Fraud Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Against Serious Financial Charges
A fraud charge in New Kent County is a serious white collar crime prosecuted under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties including prison time and fines. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients facing fraud allegations at the New Kent County General District and Circuit Courts. Our team, including former prosecutors, has documented results in the area.
Virginia Fraud Laws and Penalties
Fraud includes a range of deceptive acts intended for personal or financial gain. In Virginia, fraud charges are primarily governed by statutes within Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, which defines crimes and offenses. Common fraud charges include credit card fraud, identity theft, embezzlement, and obtaining money by false pretenses. The specific classification—whether a misdemeanor or felony—depends on the value involved and the nature of the deception.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For example, obtaining money by false pretenses where the value is less than $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the value is $1,000 or more, it becomes a felony, specifically a Class 6 felony, which carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. More complex fraud schemes, such as those involving securities or large-scale embezzlement, can be charged as higher-level felonies with longer sentences.
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the law is the first step in building a defense. You can review the official Virginia statutes on fraud and related offenses at the Virginia General Assembly website (Title 18.2, Chapter 6). For local court procedures and information, visit the New Kent County Courts website.
handling a Fraud Case in New Kent County
The procedural path for a fraud charge in New Kent County depends on whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanor fraud cases are heard entirely in the New Kent County General District Court. Felony fraud charges begin with a preliminary hearing in General District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to the New Kent County Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: After arrest, you will appear before a magistrate who will set a bond. For first-offense, lower-value fraud charges, personal recognizance (release without payment) may be possible.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges against you in General District Court and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all evidence from the prosecution and conduct an independent investigation, which may involve forensic accounting or reviewing digital transaction histories.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Simultaneously, they may negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Trial or Resolution: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial (misdemeanor) in GDC or a jury trial (felony) in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence. You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Fraud in New Kent County
In New Kent County, fraud penalties range from misdemeanor jail time and fines to multi-year felony prison sentences, heavily dependent on the specific statute violated and the financial value involved.
| Offense (Example) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obtaining Money by False Pretenses (< $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, restitution |
| Credit Card Fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-195) | Class 6 Felony (if value ≥ $1,000) | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, significant restitution |
| Identity Theft (Va. Code § 18.2-186.3) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Restitution to victims, long-term credit impact |
| Embezzlement (≥ $1,000) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of professional licenses, civil liability |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Fraud Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a fraud charge is not just a legal problem but a threat to your reputation, livelihood, and future. Our approach combines rigorous investigation of financial evidence with strategic negotiation and, when necessary, aggressive courtroom advocacy.
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
Our Approach to Fraud Defense
We begin by conducting a thorough case assessment, scrutinizing every piece of evidence for procedural errors, chain-of-custody issues, or violations of your rights. For fraud cases, this often involves a detailed forensic review of documents, contracts, and digital records. We explore all avenues for defense, such as challenging the intent element (you lacked the intent to defraud), demonstrating a lack of knowledge, or negotiating for pre-trial diversion programs where appropriate. Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, uses its insight into how the other side builds cases to anticipate strategies and counter them effectively.
Fraud Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We provide representation for residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359
Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Fraud Charges in New Kent County
What should I do if I am under investigation for fraud in New Kent County?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer New Kent County immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can advise you on your rights and may be able to intervene before formal charges are filed.
Can I go to jail for a first-time fraud offense in Virginia?
It depends on the value and type of fraud. A Class 1 misdemeanor fraud charge carries a maximum of 12 months in jail. For felony fraud (value $1,000+), the potential prison sentence is 1 to 5 years. However, a skilled attorney can often negotiate for alternatives to incarceration, especially for first-time offenders.
What is the difference between fraud and a simple breach of contract?
The key difference is intent. A breach of contract is a civil dispute where one party fails to fulfill terms. Fraud requires a deliberate misrepresentation of fact made to induce someone to part with money or property. Prosecutors must prove criminal intent beyond a reasonable doubt.
Do I need a white collar crime defense lawyer New Kent County for a misdemeanor fraud charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, professional licensing, and housing. A lawyer can work to get charges reduced, dismissed, or explore diversion programs to avoid a conviction altogether.
How long does a fraud case take in New Kent County?
A misdemeanor fraud case in General District Court may be resolved in 2-4 months. A felony fraud case, which moves from General District Court to Circuit Court for a jury trial, can take 6 months to over a year, depending on case complexity and court schedules.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense in New Kent County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.