Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defines offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. In New Kent County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, with felony jury trials moving to New Kent County Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Information about court procedures and locations is available on the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
Understanding the local court process is critical for your defense strategy. In New Kent County General District Court, prosecutors routinely evaluate cases based on evidence strength and defendant history.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court to hear formal charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains police reports and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most misdemeanors resolve through negotiation; you have a right to a bench trial in GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you can appeal to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Expungement: If charges are dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
New Kent County Criminal Penalties
In New Kent County, criminal offenses carry specific penalties under Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines.
| 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 | 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 | Jail mandatory for subsequent offense |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Our Experience in New Kent County
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 have achieved 4 documented results in New Kent County with a 100% favorable outcome rate for those cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand 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
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.
Case Results in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County, Virginia. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or resulting in not guilty verdicts, and 1 case with charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these specific New Kent County cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts, accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide criminal defense representation to residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In New Kent County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving charges. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background.
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.