Fraud charges in New Kent County, Virginia, can be prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) as a Class 1 misdemeanor or felony depending on value; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County, including 3 dismissals and 1 reduction, demonstrating a favorable outcome in all reported instances.
Fraud Lawyer New Kent County, Virginia
Understanding Fraud Charges Under Virginia Law
Fraud in Virginia includes a range of deceptive practices, including obtaining money or property by false pretenses under Va. Code § 18.2-178. This statute makes it a crime to obtain something of value from another person through intentional misrepresentation. The severity of the charge depends on the value involved: under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine), while $1,000 or more elevates the charge to a felony with potential prison time. Other fraud-related offenses include credit card fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-195), computer fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-152.3), and identity theft (Va. Code § 18.2-186.3). A conviction can result in a permanent criminal record, affecting employment, housing, and professional licensing. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
Official Legal References
For the full text of Virginia’s fraud statutes, consult the official Virginia legislative website: Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For court procedures and rules, visit the Virginia Courts website: New Kent County General District Court (Virginia Courts — official site).
What to Expect in New Kent County Courts
In New Kent County General District Court, prosecutors routinely handle fraud cases with a focus on restitution for victims. We have observed that early intervention can lead to favorable outcomes, including dismissal or reduction of charges.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all documents and evidence related to the alleged fraud.
- Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer New Kent County immediately.
- Attend all court hearings at New Kent County General District Court.
- Follow your attorney’s advice regarding plea negotiations or trial.
- Consider first-offender programs if eligible.
In New Kent County, fraud charges carry penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value involved and the specific statute violated.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
| Credit Card Fraud | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Felony | Up to 12 months (misdemeanor) or 1-20 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution to victim |
| Computer Fraud | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | Up to 12 months (misdemeanor) or 1-10 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 | None | Computer forfeiture possible |
Results may vary.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Fraud Defense?
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Our team understands the details of fraud cases and works tirelessly to protect your rights.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Case Results in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 1 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary.
Our Location and Service Area
Our location in Richmond is approximately 25 miles from New Kent County General District Court, with access via I-64 and Route 33. We serve as a fraud charge defense lawyer New Kent County for clients throughout the area.
Fraud lawyer near New Kent County.
Serving the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our Location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in New Kent County
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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
A Class 1 misdemeanor in New Kent County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
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 deferred disposition. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (favorable outcome in all reported instances).
Yes, expungement is available for acquittals and dismissals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court.
Bond is set by a magistrate; personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at New Kent County General District Court (misdemeanor) and New Kent County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
Yes, you need a lawyer to protect your rights and minimize the consequences of a criminal charge.
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.
GDC handles misdemeanors and preliminary hearings; Circuit Court handles felonies and appeals.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against computer fraud and abuse act violations charges?
Defense strategies for computer fraud and abuse act violations in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia?
If facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states charges?
Defense strategies for conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
Related Legal Services
Learn more about our Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia services. For other localities, see our Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County and Petit Larceny Lawyer Albemarle County pages. We also offer Business Agreement Lawyer New Kent County and Licensing Lawyer New Kent County services.
Page last updated: 2026-04-30