In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-11 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Former prosecutors on staff. 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is codified under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In New Kent County, criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the New Kent County General District Court. Misdemeanors are classified from Class 1 (most serious) to Class 4, with penalties ranging from fines to up to 12 months in jail. Felonies are classified from Class 1 to Class 6, with Class 6 carrying 1-5 years in prison. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings firsthand knowledge of prosecutorial strategy to every defense.
Last verified: 2026-04 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for New Kent County Criminal Defense
For the official state statutes governing criminal offenses in Virginia, review Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures, schedules, and local rules, visit the New Kent County General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in New Kent County Court
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Step 1: Arrest or Summons — You are either arrested and taken before a magistrate, or issued a summons to appear in court.
- Step 2: Initial Appearance — Your first court date at New Kent County GDC. The judge advises you of your rights and sets bond if not already set.
- Step 3: Arraignment — You enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). Your lawyer can request discovery and a first-offender program.
- Step 4: Pre-Trial Motions — Your lawyer files motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or negotiate a plea.
- Step 5: Trial or Plea — If no plea agreement, your case proceeds to trial before a judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court on appeal).
- Step 6: Sentencing or Appeal — If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately in GDC. You have 10 days to appeal to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Kent County Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We provide case-specific defense strategies case-specific to the facts of your situation.
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
In New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Your New Kent County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Local and Accessible
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County? We are your local resource for strong defense.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in New Kent County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. 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, petit larceny, and driving on suspended. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
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 (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court. 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.
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 an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
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Last verified: 2026-04. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.