Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. The New Kent County General District Court handles initial proceedings for all criminal cases originating in the county.
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) on the Virginia General Assembly website. Information about the New Kent County court is available at the New Kent County General District Court website.
New Kent County Court Process
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for New Kent County occur at the New Kent County General District Court located at 12001 Courthouse Circle. Felony jury trials and appeals are handled by the New Kent County Circuit Court.
- After arrest, a magistrate sets a bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Your first court date is an arraignment at the New Kent County General District Court.
- For misdemeanors, a trial date is set. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- If eligible, you may petition for expungement of records for acquittals or dismissals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in New Kent County
In New Kent County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. 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 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 | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 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 minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.
Our Experience in New Kent County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 firm-wide case results. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a distinct perspective on case construction and defense strategy.
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, Virginia. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 1 charge reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. We provide criminal defense representation to residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations are available 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 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, 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?
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 in New Kent County. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical 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 in New Kent County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent record. Having a lawyer protects your rights and can significantly impact the outcome. 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 (GDC) 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with other legal matters in New Kent County, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or 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.