Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The New Kent County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – Official Virginia statute.
- New Kent County General District Court website – Court information and procedures.
New Kent County Court Process
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. For misdemeanors, your trial will be at the New Kent County General District Court. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is held there before a potential jury trial in New Kent County Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear in New Kent County General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal grounds.
- Negotiation: Your attorney discusses potential plea agreements or diversion programs with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, to Circuit Court for a jury trial, or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines and the facts of your case.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court. If charges are dismissed, you can petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Disorderly Conduct (§ 18.2-415) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Community service possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are 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 in New Kent County, personal recognizance (no payment) is common. For felonies, a secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman (charging approximately 10%).
Our Experience in New Kent County Courts
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 focus on providing full representation in New Kent County, drawing on direct knowledge of local court procedures and prosecution strategies.
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 New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in New Kent County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide criminal defense lawyer services near 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, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, 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. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 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 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 record. An attorney protects your rights and works toward the best possible outcome.
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 GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
- New Kent County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures can change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.