Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
You need a strong defense to protect your rights and future when facing criminal charges in New Kent County.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony is the least serious felony level. The specific statute for your charge determines the classification and potential penalties.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys use their experience to handle the details of your case.
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For court-specific information, visit the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes cases.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond conditions. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: At your first court date, you are formally charged and enter a plea at the New Kent County General District Court.
- Pre-Trial and Discovery: Your attorney requests evidence from the prosecutor and may file motions to challenge the case.
- Resolution: Your case may resolve through a plea agreement, a bench trial in GDC, or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by Virginia law. Actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is typical for felonies.
Experience in New Kent County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our firm-wide case results total 4,739+ with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. Our tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
In New Kent County, we have 4 documented results: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Case Results for Criminal Defense in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County: 3 cases were dismissed or resulted in a not guilty verdict, and 1 charge was reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. We are a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
We provide 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in New Kent County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors can result in jail time and create a permanent record. An attorney can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome for your case.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Our state-wide hub page.
Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
View the profile of Attorney Bryan Block.
Learn more about our Richmond office location.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.