Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
What Is a Criminal Charge in New Kent County?
Virginia law defines crimes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A criminal charge is a formal accusation by the Commonwealth that you violated a state law. Charges range from misdemeanors (less serious) to felonies (more serious). The New Kent County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Refer to these .gov sources for the full text of Virginia criminal statutes and court information:
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly website.
- New Kent County General District Court website — Virginia’s official court site for local procedures.
New Kent County Court Process for Criminal Cases
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.
- Arrest or Summons: You receive a warrant or summons to appear in court.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, hear the formal charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial & Discovery: Your lawyer reviews evidence and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal to Circuit Court or petition for expungement if eligible.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a criminal charge carries penalties from fines and probation to years in prison, depending on the offense classification under Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, theft record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution, loss of rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the New Kent County court.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Kent County Defense?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
In New Kent County, our local insight comes from direct experience with the court procedures at 12001 Courthouse Circle. We understand how local prosecutors approach cases and what strategies work in this jurisdiction.
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
Documented Case Results in New Kent County
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. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these local cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case. Each case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide representation for residents of 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (when the prosecutor drops the charge). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court.
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 (requiring a bail bondsman) is typical for felonies. You can appeal the bond decision to the New Kent County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. 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. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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 GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense with potential 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 New Kent County, consider our DUI/DWI defense lawyer or family law lawyer services. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block or our Richmond location.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated from court records and Virginia statutes as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance specific to your situation.