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Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law defines offenses by class. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious, with penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. These cases are prosecuted by the Virginia Beach Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Virginia Beach General District Court or Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and information, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Virginia Beach General District Court. You will enter a plea, and the court will address bond. For misdemeanors, a trial date is set. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is scheduled to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Appear before a judge, enter a plea, and address bail conditions.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Negotiate a favorable plea agreement or proceed to a bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, present mitigation for sentencing. You have the right to appeal a GDC verdict to Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries 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 under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our Virginia Beach criminal defense team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who provides unique insight into police procedures and evidence challenges.
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
Virginia Beach Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas. Our attorneys work to achieve dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-64 and I-264. We provide criminal defense representation for Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Contact us 24/7 for phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are 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.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense FAQs
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and petit larceny. Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is typical for felonies. You can appeal the bond decision to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. An attorney can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and negotiate for a better outcome. Contact us 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Services in Virginia Beach
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Virginia Beach, we handle related matters like DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated from Virginia Beach court records and statutes. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
