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 state troofer attorneys provide full representation at Lexington General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a case-specific approach.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from Class 1 misdemeanors, like simple assault (§ 18.2-57), to felonies such as grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more (§ 18.2-95). The classification determines the potential penalty range.
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 (law.lis.virginia.gov). For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Lexington General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
Local Court Process in Lexington
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Lexington cases are held at the Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes these cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Lexington Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- 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 Discovery and Motions: Review all evidence (discovery) from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC or negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor for reduced charges.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, present mitigation evidence at sentencing. For misdemeanors, you can appeal to Lexington Circuit Court for a new trial.
Criminal Penalties in Lexington, Virginia
In Lexington, criminal offenses carry penalties defined by Virginia law, ranging from fines for minor infractions to years of incarceration for felonies.
| 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 (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and court discretion.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for many first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is more common for felonies.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
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. Our Richmond location serves the Lexington area, providing direct access to attorneys with firsthand knowledge of Lexington General District Court procedures.
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, with a 100% favorable outcome rate in our recorded data. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in Lexington General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Representation Near Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts (2 South Main Street). As a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington and the surrounding Rockbridge County area, we are accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve the Lexington community, including areas near Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington and Lee University.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 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.
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
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.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in Lexington, consider our DUI defense lawyer or family law lawyer services. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is updated from court records and statutes as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.