Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Lexington, Virginia, criminal charges like assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys provide a case-specific approach for your defense at Lexington General District Court.
Criminal defense in Lexington involves handling the Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street, where the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes charges ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault or petit larceny under $1,000, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500 (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny, carries 1 to 10 years in prison, though a jury can reduce the punishment to a misdemeanor level. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed knowledge of the law to build defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website for Title 18.2. For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Lexington General District Court official website.
Lexington Court Process and Defense Strategy
Your case begins at the Lexington General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The court serves the city of Lexington from its location at 2 South Main Street.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: Appear before a magistrate at the Rockbridge Regional Jail or Lexington General District Court for bond determination.
- Arraignment and Plea Entry: Formally hear the charges and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest at Lexington General District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Discovery: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Review the Commonwealth’s evidence through discovery.
- Negotiation or Trial Preparation: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a plea agreement or prepare for a bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, present mitigation for sentencing. If found guilty in GDC, you can appeal 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 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 | 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 | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500* | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory jail possible |
*A jury can reduce a Class 5 felony punishment to a misdemeanor level (up to 12 months/$2,500). Results may vary.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal cases in Lexington. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing direct insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We have a documented record of results for clients in the Lexington area.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas for Lexington, Virginia. These results include matters resolved favorably for our clients. Every case is unique, and we work to achieve the best possible outcome based on the specific facts and law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. As a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington, we represent individuals throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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: 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 heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
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 deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
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. Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Lexington, we handle related matters such as DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.