Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
Lexington criminal charges carry serious penalties under Va. Code Title 18.2 — a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Contact us 24/7.
Virginia Criminal Law: Statutes and Definitions
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges in Lexington include assault and battery under § 18.2-57, petit larceny under § 18.2-96, and driving on suspended under § 46.2-301. Felony classifications include Class 5 (1-10 years) and Class 6 (1-5 years). Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. First-offender programs under § 19.2-303.2 may result in dismissal upon successful completion.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Government Resources
Insider Knowledge: Lexington General District Court
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes all criminal cases in this jurisdiction.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond
- Arraignment in Lexington General District Court within 72 hours
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews evidence
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney
- Trial in General District Court (misdemeanor) or preliminary hearing (felony)
- Appeal to Lexington Circuit Court if needed for jury trial
In Lexington, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Court costs, potential vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Lexington Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Lexington Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street), accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, and Route 60.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington? We serve clients throughout the Lexington area.
Neighborhoods served: Lexington.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Lexington
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 suspended.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
It depends. A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Public defender eligibility is based on income.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
It depends. Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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 Services
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.