Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
In New Kent County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty and 1 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a strong defense at the New Kent County General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this legal framework to build case-specific defenses for clients in New Kent County.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and information in New Kent County, visit the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
Your case will begin at the New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials move to New Kent County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a judge at 12001 Courthouse Circle to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to challenge evidence or seek case dismissal based on procedural issues.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss the case with the prosecutor, aiming for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for serious charges, a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding, the judge determines the penalty. You have the right to appeal a GDC decision to the Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 19.2-295.1.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | 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 |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Our Experience in Virginia Criminal Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a full understanding of both sides of a criminal case. We focus on a case-specific approach for clients in New Kent County.
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 New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County, with 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 1 charge reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts on Courthouse Circle. We are a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are 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 New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in New Kent County 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 and petit larceny under $1,000. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, 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 New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County 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.
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. In New Kent County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block or visit our Richmond location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.