Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Lexington, Virginia, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington across all practice areas. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a case-specific approach for charges heard at Lexington General District Court.
You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Lexington Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, is the most serious misdemeanor level. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes these cases at the courthouse on 2 South Main Street.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Review the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and location details, visit the Lexington General District Court website.
Lexington Court Process for Criminal Cases
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from General District Court. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 are available; successful completion results in dismissal.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a judge at Lexington General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: If incarcerated, a magistrate or judge will determine if you can be released on personal recognizance or must post a secured bond.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or rights violations.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines, which may include jail time, fines, probation, or alternative programs.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to Lexington Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Lexington
In Lexington, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 | 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) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
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 amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is more common for felonies.
Our Experience in Lexington Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of 14 case results in Lexington across all practice areas. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, providing unique insight into traffic and criminal investigations.
Global advocacy. Local precision.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, Virginia. These results include matters resolved through dismissal, reduction of charges, and favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts on 2 South Main Street, accessible via I-81 and I-64. We represent individuals throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities.
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 Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies, requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%. Bond decisions can be appealed to Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent record. A lawyer can protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you at Lexington General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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
Virginia Criminal Defense Hub: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
Nearby Criminal Defense Lawyers: Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer
Other Practice Areas in Lexington: Lexington DUI/DWI Lawyer | Lexington Family Law Lawyer
Attorney Profile: Learn more about Bryan Block
Our Richmond Office: Visit our Richmond location page
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.