Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes, while felonies carry potential state prison time. The Virginia General Assembly defines these crimes and their penalties in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense against these charges.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official resources: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Your first court date is arraignment at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle).
- For misdemeanors, trial typically occurs 4-8 weeks later. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is held within 21-60 days.
- If the case proceeds to Circuit Court for a felony, the timeline extends to 3-9 months for trial.
- Explore defense strategies: challenge evidence, negotiate for reduction, or proceed to trial.
- If acquitted or dismissed, file for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 to clear your record.
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry specific penalties: Class 1 misdemeanor up to 12 months jail/$2,500; Class 5 felony 1-10 years. Bond is set by a magistrate at arrest.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Drug education |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and 4,739+ firm-wide case results. In New Kent County, we have 4 documented results with a 100% favorable outcome rate. 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 1 charge reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for our New Kent County clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we represent clients in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. 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 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) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in New Kent County 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 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.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas: Henrico County criminal defense lawyer and Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. Related services in New Kent County: DUI/DWI lawyer and family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.