Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily found in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defines offenses and their penalties. In New Kent County, these cases are heard at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this deep legal knowledge to build case-specific defense strategies for clients.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current information, refer to these official government sources:
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – Official Virginia statute.
- New Kent County General District Court website – Court information and procedures.
New Kent County Court Process
The criminal process in New Kent County follows specific local procedures. After an arrest, a magistrate sets a bond. First-offense misdemeanors often receive personal recognizance release, while felonies typically require a secured bond. Your first court date is an arraignment at the New Kent County General District Court.
- Arraignment: Appear in New Kent County General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss the case with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding, the judge imposes sentence. You have appeal rights to the New Kent County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in 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 typically | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, theft record |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, mandatory fines |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
*Sentencing varies. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. For many first-offense misdemeanors, personal recognizance (no payment) is common. Felonies typically require a secured bond, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445 or more for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Our Experience in Virginia Criminal Law
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We focus on providing full representation in New Kent County. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us direct insight into how cases are built and challenged.
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, Virginia. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this locality.
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. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse and Colonial Downs, we provide representation for residents of 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.
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 and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, 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 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. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical 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. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights and can lead to better outcomes, such as dismissal or reduction of charges.
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 GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Information
For more information, visit 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 reckless driving charges. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block or our Richmond location.
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.