Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies crimes by severity in Title 18.2 of the state code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault or petit larceny under $1,000, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of $1,000 or more, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). For court information, see the Lexington General District Court official website.
Lexington Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Lexington occur at the Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street. Felony jury trials and appeals happen at Lexington Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense with potential jail time.
- Initial arrest and bond hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies.
- Arraignment at Lexington General District Court: Enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. The court will schedule a trial date for misdemeanors or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Discovery and pre-trial motions: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions to suppress, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington.
- Trial or plea agreement: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony preliminary hearings determine if evidence supports sending the case to Lexington Circuit Court for jury trial.
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 (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Theft conviction on record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Lexington Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our Lexington criminal defense team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who provides unique insight into police procedures and investigation standards. We focus on case-specific strategy for each client in Lexington.
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, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts handled at Lexington General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We represent individuals throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities. For 24/7 phone consultations, call (888) 437-7747. 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 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
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. In Lexington, we handle related matters including DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
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.