Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law Statutes
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level, punishable by up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 (Va. Code § 18.2-11). Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes all criminal cases in the jurisdiction.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and forms are available through the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
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 GDC appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes cases at the courthouse located at 12001 Courthouse Circle.
- Initial appearance and bond hearing: Appear before a magistrate who sets bond conditions. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment and plea entry: Formally hear charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at New Kent County General District Court.
- Discovery and motion filing: Review evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or plea negotiation: Proceed to bench trial in GDC or negotiate a plea agreement that may reduce charges or penalties.
- Sentencing or appeal: If convicted, present mitigation evidence at sentencing. Appeal to New Kent County Circuit Court for jury trial.
Criminal Penalties in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry specific penalties based on their classification under Virginia law, with misdemeanors resulting in up to 12 months jail and felonies carrying potential prison sentences of 1-10 years or more.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Theft conviction, employment barriers |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Drug conviction, professional license impact |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximum statutory penalties; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, criminal history, and court discretion.
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 to criminal defense cases. We maintain a focused approach, with each attorney handling a limited caseload to ensure detailed attention to every client’s defense strategy.
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 charge reduced or amended, resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in future cases.
Local Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we represent residents throughout 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: 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 New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
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. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
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. 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 New Kent County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (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 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. New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For broader Virginia criminal defense information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring jurisdictions including Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. In New Kent County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law cases. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background and experience.
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.