animals, especially dogs, and spent many hours enjoying the thrill of thrifting. She was an avid fan of court TV, which complemented her natural curiosity and keen interest in the world around her. Her passion for football was evident in her support for both the New Orleans Saints and the Tennessee Titans.A virtuous woman, as embodied by Proverbs 31:10-31, Karen was loving, caring, and ever-watchful over those she cherished. To her husband, Kytrell Clifton, she was his "lambchop" and, as he fondly recalls, the last thing in Pandora's box—hope itself.Karen is preceded in death by her beloved parents, Romaine and Doris May (Ball) Bartlett. She leaves behind a legacy of love in her surviving family, including her devoted husband, Kytrell Clifton; her children, Justin Gray, Angela Gray, Wesley Harris, Laquan Dandridge, Kayla Nicole Dandridge, Briana Dandridge, Chantaysha Clifton, De'Vere Wilkins, Sasha Burnett and Yeshua Clifton; her grandchildren, Rashad, Saila, Justin, Braden, Levi, Noah, Novaleigh, Amara, Amariana, Caleb, Michael, Jordan, and A'Laura; and her sister, Diane Easter Burnette, and brother-in-law, Paul.Karen’s life will be celebrated at a later date. Coastal Cremations VA is assisting the family during this time. Friends and family are invited to share memories and express condolences at CoastalCremationsVA.com.Karen Leigh (Bartlett) Clifton will be remembered for her warmth, her laughter, and the hope she inspired in all who knew her. She will be dearly missed by her family and countless friends.

Hampton Roads Job Search and Career Resources

City of NorfolkCity of ChesapeakeCity of HamptonCity of Newport NewsCity of PortsmouthCity of SuffolkCity of Virginia BeachHampton Roads Career ConnectionHampton Roads Workforce Council (HRWC)Norfolk Redevelopment & Housing Authority Job Opportunities 

Norfolk Public Library Seeks Volunteers for Community Programs

Want to make a difference in your community?Volunteer with NPL and give back! Our volunteers work side-by-side with city employees to strengthen NPL's relationship with the local community. Volunteer opportunities include shelving, cleaning toys, attending to computer labs/Maker Spaces, helping patrons, assisting with special events and more!Apply today to become a volunteer by completing either an individual or group application. If you have any questions or would like to discuss available volunteer opportunities, please contact our Community Engagement Coordinator.

Housing Workshop Report