Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in the Virginia Code, primarily Title 18.2. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. In New Kent County, cases begin at the New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County 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 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and forms for New Kent County are available through the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
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.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a judge at New Kent County General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: If you are detained, a magistrate will set a bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review the evidence and may file pre-trial motions to challenge the prosecution’s case.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, a hearing is held to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Trial: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You may appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in New Kent County
In New Kent County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification of the offense 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 possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.
Filing fees and bonds: Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is common for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony, based on income eligibility.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have achieved 4,739+ favorable case results firm-wide, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to handling cases in New Kent County and across multiple states.
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 were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 1 case was reduced or amended to a lesser charge. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these documented cases in this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Local Representation in New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts, including the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. As a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County, we serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All 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 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. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
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, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is common 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 can result in jail time and create a permanent criminal 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 the 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 on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In New Kent County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.