Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
A criminal charge in Lexington is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented results in Lexington. Our firm provides full representation for assault, theft, drug possession, and DUI cases heard at Lexington General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a case-specific approach.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by statute. A Class 1 misdemeanor, like simple assault, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony, such as grand larceny over $1,000, carries 1-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, uses this legal knowledge to build strong defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Review the Virginia criminal statutes at the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). For court procedures, visit the Lexington General District Court website.
Lexington Court Process for Criminal Cases
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at 2 South Main Street.
- Arraignment: You appear in Lexington General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond; personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pre-trial motions to challenge the case.
- Plea Negotiation: Your lawyer negotiates with the prosecutor for a reduced charge or alternative disposition.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you can appeal a GDC decision to Lexington Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Lexington
In Lexington, a criminal charge carries a penalty range from up to 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor to 1-10 years for a felony. Filing fees and bonds vary.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| First Offense Marijuana Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program eligible |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case details.
Experience in Lexington Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into case construction. We focus on the details of each case to seek a favorable outcome.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts (2 South Main Street). We are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve the Lexington area and surrounding 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 Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 are heard at Lexington General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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 Legal Information
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Lexington, we handle related matters including DUI defense and family law. 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.