In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carries up to 12 months in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissals and 1 reduction. A strong defense starts with understanding your rights.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law covers offenses from petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96) to felony assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57). In New Kent County, the General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. A Sex Crime Lawyer New Kent County understands how these courts operate and can build a defense case-specific to local procedures.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for New Kent County Criminal Cases
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia law governing criminal charges.
- New Kent County General District Court — Court website with hours, directions, and forms.
How Criminal Cases Proceed in New Kent County
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in General District Court to hear charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony trials occur in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately or at a later hearing. Appeals go to Circuit Court.
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison time. A sexual offense defense lawyer New Kent County can explain the specific consequences for sex-related charges.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Kent County Criminal Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has handled firm-wide 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” We have a sex charge defense strategy lawyer New Kent County who understands the sensitive nature of these allegations and builds a defense focused on protecting your future.
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 in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New Kent County Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. We serve New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Looking for a Sex Crime Lawyer New Kent County near you? We are a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, ready to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in New Kent County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. 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.
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies, with a bail bondsman charging approximately 10%.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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 GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.