Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. The New Kent County General District Court handles initial hearings and misdemeanor trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and forms for New Kent County are available at the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
Your case begins at New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials move to New Kent County Circuit Court. You have a right to a jury trial for any offense with potential jail time.
- Attend your arraignment at New Kent County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery and file pre-trial motions if needed.
- For misdemeanors, prepare for a bench trial in General District Court.
- If charged with a felony, your preliminary hearing determines if there is probable cause.
- Felony cases bound over to Circuit Court proceed to a jury trial or plea negotiation.
- Explore post-trial options like appeals or expungement if eligible.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Jail mandatory for subsequent offense |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts and court discretion.
Our Firm’s Background
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing full representation in criminal matters. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct experience with Virginia courts and prosecutors.
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 New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 1 charge reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Serving New Kent County, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts on 12001 Courthouse Circle, accessible via I-64 and Route 33. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery and petit larceny under $1,000.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, 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 is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 to over $445.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights and can affect the outcome of your case.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Information
For more on Virginia criminal law, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. If you are in a nearby area, our attorneys also serve Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in New Kent County, consider DUI defense or family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.