Criminal Defense Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Virginia Beach, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at Virginia Beach General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Beach Criminal Charges and Statutes
Virginia criminal law is defined by state statutes. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years. All charges are prosecuted by the Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia legislature website. For court procedures and information, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case will begin at Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B. For felony charges, the case may proceed to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea at Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential plea agreements or diversion programs with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will proceed to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or be resolved by a plea.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal or Expungement: You may appeal a conviction or, for qualifying dismissals, petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to years in prison for felonies, with specific consequences defined by 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, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Theft conviction record |
| Disorderly Conduct (Va. Code § 18.2-415) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Public disturbance record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) (Va. Code § 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Drug conviction, mandatory minimums for certain amounts |
*Sentencing varies. Grand larceny is punishable by 1 to 20 years, or for property valued under $5,000, it may be punished as a Class 6 felony (1-5 years). Results may vary.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman, is more likely for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445 or more for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our approach in Virginia Beach is informed by direct knowledge of local court procedures and prosecutor strategies.
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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach. These outcomes include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved favorably for our clients.
Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts. We represent individuals throughout the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana communities. For a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront or Naval Air Station Oceana, contact us.
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 carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and cases where the prosecutor drops charges (nolle prosequi) under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more common for felonies. Bond decisions can be reviewed by Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors can result in jail time and create a permanent criminal record. An attorney can protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Virginia Beach, we handle related matters including DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.