Special Conservator of the Peace

For a searchable directory of training schools click the following link: https://www.cms.dcjs.virginia.gov/GLSuiteWeb/Clients/VADCJS/Public/Verification/Business/Search.aspx. 

DCJS may grant training exemptions based upon prior law enforcement experience or prior experience as a Special Conservator of the Peace. Individuals must submit the partial training exemption application (PSS_WA), fee and documentation of training/experience in order to be considered for a waiver. 

A temporary registration letter will be given to the individual when they have completed all the registration requirements. The letter will state that they are now eligible to seek appointment with the Circuit Court as a Special Conservator of the Peace. If the individual’s order of appointment is granted, the individual is required to file a copy of their appointment order with the department and the law enforcement agency in which they have been granted authority. The Circuit Court maintains all discretion of granting appointments.

You must be a minimum of 18 years of age; a United States citizen or legal resident alien of the United States; and successfully complete all application requirements for registration as a special conservator of the peace, to include a background investigation, which must be completed by a law enforcement agency within the Commonwealth of Virginia. The background investigation is separate and distinct from the criminal history check, which only shows your arrest and conviction history.

Yes. The PSSAB shall have one member who is a Special Conservator of the Peace.

As of July 1, 2015, all individuals appointed or seeking appointment as a SCOP, must be registered with the department. No exemptions from registration exist under Virginia law.

As of July 1, 2015, if you are seeking a new appointment or a reappointment with a circuit court, the law requires you to submit the standardized application, created by the Supreme Court of Virginia, Office of the Executive Secretary.

The forms may be accessed at the Supreme Court of Virginia website: www.courts.state.va.us/forms/circuit/civil.html

Any individuals who have been appointed by a Circuit Court to perform only those powers, functions, duties and responsibilities authorized within such geographic limitations as the court may deem appropriate.

DCJS only accepts the most recent versions of the applications provided on our website. DCJS is not responsible for processing delays associated with forms that do not conform to this requirement.

The Division of Regulatory Services regulates individuals who have been appointed by a Circuit Court to perform only those powers, functions, duties and responsibilities authorized within such geographic limitations as the court may deem appropriate, for the security of property or the peace and presentation of evidence.