Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
In New Kent County, 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 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys understand the local court system at 12001 Courthouse Circle.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a unique perspective to defense strategy.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. New Kent County court information, including forms and procedures, is available at the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes cases.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): If charged with a felony, a hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions to suppress or dismiss, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. For felonies or if you demand a jury, the trial moves to New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You can appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Community service possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more likely for felonies.
Our Experience in New Kent County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing deep insight into how cases are built and challenged. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor who has personally handled complex criminal matters for decades.
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: 3 cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 1 charge was reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Serving New Kent County, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we represent clients in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are 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 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 in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (when the prosecutor drops the charge). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
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. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more likely for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the 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 and heard at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent public record. An attorney can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
More Legal Information
For more on Virginia criminal defense, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including 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.
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.