Criminal Defense Lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Prince George County, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code Title 18.2) to Class 5 felonies (1-10 years). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Prince George County. Our Richmond location serves clients facing prosecution at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive).
A criminal conviction creates a permanent record visible to employers and can impact employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Virginia Criminal Law in Prince George County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Prince George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, while Prince George County Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information: Prince George County General District Court website.
Prince George County Criminal Court Process
The criminal process in Prince George County begins with arrest and bond setting by a magistrate. First-offense misdemeanors often receive personal recognizance bonds, while felonies typically require secured bonds through a bail bondsman. Cases proceed through Prince George County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings.
- Initial arrest and bond hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond is typical for felonies.
- Arraignment at General District Court: Appear at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive) to enter a plea. Misdemeanor trials are scheduled here.
- Preliminary hearing for felonies: For felony charges, a preliminary hearing determines if probable cause exists to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court proceedings: Felony jury trials occur at Prince George County Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Sentencing and post-trial options: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia guidelines. Eligible outcomes may qualify for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Prince George County Criminal Penalties
In Prince George County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines.
| 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 | 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, criminal history, and court discretion.
Virginia Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal defense cases across Virginia. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal proceedings.
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
Prince George County Criminal Defense Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Prince George County. Our attorneys work to achieve dismissals, reduced charges, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing prosecution at Prince George County General District Court and Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients at Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive), accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We represent clients throughout Prince George and the Hopewell area. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. 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 heard at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George 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 Prince George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Prince George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Prince George County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince George County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Prince George County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive, Prince George, VA 23875). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince George 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 jail time.
Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
For more information: Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. See also criminal defense in nearby localities: Henrico County criminal defense lawyer and Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. Related practice areas in Prince George County: DUI/DWI lawyer and family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.