Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Criminal Charges in Lexington, Virginia
Criminal law in Virginia is defined by Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges in Lexington include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (Va. Code § 46.2-301). The Lexington General District Court hears misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal laws, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, visit the Lexington General District Court website.
Lexington Court Process
All criminal cases in Lexington begin at the Lexington General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any charge with potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear in Lexington General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews the evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the case.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): If charged with a felony, a hearing is held to determine if there is enough evidence for trial.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court, or a plea agreement is reached.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal a conviction or, if eligible, petition for expungement of your record.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Lexington
In Lexington, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (Under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
| Drug Possession (First Offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible driver’s license suspension | May qualify for first-offender dismissal |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is common for felonies.
Experience in Lexington Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have a documented record of case results in Lexington. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local procedures at the Lexington General District Court.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’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
Case Results in Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, Virginia. These results include matters that were dismissed, reduced, or resolved favorably for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Near Lexington, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington, serving the Lexington area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license. Cases are heard at Lexington General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and cases where the prosecutor drops the charge (nolle prosequi) under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify for dismissal through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. A secured bond is typical for felonies, often requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10% of the bond amount. Bond decisions can be appealed to the Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers and landlords. Having an attorney protects your rights and can significantly affect the outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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.
Related Legal Services
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 assistance with a related matter in Lexington, consider our DUI defense lawyer or family law attorney. 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.