Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges in New Kent County include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (Va. Code § 46.2-301). These cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle.
Last verified: March 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and forms for New Kent County are available on the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
Your case will begin at the New Kent County General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials are held in New Kent County Circuit 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 charged 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: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential plea agreement or diversion program.
- Trial: 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.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal a conviction or, for qualifying outcomes, 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 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in New Kent County
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. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. We focus on providing full representation with a case-specific approach.
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 found not guilty, and 1 charge was reduced or amended, resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We are a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
We serve the New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton areas 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 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 and petit larceny under $1,000. Cases are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, 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 New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent record. Our firm has 4 documented results in New Kent County. Contact us 24/7 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 handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County 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 Services
For more information, see 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 also handle DUI/DWI defense and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.