Criminal Defense Lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Prince George County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison. The Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
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, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for Prince George County are available on the Prince George County General District Court website.
Prince George County Criminal Court Process
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. The magistrate sets bond—personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County files charges. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: Appear in Prince George County General District Court to hear charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery: Your attorney requests all evidence from the prosecution.
- Pre-trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors exist.
- Plea Negotiation: Discuss potential plea agreements with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial: Present your case before a judge in General District Court or a jury in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
Prince George County Criminal Penalties
In Prince George County, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: Class 1 misdemeanor up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine; Class 5 felony 1-10 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum 10 days for 3rd offense |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Prince George County Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience. We have documented results in Prince George County. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal cases.
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 Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Prince George County. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients at Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). We represent clients throughout the Prince George and Hopewell area, accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Prince George County, Fort Gregg-Adams, and the James River area.
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 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended. Cases are heard at Prince George County General District Court.
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 is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince George County General District Court. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Prince George County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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.
Related Criminal Defense Resources
For more information about criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you need representation in nearby areas, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. For related legal services in Prince George County, see our DUI/DWI lawyer in Prince George County or family law lawyer in Prince George County. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background and experience.
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.