Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
Lexington criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington with a 100% favorable outcome rate. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Lexington can help protect your rights and future.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Lexington, Virginia
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Misdemeanors range from Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 4 (up to 30 days, $250 fine). Felonies include Class 5 (1-10 years) and Class 6 (1-5 years). Sentencing follows Va. Code § 19.2-295.1. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Lexington understands these statutes and how they apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information, review the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Lexington General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Lexington Courts
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes all cases here.
First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Step 1: Initial Appearance — You appear before the magistrate at 2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450. Bond is set based on your criminal history and flight risk.
- Step 2: Arraignment — You enter a plea at Lexington General District Court. The court sets a trial date within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Step 3: Discovery — Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Step 4: Pre-Trial Motions — Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Step 5: Trial or Plea Negotiation — Your case proceeds to trial or you negotiate a plea agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Step 6: Sentencing or Appeal — If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately. You have 10 days to appeal to Lexington Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Lexington, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your 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. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. A Theft of Government Property lawyer Lexington from our team knows the local courts and prosecutors.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, founder and former prosecutor, who personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 and brings decades of experience to complex criminal matters.
Case Results in Lexington, Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Lexington Criminal Defense Services
Distance: Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450), accessible via I-81 and I-64.
Near-Me: Looking for a “criminal defense lawyer near Lexington” or “Theft of Government Property lawyer Lexington”? We are here to help.
Neighborhoods Served: Lexington and surrounding areas.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Lexington
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Lexington General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
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 approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.