Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia’s criminal code defines offenses and penalties in Title 18.2. The New Kent County General District Court handles initial hearings and misdemeanor trials. The firm was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing an advantage in cases involving financial evidence.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Virginia General Assembly). The local court’s procedures and contact information are available at the New Kent County General District Court website.
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 appeals from the General District Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at New Kent County General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The court determines if there is probable cause to send a felony case to Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Trial: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any jail-time offense, which moves the case to Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Criminal Penalties in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry significant 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-20 years | 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 | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more likely for felonies.
Our Experience in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local procedures in New Kent County courts.
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 charge was 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.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts on Courthouse Circle. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault, petit larceny, 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?
Yes, 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, requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. 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 impact the outcome of your case.
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 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 on criminal defense across Virginia, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges in New Kent County, consider our DUI/DWI defense or reckless driving defense services. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.