Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-11 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at the New Kent County General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges in New Kent County include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (Va. Code § 46.2-301). These cases are prosecuted by the New Kent County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – Official Virginia statute.
- New Kent County General District Court website – Court information and procedures.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at New Kent County General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials proceed to New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court, enter a plea, and the judge sets a trial date.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The court determines if there is probable cause to send a felony charge to Circuit Court.
- Trial or Plea: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court, or a plea agreement is reached.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial.
New Kent County Criminal Penalties
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, increased insurance |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Our Experience in New Kent County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of results in New Kent County courts. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who provides unique insight into traffic and criminal investigations.
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 dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended, reflecting a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
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 on 12001 Courthouse Circle, accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide representation for residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
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 and petit larceny under $1,000. 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) 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. 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. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving a neighboring county.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in New Kent.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.