Criminal Defense Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand the Virginia Beach General District Court process. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny. The law also establishes sentencing guidelines under § 19.2-295.1 and expungement procedures for certain case outcomes under § 19.2-392.2.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. This background provides direct insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases in Virginia Beach.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process and Local Insight
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Virginia Beach occur at the Virginia Beach General District Court on Nimmo Parkway. Felony jury trials and appeals are handled by the Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss potential resolutions with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, which may include reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-eligible offense.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding of guilt, the judge will impose sentence. You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the offense classification under Virginia law.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution; record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; restitution |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Record; mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. For many first-offense misdemeanors, personal recognizance (no payment) is common. For felonies, a secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman (approx. 10% fee). Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Firm Credentials and Local Recognition
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to Virginia Beach criminal cases. Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the firm has a documented record of case results. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of both sides of the courtroom.
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
Documented Case Results in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach. These outcomes include dismissals, reductions, and favorable resolutions achieved through negotiation and litigation.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We represent individuals throughout the Virginia Beach area, including Sandbridge and Oceana, accessible via I-264 and Route 44.
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.
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 are 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?
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 SRIS 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, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you have related legal needs in Virginia Beach, consider our DUI defense lawyers or family law attorneys. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your Virginia Beach criminal case.