Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Lexington, Virginia, criminal charges like assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented results in Lexington. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a case-specific approach to defend you in Lexington General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. A Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor level, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11. Common Lexington charges include assault and battery, petit larceny (theft under $1,000), and driving on a suspended license. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 5 (1-10 years, or up to 12 months at jury discretion).
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia Legislative Information System. For court procedures and locations, refer to the Lexington General District Court website.
Lexington Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins at Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials and appeals are heard in Lexington Circuit Court.
- Initial Court Appearance: Appear at Lexington General District Court for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all rights and request a trial date.
- File Pretrial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Negotiate with Prosecutor: Your lawyer negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington for reduced charges or alternative dispositions like first offender programs.
- Prepare for Trial: If no plea agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Lexington Circuit Court for felony charges.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Lexington
In Lexington, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, theft record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Lexington Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement insight and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. We provide full representation with a focus on the procedural details of Lexington General District Court.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, Virginia, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in Lexington General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We represent individuals throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities. For 24/7 phone consultations, call (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 Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington 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 Lexington, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (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 Lexington?
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. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in Lexington, consider our DUI/DWI lawyer or family law lawyer. Learn more about Bryan Block.
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.