Criminal Defense Lawyer in King William County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in King William County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, is the most serious misdemeanor level. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The King William County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-11 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines misdemeanor penalties.
- King William County General District Court website – Court information and procedures.
King William County Court Process
King William County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction routinely evaluate cases for first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at King William County General District Court.
- Discovery: Your attorney obtains police reports and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation: Your attorney discusses possible plea agreements with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you may appeal to King William County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in King William County
In King William County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years in prison. Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest.
| 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 |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program eligible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in King William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have achieved 2 documented results in King William County. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
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 King William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 2 documented results in King William County: 2 charges reduced or amended, resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts (351 Courthouse Lane). We are a criminal defense lawyer near King William County, accessible via Route 30, Route 360, and Route 33. We serve the King William, West Point, and Aylett communities.
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 King William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King William 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 petit larceny. Cases are heard at King William County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King William 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 King William County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in King William County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King William County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in King William County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at King William County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. An attorney can protect your rights and seek a favorable outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King William County?
King William County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King William County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
Related Legal Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Nearby locality.
- King William County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your attorney.
- Our Richmond Location – Office information.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.