Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more (Va. Code § 18.2-95), is punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – Official Virginia General Assembly statute.
- New Kent County General District Court – Official court website for case information.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for New Kent County occur at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle. Felony jury trials and appeals are handled by the New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable plea agreement.
- 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 may appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial.
New Kent County Criminal Penalties
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Disorderly Conduct (§ 18.2-415) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | — |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | — | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) (§ 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Drug education program |
*Or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the discretion of the jury. Results may vary.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman (approx. 10% fee), is standard for felonies.
Our Experience in New Kent County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of 4 case results in New Kent County with a 100% favorable outcome rate for those matters. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, providing unique insight into traffic and criminal investigations.
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, Virginia. 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.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We represent individuals throughout the New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton communities, accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249.
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 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. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
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. A secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman (approx. 10% fee), is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. An attorney can negotiate for dismissal, reduction, or explore first offender programs to protect your future.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court (GDC) 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving a neighboring county.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your assigned attorney.
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.