Criminal Defense Lawyer in King William County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in King William County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity: misdemeanors (Class 1 or 2) and felonies (Class 1 through 6). The specific statute determines the classification and penalty range. For example, assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, while grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more is a felony.
Last verified: March 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Refer to these .gov sources for the most current information:
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – official Virginia statute.
- King William County General District Court website – court procedures and contact.
King William County Court Process
King William County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for King William County prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest or Summons: You receive a warrant or summons specifying the charge and first court date.
- Initial Appearance/Arraignment: You appear at King William County General District Court (351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201) to hear the formal charge and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial and Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence. You can appeal a GDC conviction to King William County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in King William County
In King William County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the offense classification under Virginia law.
| 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time likely if suspended for DUI |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and legal arguments.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in King William County. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman (charging ~10%), is common for felonies.
Firm Credentials in Criminal Defense
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 a case-specific approach, drawing on insights from former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understands police investigation tactics.
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 King William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 2 documented criminal defense results in King William County: 2 charges reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts (351 Courthouse Lane). As a criminal defense lawyer near King William County, we represent individuals in King William, West Point, and Aylett. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 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 King William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King William 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 (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at King William County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King William 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 King William County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in King William County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in King William County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King William County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in King William County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in King William County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King William County?
King William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King William 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 Legal Services
Explore our other legal services in Virginia:
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – state-wide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – nearby locality.
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer – nearby locality.
- King William County DUI/DWI Lawyer – related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.