Robbery Defense Lawyer New Kent County — Protecting Your Rights
A robbery charge in New Kent County is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. As a robbery defense lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the local court procedures at the New Kent County General District and Circuit Courts. Our firm has documented results defending clients against serious theft and violent crime charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-58 as the taking of personal property from another person or in their presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. It is always a felony. The related offense of armed robbery, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-58, involves the use or display of a firearm or other weapon in the commission of the robbery and carries even more severe mandatory minimum sentences.
For a detailed reading of the statute, visit the official Va. Code § 18.2-58 (official Virginia General Assembly).
Local Court Process for Robbery Charges in New Kent County
Robbery cases in New Kent County begin with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate. The case will proceed through the New Kent County General District Court for a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to certify the felony charge to Circuit Court. All felony trials, including for robbery and armed robbery, are held in the New Kent County Circuit Court, where you have the right to a jury trial.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond hearing. Secured bond is common for felony robbery charges.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case is heard in New Kent County General District Court. The prosecution must show probable cause that a robbery occurred and that you committed it.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the felony is certified, you will be formally arraigned on the indictment in New Kent County Circuit Court and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions, review all evidence (discovery), and negotiate with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement, potentially to a lesser charge.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing is imposed by the Circuit Court judge, following state sentencing guidelines.
For court-specific information, visit the New Kent County Courts website.
Potential Penalties for Robbery Convictions
In New Kent County, a robbery conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-58 carries a mandatory prison sentence of 5 years to life imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of civil rights |
| Armed Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (firearm) – 3 years (other weapon) | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, plus mandatory active prison time |
| Attempted Robbery | Felony | 2-10 years (Class 5 Felony) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. We have handled over firm-wide 4,739 cases with a documented favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into building a strong defense against serious charges like robbery.
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
Our firm also works closely with Mr. Sris, the managing attorney and former prosecutor who founded the firm. His strategic oversight is invaluable in complex felony cases.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
In New Kent County, our approach to robbery defense is informed by our track record. We have achieved documented results in criminal cases, including dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, and charge reductions. Every case is unique, and we develop a defense strategy focused on the specific facts and evidence of your situation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges in New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide legal representation to individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Defense in New Kent County
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a critical difference. Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) involves taking property by force or intimidation. Armed robbery is the same act but committed while using or displaying a firearm or other weapon. Armed robbery carries mandatory minimum prison sentences—5 years for a firearm, 3 years for another weapon—on top of the standard 5-years-to-life penalty for robbery.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the case facts and evidence. Robbery is a felony by statute. However, through negotiation, it may sometimes be possible to resolve a case with a plea to a lesser felony (like grand larceny) or, in rare circumstances, a high-level misdemeanor like assault. An experienced robbery charge defense lawyer New Kent County can evaluate the weaknesses in the prosecution’s case to seek the best possible resolution.
What should I do if I am arrested for robbery?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a defense lawyer as soon as possible. An early intervention by an armed robbery defense lawyer New Kent County is crucial for advising you during questioning, arguing for favorable bond terms, and beginning the investigation while evidence is fresh.
What defenses are available against a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), absence of force or intimidation, alibi, and challenging the legality of police procedures (like an unlawful search or lineup). Your attorney will scrutinize the evidence, including witness statements, surveillance footage, and forensic reports, to identify the strongest defense strategy for your case.
How long does a robbery case take in New Kent County?
A robbery case can take several months to over a year. The preliminary hearing in General District Court is typically within a few months of arrest. If certified to Circuit Court, pre-trial proceedings and a potential jury trial will extend the timeline, often to 9-12 months or longer, depending on case complexity and court scheduling.
If you are facing a robbery investigation or charges, contact a robbery defense lawyer New Kent County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential case review.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our pages on DUI defense in New Kent County and criminal defense in Henrico County. Learn more about our Virginia criminal defense practice.
Last verified: April 2026. Information subject to change.