New Kent County Criminal Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
New Kent County criminal charges range from misdemeanors to felonies under Virginia law, carrying penalties from fines to years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full criminal defense representation, drawing on former prosecutor insight to protect your rights. Our Richmond location is 25 miles from the New Kent County Courthouse, serving clients throughout the county by appointment.
In Virginia, criminal offenses are defined by statute. Misdemeanors are classified from Class 1 (most serious) to Class 4, with penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). Felonies range from Class 1 (life imprisonment or death) to Class 6 (1-5 years in prison or up to 12 months in jail) (Va. Code § 18.2-10). The specific elements of each crime—such as intent, action, and result—are detailed in the Virginia Code.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes: Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses Generally).
For New Kent County court information: New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Criminal Court Process
The criminal process in New Kent County typically begins with an arrest or summons. You will have an arraignment in General District Court to hear charges and enter a plea. For misdemeanors, your trial will be in General District Court. For felonies, the case starts in General District Court for a preliminary hearing before potentially moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Secure Representation: Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Arraignment: Appear in New Kent County General District Court to hear formal charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery Review: Your attorney obtains all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to assess the case.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for reduced charges, diversion programs, or dismissal.
- Pretrial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated.
- Trial or Resolution: Proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Virginia Criminal Penalties
In New Kent County, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law and vary by the classification of the offense.
| Offense Classification | Incarceration | Maximum Fine | Court |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | $2,500 | General District |
| Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | $2,500 | Circuit |
| Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | $2,500 | Circuit |
| Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | $100,000 | Circuit |
Results may vary. Penalties depend on the specific charge, prior record, and case facts.
Virginia Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of the courtroom. We focus on building strong defense strategies case-specific to New Kent County procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Virginia?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500. Felonies are more serious offenses with potential prison sentences of one year to life, depending on the class.
What happens at an arraignment in New Kent County?
At your arraignment in New Kent County General District Court, you will hear the formal charges, enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest, and the judge will address bail and set future court dates.
Can a criminal charge be dismissed before trial?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed through a nolle prosequi (prosecutor’s decision to drop the charge), lack of evidence, successful pretrial motions, or completion of a diversion program for first-time offenders.
How does a criminal conviction affect my driver’s license?
Certain convictions, like DUI or drug offenses, trigger an automatic DMV license suspension separate from court penalties. Other crimes may lead to demerit points affecting your driving record.
Should I speak to the police without a lawyer?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions until you have legal representation present to protect your interests.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location is approximately 25 miles from the New Kent County Courthouse, accessible via I-64. We serve clients throughout New Kent County, including the communities of Quinton, Providence Forge, and Barhamsville. We are a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County available for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Our state hub page.
Henrico County Criminal Lawyer – Defense in a neighboring county.
New Kent County DUI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.