Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a case-specific approach for your defense at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more). The classification determines the potential penalty range you face.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). The Virginia Beach General District Court website provides local forms, rules, and contact information.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges 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: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may present a plea offer. Your attorney will advise you on its merits versus trial risks.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence within the statutory range, which may include jail, fines, probation, or alternative programs.
- Appeal/Expungement: You can appeal a General District Court conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial. Expungement may be available for dismissals or acquittals under § 19.2-392.2.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the offense classification under Virginia law.
| 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, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums under statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest—personal recognizance is common for many first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. A secured bond is typical for felonies (a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%).
Firm Credentials in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our Virginia Beach criminal defense team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement insight and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney.
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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved without a conviction.
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 (2425 Nimmo Parkway). We represent individuals throughout the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana communities. Consultations are available 24/7 by phone at (888) 437-7747—meetings are 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 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: 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 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 deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Virginia Beach 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 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 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 jail time.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach DUI lawyer or Virginia Beach family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
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.