Fraud Lawyer New Kent County, VA
Facing fraud charges in New Kent County, Virginia, can be intimidating. Under Virginia law, fraud offenses—such as obtaining money by false pretenses under Va. Code § 18.2-178—are treated as larceny. Depending on the value of the property involved, the charge may be a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor cases are heard at the New Kent County General District Court, located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124; felony cases proceed to the New Kent County Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense representation to individuals in New Kent County and across the Ninth Judicial District. Our Richmond location, at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225, makes us easily accessible along I-64. To discuss your case, call (888) 437-7747.
What Fraud Charges Mean in New Kent County
Fraud charges in Virginia are serious. The state treats many fraud offenses—including obtaining money by false pretenses, credit card fraud, and computer fraud—as larceny, which is categorized as either petit or grand larceny. Where the value of the property exceeds $1,000, the charge is grand larceny, a felony; otherwise, it is a Class 1 misdemeanor. In New Kent County, misdemeanor fraud cases are prosecuted in the General District Court, while felony charges move to the Circuit Court.
Penalties upon conviction can include incarceration, fines, restitution, and a permanent criminal record. The following claim reflects the statutory range for a Class 1 misdemeanor—the classification that applies to many first-offense fraud charges under Va. Code § 18.2-178.
In Virginia, a Class 1 misdemeanor is punishable by confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-11. Virginia Code § 18.2-11
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
A felony fraud conviction carries a prison term of one to twenty years, and the court may also impose a substantial fine. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for New Kent County prosecutes these matters. Early involvement of defense counsel is crucial to protect your rights and to explore potential resolutions, including pretrial diversion or a negotiated reduction.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Fraud Cases
When you retain Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys begin by examining the prosecution’s evidence—financial records, digital account statements, witness interviews, and the manner in which any investigation was conducted. The firm’s Of Counsel includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, which provides a valuable perspective on how evidence was gathered and whether procedural errors occurred.
The team works to identify weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case, negotiate with the prosecutor to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges, and, when appropriate, prepare for trial. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, understands the tactics the Commonwealth’s Attorney may use. The firm’s goal is to achieve favorable outcomes for each client while ensuring that the client’s side of the story is fully presented.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. As a former prosecutor, he brings a thorough understanding of criminal prosecution to the defense of his clients. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).
The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include experienced litigators and a former Virginia State Trooper who contributed to criminal investigations for over a decade. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a fraud conviction in New Kent County?
The penalty for fraud in New Kent County depends on whether the charge is a misdemeanor or felony. Under Virginia law, fraud offenses such as obtaining money by false pretenses are punished according to larceny classifications. If the value at issue is under $1,000, the offense is a Class 1 misdemeanor, which can mean up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the value is $1,000 or more, it is grand larceny, a felony carrying a prison sentence of one to twenty years and a possible fine. Restitution may also be ordered. The exact sentence is influenced by the defendant’s criminal history and the specific facts of the case.
How does bail work in New Kent County?
After an arrest in New Kent County, a magistrate sets bail. For many first‑offense misdemeanor charges, the magistrate may release the accused on a personal recognizance bond without requiring payment. If the charge is a felony, the magistrate typically sets a secured bond; a bail bondsman may charge approximately 10% of the bond amount. The defendant can request a bond review in the New Kent County General District Court. Eligibility for a public defender or court‑appointed counsel is determined by income.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent County?
Expungement is available in Virginia for charges that result in acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a person whose charge was dismissed may petition the New Kent County Circuit Court to expunge police and court records. Most convictions cannot be expunged. However, if a fraud charge is reduced or dismissed, expungement may remove the record of the arrest and court proceedings, which can be important for employment and housing. An attorney can advise whether your situation qualifies.
Do I need a lawyer for a fraud charge in New Kent County?
Yes, it is strongly advisable to have a lawyer when facing a fraud charge. Even a misdemeanor fraud conviction can create a permanent criminal record that affects employment, housing, and professional licenses. An experienced attorney can evaluate the evidence, identify procedural issues, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or alternative disposition. In New Kent County courts, navigating the procedural requirements and timelines demands knowledge of local practice, making representation especially important.
What is the difference between General District Court and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
The New Kent County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; the Circuit Court handles felony trials and appeals from the General District Court. If you are charged with a felony fraud offense, the case begins in General District Court with a preliminary hearing to determine whether probable cause exists, then proceeds to Circuit Court if certified. You have the right to a jury trial for any offense carrying potential jail time. The court is located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124.
Our firm also represents clients facing criminal allegations in neighboring jurisdictions, including Fairfax County, Prince William County, and Manassas.
For more information on Virginia fraud statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 and the New Kent County General District Court website.
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Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.