In Lexington, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Contact a Gun Crime Lawyer Lexington today.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia classifies criminal offenses primarily as misdemeanors and felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes all criminal cases in the city. A firearms offense defense lawyer Lexington can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information on Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Court procedures are governed by the Lexington General District Court.
Insider Knowledge: How Lexington Courts Handle Criminal Cases
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 2 South Main Street.
Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from General District Court. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest or summons issued by law enforcement in Lexington.
- Initial appearance before Lexington General District Court magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment where you enter a plea — typically within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the prosecutor.
- Trial or plea hearing before the judge in Lexington General District Court.
In Lexington, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record, possible vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Lexington Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. The firm has achieved firm-wide 4,739+ total documented case results across all practice areas with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to effect real change in Virginia law. A gun charge defense lawyer Lexington from our team understands the local court system and prosecutor practices.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location Serving Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street), accessible via I-81, I-64, Route 11, and Route 60.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington? We serve clients throughout the Lexington area, including Virginia Military Institute (VMI) and Washington and Lee University communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Lexington
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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 Lexington General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes, 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 approximately 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 and heard at Lexington General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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