A murder charge in Lexington carries a potential life sentence under Va. Code § 18.2-32. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington. A Murder Defense Lawyer Lexington from our firm provides the aggressive representation you need. Contact us 24/7.
Virginia Murder Law: Va. Code § 18.2-32
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-32 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, murder is defined as the unlawful killing of another person with malice aforethought. First-degree murder includes willful, deliberate, and premeditated killings, as well as killings committed during certain felonies. Second-degree murder covers all other murders that do not meet the first-degree standard. A Murder Defense Lawyer Lexington understands these critical distinctions.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every murder case. Our firm has handled 4,739+ total case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-32 (Murder) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Lexington General District Court — Official Court Website
Insider Procedural Edge: How Murder Cases Move Through Lexington Courts
Lexington General District Court handles felony preliminary hearings for murder charges. The case then moves to Lexington Circuit Court for trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all murder cases in Lexington.
- Step 1 — Arrest and Initial Appearance: You are arrested and brought before a magistrate who sets bond. A homicide defense lawyer Lexington should be contacted immediately.
- Step 2 — Preliminary Hearing: Within 21-60 days, the General District Court holds a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause.
- Step 3 — Grand Jury Indictment: The grand jury reviews evidence and issues an indictment if probable cause exists.
- Step 4 — Arraignment and Trial: You are arraigned in Circuit Court. Trial typically occurs within 3-9 months under Virginia’s speedy trial rules.
- Step 5 — Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing occurs after a pre-sentence investigation. A murder charge defense strategy lawyer Lexington can present mitigating evidence.
In Lexington, a murder conviction carries a penalty of 20 years to life in prison, with first-degree murder carrying a mandatory life sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Murder (§ 18.2-32) | Class 2 Felony | Life (mandatory) | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
| Second-Degree Murder (§ 18.2-32) | Class 3 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Murder Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating his ability to effect change at the highest levels of Virginia law. This achievement is particularly relevant for murder cases where complex legal arguments can determine outcomes.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Lexington Location
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street), accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, and Route 60.
Looking for a Murder Defense Lawyer Lexington near you? Our firm serves clients throughout Lexington and the surrounding areas.
Neighborhoods served: Lexington
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Murder Charges in Lexington
What is the penalty for murder in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. First-degree murder carries a mandatory life sentence under Va. Code § 18.2-32. Second-degree murder carries 20 years to life. A Murder Defense Lawyer Lexington can explain the specific penalties for your case.
Can a murder charge be reduced in Lexington?
It depends. A murder charge defense strategy lawyer Lexington may negotiate a plea to voluntary manslaughter or second-degree murder if evidence supports a lesser charge. Early intervention is critical.
How long does a murder case take in Lexington?
It depends. Virginia’s speedy trial rules require trial within 9 months if incarcerated. Most murder cases in Lexington take 3-9 months from arrest to trial, though complex cases may take longer.
Do I need a murder defense lawyer in Lexington?
Yes. Murder charges carry life sentences and require experienced legal representation. A homicide defense lawyer Lexington can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and build a strong defense strategy.
What is the difference between first-degree and second-degree murder in Virginia?
First-degree murder requires willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing. Second-degree murder covers killings with malice but without premeditation. A Murder Defense Lawyer Lexington can explain how these distinctions apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.