spec_version=V13.3 | generated_date=2026-03-20 | locality=Virginia Beach (City) | state=VA | practice_area=Criminal | assigned_location=Richmond Location | primary_attorney=Bryan Block | source_row=217 | case_results_source=locality-specific | seasonal_hook=no | aggregate_rating_active=no | word_count=1650 | tier=2 | conflicts_detected=none | checker_status=PASS | blocker_count=0 | warning_count=0
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to petit larceny (§ 18.2-96) and driving on a suspended license (§ 46.2-301). Each classification carries specific penalties set by the Virginia General Assembly.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly website
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms for Virginia Beach are available from the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these cases.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Pre-Trial and Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia guidelines. You can appeal a GDC decision to Circuit Court.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry defined penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor brings up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$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 | DMV points |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to Virginia Beach cases. Our approach: global advocacy, local precision.
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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in Virginia Beach General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-64 and Route 44. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana.
We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 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 Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County criminal defense lawyer and Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. In Virginia Beach, we handle related matters like DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.