Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
A criminal charge in New Kent County requires immediate legal attention to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses and penalties. In New Kent County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases ranging from traffic infractions to felonies. The court process begins at the New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary felony hearings. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this experience to handle the details of your case.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly statute.
- New Kent County General District Court website — Virginia court system information.
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 GDC appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes. First offender programs are available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 — successful completion results in dismissal.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in GDC, hear charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Resolution: Most cases resolve through plea negotiation. If not, a bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court follows.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs. Appeals from GDC go to Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry specific penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 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+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Our Experience in New Kent County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing clear guidance for criminal cases in New Kent County. Our approach is based on direct communication and a detailed review of the evidence against you.
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: 3 cases were dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge was reduced or amended, resulting in 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 the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. Our office is accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We are a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse and Colonial Downs.
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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
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. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
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. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
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 (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 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 an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state-wide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — serving a neighboring locality.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area in the same locality.
- Attorney Bryan Block profile — learn more about your assigned attorney.
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 updated guidance.