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Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny. The law also establishes sentencing guidelines under § 19.2-295.1 and expungement procedures for acquittals or dismissals under § 19.2-392.2. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed statutory framework to build strong defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process: An Insider’s View
Your case begins at Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials move to Virginia Beach Circuit Court. Prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle all cases.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases resolve through negotiation. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal or Expungement: You can appeal a conviction. If charges are dismissed, you may petition for expungement.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Impoundment of vehicle |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Filing fees and bonds: Bond is set by a magistrate. A secured bond for felonies typically requires a bail bondsman (approx. 10% fee). Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience and a track record of 4,739+ firm-wide case results. We offer global advocacy with local precision for Virginia Beach clients. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep involvement in Virginia law.
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, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved favorably for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 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 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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to 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 carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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 Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with related matters in Virginia Beach, consider our DUI defense or family law services. 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.
