Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges are serious, with a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach, providing defense for charges from assault to theft. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand the Virginia Beach General District Court system.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses, classifications, and penalties. For example, assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more) is a felony under § 18.2-95. The law also provides for expungement of certain records under § 19.2-392.2 and first-offender programs under § 19.2-303.2.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process: What to Expect
Your case will begin at the Virginia Beach General District Court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway. This court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials move to Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential plea agreement or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding of guilt, the judge imposes sentence. You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal penalties are set by statute and vary by offense classification. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor (e.g., Assault & Battery § 18.2-57) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension for driving offenses | Permanent criminal record |
| Class 2 Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible suspension for driving offenses | Permanent criminal record |
| Class 5 Felony (e.g., Grand Larceny § 18.2-95) | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Court discretion | N/A | Felony record, loss of civil rights |
| Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Court discretion | N/A | Felony record, loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the judge.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. For many first-offense misdemeanors, personal recognizance (no payment) is common. For felonies, secured bond is typical, requiring a bail bondsman (who charges approximately 10%). Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony, based on income eligibility.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Virginia Beach Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how cases are built and challenged. We focus on strategic defense, from negotiating first-offender diversions to vigorous trial advocacy.
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
Virginia Beach Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in matters heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts. We are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We provide representation for clients throughout Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
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 Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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 a suspended license. Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Virginia Beach General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. An attorney can protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you at trial.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Virginia Beach, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about your attorney, Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.