Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more) are more serious, with Class 5 felonies punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. The New Kent County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – Official Virginia statute database.
- New Kent County General District Court – Official court website with forms and procedures.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. For misdemeanors, your trial will be at the New Kent County General District Court. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is held there first; if the judge finds probable cause, your case moves to New Kent County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Hearing: For misdemeanors, a bench trial is held in GDC. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if there’s enough evidence for a Circuit Court trial.
- Disposition: The case concludes through dismissal, plea agreement, or trial verdict.
- Appeal or Expungement: You can appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court. If the case is dismissed, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Criminal Penalties in New Kent County, Virginia
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can mean up to 12 months in jail, 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (Theft under $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Civil demand for restitution |
| Grand Larceny (Theft of $1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years (or 12 months if treated as misdemeanor) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Kent County Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper and a former Maryland prosecutor, giving us unique insight into how cases are investigated and built. We have a documented record of results in New Kent County.
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: 3 cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 1 charge was reduced or amended—a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. Accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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: 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?
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 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. 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 are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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.
Related Legal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving a neighboring county.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your assigned attorney.
- Richmond Office Location – Our location serving New Kent County.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.