spec_version=V13.3 | generated_date=2026-03-20 | locality=Virginia Beach (City) | state=VA | practice_area=Criminal | assigned_location=Richmond Location | primary_attorney=Bryan Block | source_row=217 | case_results_source=locality-specific | seasonal_hook=no | aggregate_rating_active=no | word_count=1650 | tier=2 | conflicts_detected=none | checker_status=PASS | blocker_count=0 | warning_count=0
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand the Virginia Beach General District Court process. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation by appointment.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny. The law sets penalties, procedures for arrest, and rights at trial. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed knowledge to build defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Virginia Beach court information, see the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case starts at Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any charge with potential jail time.
- Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in Virginia Beach General District Court, enter a plea, and receive a trial date.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and can file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Trial or Resolution: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a new trial.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to over 10 years in prison for serious felonies, as defined by Va. Code Title 18.2.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our Virginia Beach criminal defense team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block and former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher, providing unique insight into police and prosecution tactics.
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
Virginia Beach Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach. Our attorneys work to achieve dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-64 and I-264. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All 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.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license. Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent record. An attorney can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek the best possible outcome in Virginia Beach General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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 potential jail time.
More Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need related legal help in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach DUI lawyer or Virginia Beach family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.