Facing a carjacking charge in Virginia Beach? Under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1, carjacking is a Class 2 felony carrying 20 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. A Carjacking Lawyer Virginia Beach from our firm can build your defense.
Under Virginia law, carjacking is defined as the intentional seizure or taking of a motor vehicle from another person by force, threat, or intimidation. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-58.1, classifies this as a Class 2 felony. This is distinct from grand larceny of a vehicle because it involves direct confrontation with the victim. A carjacking charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach must understand this critical distinction to build a strong defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has handled these serious charges across Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-58.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For the official statute, visit the Virginia Code § 18.2-58.1 (carjacking). For court information, see the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
In Virginia Beach General District Court, carjacking cases begin with a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must show probable cause. Your Carjacking Lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge identification evidence and police procedures early.
- Step 1: Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Step 2: Preliminary hearing in General District Court within 21-60 days.
- Step 3: If probable cause is found, case moves to Circuit Court for indictment.
- Step 4: Arraignment in Circuit Court where you enter a plea.
- Step 5: Discovery phase where your attorney reviews evidence.
- Step 6: Trial or plea negotiation before a Circuit Court judge or jury.
In Virginia Beach, carjacking under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1 carries a penalty of 20 years to life in prison, with no possibility of parole.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carjacking (§ 18.2-58.1) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | License suspension possible | Loss of firearm rights, permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has been defending clients since 1997. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years, with over 4,739 documented case results firm-wide. Our firm-wide favorable outcome rate is 93%+. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, founded the firm and personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute). Our vehicle theft defense lawyer Virginia Beach team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds carjacking cases.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, former prosecutor and founder, and Bryan Block, former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience.
In Virginia Beach, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264 and I-64. If you need a Carjacking Lawyer Virginia Beach, we are near you. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
What is the penalty for carjacking in Virginia Beach?
Yes, carjacking under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1 is a Class 2 felony carrying 20 years to life in prison. There is no parole in Virginia. A conviction also means losing your right to own firearms.
Can carjacking charges be reduced in Virginia Beach?
It depends. If the vehicle was taken without force or the victim was not present, the charge may be reduced to grand larceny. A Carjacking Lawyer Virginia Beach can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction.
Do I need a lawyer for a carjacking charge in Virginia Beach?
Yes. Carjacking is a violent felony with a mandatory minimum sentence. Without a lawyer, you face the full weight of the Commonwealth’s case. A carjacking charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach can challenge evidence and negotiate.
How long does a carjacking case take in Virginia Beach?
A carjacking case typically takes 3-9 months from arrest to trial in Circuit Court. The preliminary hearing in General District Court occurs within 21-60 days. Speedy trial rights require trial within 9 months if incarcerated.
What is the difference between carjacking and grand larceny in Virginia?
Carjacking requires force, threat, or intimidation against the victim. Grand larceny of a vehicle does not require victim confrontation. Carjacking is a Class 2 felony (20-life), while grand larceny is a Class 5 felony (1-10 years).
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.