Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Lexington 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 14 documented case results in Lexington across all practice areas. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a strong defense at Lexington General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are heard in General District Court, while felonies proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense in Lexington.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly statutes.
- Lexington General District Court website — Virginia court system information.
Lexington Criminal Court Process
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at 2 South Main Street.
- Initial appearance and bond hearing: Appear before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest for bond determination. Request personal recognizance for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at Lexington General District Court: Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all rights and request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Review discovery and file pre-trial motions: Challenge evidence obtained improperly and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal based on case weaknesses.
- Prepare for trial or negotiate plea agreement: Evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case and pursue the best outcome, whether through trial or negotiated resolution.
Lexington Criminal Penalties
In Lexington, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum 10 days for 2nd offense |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Criminal Defense Experience in Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has achieved 4,739+ firm-wide case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper with firsthand knowledge of law enforcement procedures.
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
Lexington Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for criminal matters handled.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts, accessible via I-81 and I-64. We represent clients throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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.
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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court 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 jail time. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Lawyer — state-wide criminal defense hub.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
- Lexington DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area in Lexington.
- Attorney Bryan Block profile — learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.