Strangulation Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A strangulation charge in New Kent County is a serious Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, punishable by 1-5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Our strangulation lawyer New Kent County provides 24/7 consultations. Contact a domestic strangulation lawyer New Kent County for immediate help.
Virginia Strangulation Law & Penalties
Strangulation is defined under Virginia law as impeding the normal breathing or blood circulation of another person by applying pressure to the neck or throat, or by blocking the nose and mouth, without consent and with the intent to cause injury or fear. This is a distinct charge from simple assault and battery.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We understand the severe implications of a strangulation charge, which is often charged in domestic contexts and carries significant penalties.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court proceedings for these charges in New Kent County are held at the New Kent County General District Court for preliminary hearings, with felony trials moving to Circuit Court.
Local Court Process for a Strangulation Charge in New Kent County
New Kent County General District Court handles all felony preliminary hearings for strangulation charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases. A strangulation charge defense lawyer New Kent County must be prepared to challenge the evidence at the earliest stage, as these cases often hinge on witness testimony and medical documentation.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: After arrest, you will appear before a magistrate who sets bond. A secured bond is typical for felony strangulation charges.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case starts in New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle). The prosecution must show probable cause that a felony was committed.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case is certified, it moves to New Kent County Circuit Court for formal arraignment and plea entry.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence (police reports, medical records, 911 calls) and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, you have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia’s discretionary sentencing guidelines, with a Class 6 felony carrying 1-5 years.
Potential Penalties for Strangulation in Virginia
In New Kent County, a strangulation charge is a Class 6 felony carrying 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500, with a permanent felony record upon conviction.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (§ 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record; loss of firearm rights; protective order; impact on custody/immigration. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented record in New Kent County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate across 4 cases. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, has a background in accounting and information systems, which is advantageous in cases involving complex evidence.
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
Our firm has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For instance, our team has successfully defended against charges like driving on a suspended license and reckless driving, demonstrating our ability to handle the New Kent County court system effectively. A strangulation charge defense lawyer New Kent County from our firm applies the same rigorous approach to more serious felony allegations.
Contact Our New Kent County Strangulation Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in New Kent County, providing representation at the New Kent County courts on Courthouse Circle. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment.
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Strangulation Charges in New Kent County
Is strangulation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Strangulation under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500.
What is the difference between assault and strangulation?
Strangulation is a specific felony charge for impeding breathing or blood circulation. Simple assault is typically a misdemeanor. The evidence required for strangulation is more specific, often involving testimony about inability to breathe or medical signs of oxygen deprivation.
Can a strangulation charge be dropped?
It depends. Charges can be dropped if the prosecution lacks evidence, if a victim recants and the case cannot be proven without them, or if a defense attorney successfully files a motion to suppress critical evidence. Early intervention by a lawyer is key.
Do I need a lawyer for a strangulation charge?
Yes. A felony conviction carries prison time and a permanent record. A domestic strangulation lawyer New Kent County can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at every stage in New Kent County General District and Circuit Courts.
What are the defenses to a strangulation charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, self-defense, defense of others, false accusation, consent (in certain contexts), and challenging the medical evidence of “impeded breathing or circulation.” An experienced strangulation lawyer New Kent County will investigate all angles.
What happens at a preliminary hearing for strangulation?
In New Kent County General District Court, the prosecutor must show probable cause that you committed the felony. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue to have the charge reduced or dismissed before it goes to Circuit Court for trial.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing related charges, our New Kent County DUI Lawyer can help.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.