In New Kent County, an attempt crime under Va. Code § 18.2-26 carries the same penalty as the completed offense, up to 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County General District Court. Call (888) 437-7747.
What Is an Attempt Crime Under Virginia Law?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-26, an attempt to commit a crime occurs when you take a direct, substantial step toward completing an offense with the specific intent to commit it. The law treats an attempt as a separate crime, and the penalty matches the penalty for the completed offense. For example, attempted grand larceny under Va. Code § 18.2-178 carries the same classification as the completed theft. This means an attempted felony is a felony, and an attempted misdemeanor is a misdemeanor. The prosecution must prove both intent and an overt act beyond mere preparation. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands these distinctions.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-26 (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- New Kent County General District Court — Virginia Courts Website
Insider Procedural Edge for Attempt Cases in New Kent County
In New Kent County General District Court, prosecutors often charge attempt as a lesser-included offense. The court at 12001 Courthouse Circle handles all misdemeanor attempt trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove specific intent — a higher bar than for completed crimes.
- Step 1: Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate at New Kent County.
- Step 2: Bond hearing at New Kent County General District Court.
- Step 3: Arraignment and entry of plea within 4-8 weeks.
- Step 4: Discovery phase — review police reports and witness statements.
- Step 5: Pre-trial motions challenging intent evidence.
- Step 6: Trial or plea negotiation before the judge.
In New Kent County, an attempt crime under Va. Code § 18.2-26 carries the same penalty as the completed offense, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for a Class 1 misdemeanor.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attempted Misdemeanor (Class 1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Attempted Felony (Class 5) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Felony record, voting rights loss |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Attempt Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has handled 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep understanding of Virginia criminal law. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
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 results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ results with a 93%+ favorable rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Attempt Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. We serve New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Attempt lawyer near New Kent County — we are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Attempt Crimes in New Kent County
What is the penalty for an attempt crime in New Kent County?
Yes, under Va. Code § 18.2-26, an attempt carries the same penalty as the completed offense. A Class 1 misdemeanor attempt carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Can an attempt charge be dismissed in New Kent County?
Yes, if the prosecution cannot prove specific intent or a substantial step. Dismissal is possible through pre-trial motions or if the evidence shows only preparation, not attempt.
Do I need an incomplete offense defense lawyer in New Kent County?
Yes, attempt cases require proving specific intent, which is a higher standard. An incomplete offense defense lawyer New Kent County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence of intent.
How does bail work for an attempt charge in New Kent County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanor attempts. Secured bond is typical for felony attempts. Bond can be appealed to the General District Court.
What is the difference between attempt and conspiracy in Virginia?
An attempt requires a direct step toward completing a crime. A conspiracy is an agreement between two or more people to commit a crime. Both are separate offenses under Virginia law.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.