Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand the Virginia Beach General District Court process. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these cases at the Virginia Beach General District Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and forms are available on the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Virginia Beach General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials proceed to Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation or Trial: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may offer a plea agreement, or your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC.
- Appeal or Sentencing: If convicted in GDC, you can appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court. Otherwise, the judge imposes sentence.
- Felony Process: If charged with a felony, a preliminary hearing in GDC determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Virginia Beach
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License | 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 statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Beach Criminal Defense
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. We have a documented record of case results in Virginia Beach courts. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who provides unique insight into traffic-related criminal investigations.
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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach. These results include dismissals, reductions, and favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Representation in Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-64 and I-264. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana. We serve the Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana 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 Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery and petit larceny under $1,000.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (dropped charges). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Virginia Beach General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. A lawyer protects your rights and can seek dismissal or reduction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-eligible offense.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in Virginia Beach, consider our DUI defense lawyer or family law attorney. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.