In Virginia Beach, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries 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 with a 100% favorable outcome rate. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach can help protect your rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia criminal law defines offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A murder charge in Virginia Beach is a Class 2 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-32, carrying a sentence of 20 years to life in prison. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes all felony cases in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach from our firm understands the specific procedures at the Virginia Beach General District Court, which handles preliminary hearings for felony charges before they proceed to Circuit Court for trial. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case.
For more information on Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Court procedures are governed by the Virginia Beach General District Court.
In Virginia Beach General District Court, prosecutors routinely handle high-volume dockets. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion. Your Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach can negotiate for these programs when appropriate.
- Contact a Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach immediately after arrest.
- Attend your initial appearance at Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Review discovery materials with your attorney.
- File pretrial motions to suppress evidence if applicable.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for charge reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial in Virginia Beach Circuit Court if no agreement is reached.
In Virginia Beach, a murder charge carries a sentence of 20 years to life in prison under Va. Code § 18.2-32.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Murder (First Degree) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
| Murder (Second Degree) | Class 2 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.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York. Our Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its case. 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.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach near Virginia Beach Oceanfront or Town Center can meet with you. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to 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 jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court 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 jail time.
Learn more about our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer services. We also serve Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For related legal needs, see our DUI/DWI Lawyer in Virginia Beach or Divorce and Family Law Lawyer in Virginia Beach.
View attorney profile: Bryan Block | Visit our Richmond office location.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.