Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia law categorizes criminal offenses by severity. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries a potential prison term of 1 to 10 years, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the jury’s discretion. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on these charges.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) | New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases.
- After an arrest, a magistrate will set a bond. For many first-offense misdemeanors, personal recognizance (no payment) is common.
- Your first court date is an arraignment at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle) where you enter a plea.
- For misdemeanors, a trial may be scheduled in 4-8 weeks. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is held within 21-60 days.
- If the case proceeds to Circuit Court for a felony, you have an absolute right to a jury trial. This process can take 3-9 months.
- For eligible outcomes like acquittals or dismissals, you can petition for expungement in New Kent County Circuit Court under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to over a decade in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and Class 5 felonies carrying 1-10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Criminal record, possible jail |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. With a documented 4 case results in New Kent County showing a 100% favorable outcome rate, the firm provides full representation grounded in direct courtroom experience. 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County: 3 cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 1 charge was reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse and Colonial Downs, we represent clients in 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?
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. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) 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 in New Kent County 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 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 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 the GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need related services in New Kent County, consider our DUI/DWI lawyer or family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block or visit our Richmond location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.