A murder charge in Virginia carries life in prison under Va. Code § 18.2-32. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia from our firm builds a case-specific strategy for your situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Code § 18.2-32 (First and Second Degree Murder) | Va. Code § 18.2-32 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, first-degree murder is defined as any willful, deliberate, and premeditated killing. Second-degree murder covers killings with malice but without premeditation. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia must understand these distinctions to build a defense. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings firsthand knowledge of how the Commonwealth builds murder cases.
Va. Code § 18.2-32 (official Virginia General Assembly) — Virginia’s murder statute. Virginia Circuit Courts (official court website) — murder cases are tried in Circuit Court.
In Virginia Circuit Courts, murder cases begin with a preliminary hearing in General District Court. The Commonwealth must show probable cause. Your Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia challenges evidence early. Prosecutors often overcharge initially, creating room for plea negotiations later.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Preliminary hearing in General District Court within 21-60 days.
- Indictment by grand jury if probable cause is found.
- Arraignment in Circuit Court where you enter a plea.
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence.
- Trial or plea negotiation before the Circuit Court judge.
In Virginia, a murder conviction carries life in prison or a term of years. First-degree murder: life or 20 years to life. Second-degree murder: 5 to 40 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First-Degree Murder (§ 18.2-32) | Felony | Life or 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
| Second-Degree Murder (§ 18.2-32) | Felony | 5 to 40 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
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 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia law. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into how the Commonwealth builds murder cases.
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
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
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented results with 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia team has handled cases in Virginia Circuit Courts statewide.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is accessible via I-66, I-495, and Route 50. Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia near Fairfax. Serving all Virginia communities. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417. By appointment only.
Do I need a murder defense lawyer in Virginia?
Yes. A murder charge in Virginia carries life in prison. You need a Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia who understands Virginia Circuit Court procedures and can challenge the Commonwealth’s evidence.
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 involves malice but no premeditation. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia can argue for a lesser charge based on the evidence.
How long does a murder case take in Virginia?
It depends. Virginia speedy trial rights require trial within 9 months if incarcerated. Typical murder cases take 6 to 18 months from arrest to resolution in Circuit Court.
Can a murder charge be reduced in Virginia?
It depends. Prosecutors may reduce first-degree murder to second-degree murder or voluntary manslaughter if the evidence supports a lesser charge. A Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia negotiates these reductions.
What are the penalties for murder in Virginia?
First-degree murder: life in prison or 20 years to life. Second-degree murder: 5 to 40 years. Fines up to $100,000. Additional consequences include loss of voting and firearm rights.
Virginia Criminal Lawyer — our state hub page. Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer — a nearby locality. Virginia Reckless Driving Lawyer — a related practice area.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.