Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 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. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys provide a case-specific approach for charges heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (Va. Code § 46.2-301).
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly statute.
- New Kent County General District Court website — official Virginia court information.
New Kent County Court Process
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- Arrest or summons: You will receive a court date for New Kent County General District Court.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial: Your attorney negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney and files motions.
- Trial: For misdemeanors, a bench trial occurs in GDC. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is held in GDC, then the case may move to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time mandatory for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is more common for felonies.
Experience in New Kent County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in New Kent County. Founded in 1997, the firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, offering direct insight into case construction and police procedures. Global advocacy. Local precision.
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
Documented Case Results in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 1 charge reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
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 on Courthouse Circle, accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide criminal defense lawyer services near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
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 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 who charges about 10%, is typical for felonies. Bond decisions 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 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. Having an attorney 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 (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 jail time.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.