Criminal Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
A criminal charge in New Kent County is a serious matter, prosecuted at the New Kent County General District Court under Virginia law. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County.
Virginia Criminal Law and Penalties
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined by statute. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault or petit larceny, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 under Va. Code § 18.2-11. Felonies carry more severe consequences; a Class 6 felony can result in 1 to 5 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the discretion of a jury. The specific penalties you face depend on the charge, your prior record, and the circumstances of your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the Virginia Code (law.lis.virginia.gov). Information about court procedures and locations for New Kent County can be found on the Virginia Courts website (vacourts.gov).
Handling a Criminal Case in New Kent County
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for New Kent County occur at the New Kent County General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for the county prosecutes these cases. For any charge with potential jail time, you have an absolute right to a jury trial, which would be held in the New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, skilled to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Secure Representation: Contact a criminal attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. Do not speak to investigators without counsel.
- Initial Hearing: Attend your arraignment at the New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle) to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Case Review: Your defense lawyer will obtain discovery from the prosecutor, review evidence, and identify weaknesses in the case.
- Strategy Development: Based on the evidence, your attorney will advise on options—negotiating a plea, seeking a diversion program, or preparing for trial.
- Resolution: Your case may be resolved through a motion to dismiss, a plea agreement, or a trial in either General District or Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In New Kent County, a criminal charge can lead to jail time, fines, a permanent record, and loss of driving privileges.
| 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 | Possible | Protective order, permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | No | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Additional DMV points, mandatory minimum fine |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | No | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds a case. We have a documented record of results for clients facing criminal charges defense in Virginia courts.
Case Results in New Kent County
Our firm has documented results in New Kent County, including cases dismissed, clients found not guilty, and charges reduced. For example, our team has successfully defended clients against charges such as assault, larceny, and driving offenses in the New Kent County General District Court. Kristen M. Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, contributes significant prosecutorial insight to our defense strategies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Lawyer Near New Kent County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts, accessible via I-64 and Route 33. If you are searching for a “criminal lawyer near New Kent,” we provide representation for residents of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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: 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 are heard at New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County, Virginia?
It depends. 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. 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 criminal record visible to employers. A criminal court lawyer can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
The New Kent County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing charges in New Kent County, you may also want to learn about DUI defense or reckless driving. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.