Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are heard in General District Court, while felonies proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years, providing a deep understanding of Virginia’s criminal justice system from both defense and prosecution perspectives.
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and forms for New Kent County are available through the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes cases, and defendants have an absolute right to jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge to hear formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: The court determines if you will be released on personal recognizance or must post secured bond through a bail bondsman.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence, files pre-trial motions, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Plea: Your case proceeds to bench trial in General District Court or jury trial in Circuit Court, or you may accept a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines and statutory limits.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a General District Court conviction to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
New Kent County Criminal Penalties
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration: a Class 1 misdemeanor brings up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years imprisonment.
| 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed represent statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, criminal history, and court discretion.
Bond in New Kent County is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10% of the bond amount.
Virginia Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to New Kent County criminal cases. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm maintains a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. Our tagline “Global advocacy. Local precision” reflects our approach to criminal defense in New Kent County.
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 Criminal 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, and 1 charge reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
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 New Kent County courts, accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide criminal defense representation throughout 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. A Class 2 misdemeanor brings up to 6 months and $1,000. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended.
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 deferred disposition.
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 in New Kent County. 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?
Criminal charges in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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 an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Our state hub page with full Virginia criminal law information.
Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Representation in neighboring Henrico County courts.
New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer — Defense for drunk driving charges in New Kent County.
Attorney Bryan Block Profile — Learn more about your New Kent County criminal defense attorney.
Richmond Office Location — Our Richmond location serving New Kent County clients.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.