Richmond Judges Recuse Themselves from Lawsuit Against Mayor

Former DPU director April Bingham's $1 million lawsuit against city leaders referred to Virginia Supreme Court for new judge assignment.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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All seven Richmond Circuit Court judges have recused themselves from presiding over a lawsuit filed by former city Department of Public Utilities (DPU) director April Bingham against Mayor Danny Avula and other city leaders. The judges cited potential conflicts of interest, and the case has been referred to the Supreme Court of Virginia to appoint a judge from outside the Richmond area to oversee the proceedings.

Why it matters

This case highlights the challenges of maintaining judicial impartiality when local government officials are involved. By removing themselves, the Richmond judges have sought to avoid even the appearance of a conflict of interest, which is important for preserving public trust in the legal system.

The details

Bingham's lawsuit alleges retaliation, wrongful termination, and defamation by city leaders following a water crisis in January 2025 that occurred during her tenure as DPU director. She is seeking $1 million in damages, reinstatement to an equivalent city government position, back pay, and coverage of legal fees.

  • On Feb. 5, 2026, the Richmond Circuit Court judges filed a disqualification order to remove themselves from the case.
  • The lawsuit was initially filed by Bingham's attorney on Jan. 12, 2026.

The players

April Bingham

Former director of the Richmond Department of Public Utilities who is suing the city, mayor, and other leaders for $1 million.

Danny Avula

The mayor of Richmond who is named as a defendant in Bingham's lawsuit.

Sabrina Joy-Hogg

Former interim Chief Administrative Officer for the city of Richmond who is also named as a defendant.

Jacqueline S. McClenney

Chief Judge of the Richmond Circuit Court who filed the order recusing all the judges from the case.

Russ Stone

8News Legal Analyst who provided commentary on the judges' decision to recuse themselves.

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What they’re saying

“Since this case does involve city government and city officials, the court felt that they should recuse themselves from the case.”

— Russ Stone, 8News Legal Analyst (8News)

“It's not just whether there is an actual conflict of interest. It's even when there is just the appearance of a conflict of interest.”

— Russ Stone, 8News Legal Analyst (8News)

What’s next

The Supreme Court of Virginia will now appoint a judge from outside the Richmond area to preside over April Bingham's lawsuit against the city and its leaders.

The takeaway

This case underscores the importance of maintaining judicial impartiality, even in cases involving local government officials. By recusing themselves, the Richmond judges have taken steps to ensure the fairness and integrity of the legal proceedings, which is crucial for upholding public trust in the justice system.