Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to petit larceny (§ 18.2-96) and driving on a suspended license (§ 46.2-301). Each charge has specific elements the Commonwealth must prove beyond a reasonable doubt at New Kent County General District Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court procedures and forms, refer to the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
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 appeals from the General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors exist.
- Plea Negotiation: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may offer a reduced charge or alternative disposition.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you have the right to appeal a General District Court conviction to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification of the offense under Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 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 (§ 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 (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are the maximum under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the judge.
Our Experience in New Kent County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We focus on providing full representation in New Kent County, understanding the local court procedures and the approach of the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
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 resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 1 case was reduced or amended to a lesser charge.
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, Route 249, and Route 60.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
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 a deferred disposition program.
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. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights and can significantly affect the outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in New Kent County, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
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.