Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia
Lexington criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former Virginia State Trooper and former prosecutor team provides a strong defense at Lexington General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are less serious but still carry jail time. Felonies are more serious offenses with potential prison sentences. The specific penalties depend on the crime’s classification under Virginia law.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia criminal statutes from the Virginia General Assembly.
- Lexington General District Court — Official court website with forms, rules, and contact information.
Lexington Criminal Court Process
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes cases.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You appear before a magistrate within 24 hours for bond determination.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street).
- Pre-Trial: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions. Negotiations with the prosecutor occur.
- Trial or Hearing: Misdemeanor bench trial in GDC or felony preliminary hearing.
- Resolution: Case concludes through dismissal, plea, or trial verdict.
- Appeal: You have 10 days to appeal a GDC conviction to Lexington Circuit Court.
Lexington Criminal Penalties
In Lexington, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification under Virginia law.
| 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 under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail mandatory for subsequent offense |
Results may vary. Each case depends on unique facts and evidence.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Lexington Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who provides unique insight into police procedures and investigations. We have 14 documented case results in Lexington across all practice areas.
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
Lexington Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in Lexington General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts. We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve the Lexington area and surrounding communities.
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 Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington 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 Lexington, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (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 Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Serving nearby locality.
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Serving nearby locality.
- Lexington DUI/DWI Lawyer — Related practice area in Lexington.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile — Learn more about your attorney.
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.