Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to petit larceny (§ 18.2-96) and driving on a suspended license (§ 46.2-301). Each charge has specific elements the Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove beyond a reasonable doubt at New Kent County General District Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and forms for New Kent County are available through the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
Your case begins with an arraignment at New Kent County General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials proceed in New Kent County Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Attend your arraignment at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124.
- Review discovery with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Consider pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors exist.
- Evaluate plea offers versus trial risks with your attorney’s guidance.
- If proceeding to trial, prepare testimony and evidence for presentation.
- For felony charges, prepare for preliminary hearing in GDC and potential jury trial in Circuit Court.
Criminal Penalties in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration: a Class 1 misdemeanor brings 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 typically | 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum 10 days jail for 3rd offense |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession Schedule I/II (§ 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Substance abuse assessment |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. Secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman charging approximately 10% for felonies.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across 4,739+ firm-wide case results. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
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 dismissed or found not guilty, 1 case reduced or amended—a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results reflect our work in New Kent County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we represent clients in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. 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 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: 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 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 and heard at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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 Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby jurisdictions including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with related matters in New Kent County, consider our DUI/DWI defense services or family law representation. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.