In New Kent County, 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 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissals and 1 reduction. Former prosecutors on staff. 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Criminal Law in New Kent County
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). In New Kent County, criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124). Offenses range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 5 felonies (1-10 years). Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. First offender programs under § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion for certain charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings firsthand knowledge of how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
External Legal Resources
Review the official Virginia statutes governing criminal offenses: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and local rules, visit the New Kent County General District Court website.
What to Expect in New Kent County General District Court
New Kent County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these cases. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest or Summons: You are either arrested and taken before a magistrate, or issued a summons to appear in court.
- First Appearance: At New Kent County GDC, the judge advises you of your rights and sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea. Your lawyer can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney before this date.
- Discovery: Your lawyer reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony cases proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
In New Kent County, criminal penalties range from Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 5 felony (1-10 years).
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your New Kent County Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute — a testament to his deep understanding of Virginia law. We provide case-specific strategies case-specific to the facts of your case.
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 results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our New Kent County Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond location serves clients at New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle), accessible via I-64, Route 33, Route 249, and Route 60. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near New Kent County? We are your local option.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in New Kent County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 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 deferred disposition.
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. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to 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 and heard at New Kent County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- New Kent County DUI Lawyer
- New Kent County Family Law Lawyer
- Bryan Block — Criminal Defense Attorney
- Our Richmond Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.