Destruction of Property Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA

A destruction of property charge in Virginia Beach is serious — whether it is classified as a
misdemeanor or a felony. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these cases at the
Virginia Beach General District Court (misdemeanor) or the Virginia Beach Circuit Court (felony), and
a conviction can bring jail time, fines, a permanent criminal record, and an order to pay restitution.
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys
represent individuals facing charges under Va. Code § 18.2-137 throughout Virginia Beach,
Sandbridge, and Oceana. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What Destruction of Property Means in Virginia Beach

Under Virginia law, intentionally damaging, defacing, or destroying another person’s property is
prohibited by Va. Code § 18.2-137. In the Virginia Beach court system, the value of the damage
drives the classification of the charge. If the damage is under $1,000, the offense is a Class 1
misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. When the damage equals
or exceeds $1,000, the offense is a Class 6 felony, which carries a potential term of imprisonment of
one to five years, or at the discretion of a jury, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.

Cases are heard at the Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor trials and felony
preliminary hearings, and at the Virginia Beach Circuit Court for felony trials and appeals from the
General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these matters, and
the court may order restitution to the victim in addition to any other penalties. The firm’s attorneys
appear regularly before these courts and work to protect a defendant’s rights at every stage, from the
arraignment through trial and, when appropriate, sentencing.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Destruction of Property Cases

Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys take a thorough approach to every destruction of property
case in Virginia Beach. The defense strategy often begins with an examination of how the damage
valuation was calculated. Because the $1,000 threshold separates a misdemeanor from a felony,
challenging the valuation of the damage can be critical. Other defense considerations include
determining whether the damage was intentional or accidental, whether the defendant had the owner’s
consent, and whether the property was correctly identified as belonging to another person.

The firm’s representation extends through every procedural stage. At the General District Court level,
the attorney may negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek an amendment or reduction of the
charge, or move to dismiss when the evidence is insufficient. If the case proceeds to the Circuit
Court, the defense may involve challenging the admissibility of evidence, cross‑examining witnesses,
and presenting mitigation. Throughout the process, the firm works to avoid a conviction that would
result in jail time, a criminal record, or burdensome restitution obligations.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is a
former prosecutor. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of
2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Together with the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys — a
group that includes former law enforcement and former prosecutorial experience — Mr. Sris brings
extensive combined legal experience to the defense of destruction of property charges in Virginia
Beach. Results may vary.

The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys are independent practitioners who collaborate with Mr. Sris on
Virginia Beach criminal matters. This collective structure allows the firm to apply a wide range of
perspectives — from the investigation stage through trial — while ensuring that each client’s case
receives focused attention. The firm’s attorneys are admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of
Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is destruction of property under Virginia law?

Destruction of property in Virginia is the intentional damaging, destroying, or defacing
of another person’s real or personal property. Va. Code § 18.2-137 makes it a crime to
intentionally cause damage, and the classification of the offense depends on the dollar value of the
loss. Below $1,000, the offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor; $1,000 or more makes it a Class 6 felony.
The statute covers acts such as vandalism, graffiti, and damage to vehicles or buildings. A
conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a restitution order.

What are the penalties for a destruction of property conviction in Virginia Beach?

A Class 1 misdemeanor destruction of property carries up to 12 months in jail and a fine
of up to $2,500; a Class 6 felony carries one to five years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail
at a jury’s discretion). The Virginia Beach General District Court hears misdemeanor
cases, while felony cases proceed to the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. In addition to any custodial
sentence and fine, the court commonly orders the defendant to pay restitution to the property
owner. Because a felony conviction also brings the loss of certain civil rights, the
classification of the charge is often a central issue in the defense.

How does an attorney defend against a destruction of property charge?

A defense strategy frequently focuses on challenging the valuation of the damage,
establishing lack of intent, or demonstrating consent by the property owner. Because the
difference between a misdemeanor and a felony often turns on whether the damage reaches $1,000,
attacking the valuation is a high‑priority step. Other approaches include disputing the identity of
the person responsible, questioning the credibility of witnesses, and examining whether the damage
was accidental rather than intentional. An attorney experienced in Virginia Beach court practice
can evaluate the evidence and advise on the strongest available defense.

Can a destruction of property charge be expunged in Virginia?

Virginia allows expungement of a destruction of property charge only if the case ends
in an acquittal, a nolle prosequi, or a dismissal. Under Va. Code § 19.2‑392.2,
most convictions cannot be expunged. If the charge is dismissed — for example, by a deferred
disposition or as part of a negotiated resolution — a petition for expungement may be filed in
the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. A first‑offense disposition under Virginia’s first‑offender
program can also result in a dismissal that is eligible for expungement. Because the rules are
strict, early legal guidance is critical.

Do I need a lawyer for a destruction of property charge in Virginia Beach?

Yes, retaining an experienced attorney is strongly recommended for any destruction of
property charge, whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony. A conviction can lead to jail
time, a criminal record, fines, and restitution that may be financially burdensome. Even a
misdemeanor on your record can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. An attorney
familiar with the procedures of the Virginia Beach General District Court and Circuit Court can
evaluate the prosecution’s evidence, challenge improper valuations, and work to obtain a dismissal
or a reduction of the charge. To discuss your situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at
(888) 437‑7747.

Related pages:
Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County •
Criminal Defense Lawyer Prince William County •
Criminal Defense Lawyer Richmond

Virginia official resources (open in a new window):
Virginia Code Title 18.2 — Crimes and Offenses •
Virginia Beach Circuit Court •
Virginia Beach General District Court

Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.
Attorney responsible for this advertising: Mr. Sris.