Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
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 begin there for preliminary hearings before moving to Circuit Court for 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 prosecution and defense 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 Procedures
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings at 12001 Courthouse Circle. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes cases.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond conditions. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment and Plea Entry: At your first court date, you are formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss based on procedural errors.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Most cases resolve through plea agreements. If no agreement, your case proceeds to bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Criminal Penalties in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor results in 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 | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 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 case specifics, prior record, and court discretion.
Filing fees and bonds: Bond amount is set by the magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings substantial authority to criminal defense in New Kent County. Founded in 1997, our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into case construction and police procedures.
Our documented results in New Kent County show a consistent pattern of favorable outcomes through dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions.
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 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 (12001 Courthouse Circle). The office is accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60, near Colonial Downs Racetrack and the historic New Kent County Courthouse.
We represent clients throughout New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. For immediate assistance, 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: 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 Resources
For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby jurisdictions including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with related matters in New Kent County, consider our DUI/DWI defense or family law services. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.