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Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony can result in 1-10 years in prison. The New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
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 website – court information and procedures.
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 GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The court determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to trial in GDC (misdemeanor) or Circuit Court (felony), or a plea agreement is reached.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You can appeal a GDC conviction to New Kent County 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. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 | 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 6 or 5) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Experience in New Kent County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled 4 documented criminal cases in New Kent County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience.
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
New Kent County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense 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 our New Kent County clients.
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 New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We are a criminal defense lawyer 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 (Va. Code Title 18.2). A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
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. 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 are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for jail-time offenses.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – parent hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – nearby locality.
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer – nearby locality.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer – related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – primary attorney.
- Richmond Office Location – serving New Kent County.
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.
