Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
In New Kent County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty and 1 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a strong defense at the New Kent County General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. The New Kent County General District Court hears misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and information for the New Kent County General District Court are available on the Virginia Courts website.
New Kent County Court Process
Your case will begin at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle. This court handles all initial hearings.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal grounds.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential resolutions with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, which may include a plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Disorderly Conduct (Va. Code § 18.2-415) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Possible protective order |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and your defense strategy.
Our Experience in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing full representation for criminal defense matters in New Kent County. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local court procedures.
Bryan Block, Of Counsel (Former Virginia State Trooper)
Bryan Block is a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, and the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Eastern District of Virginia. His background provides a unique advantage in analyzing police reports and challenging evidence in traffic and criminal cases.
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 New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 1 charge reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts on 12001 Courthouse Circle, accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide representation for residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations are available 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.
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, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license. Cases are heard at the 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, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more common for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the 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 the New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry potential jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights and can significantly affect the outcome of your case.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
The New Kent County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in New Kent County, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or family law. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background as a former Virginia State Trooper.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
