Also to be interviewed Monday, Judge Hairston has the backing of the Richmond delegation and is expected to have no trouble winning General Assembly votes to gain the seat that Circuit Court Judge Melvin R. Hughes is vacating after

reaching the mandatory retirement age of 70.

Mr. Hicks’ departure from city service would leave a major vacancy in the trusted circle around the mayor, who has nearly two years left in his second term.

The mayor has counted on Mr. Hicks for advice on a variety of issues and also named him to temporarily lead two city departments, Justice Services and Social Services, after previous directors quit or were fired.

Among other things, Mr. Hicks has been a leader in the city’s efforts to develop programs that have allowed thousands of people to be diverted from the Richmond Justice Center, reducing overcrowding.