Criminal Defense Lawyer in King William County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in King William County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for King William County prosecutes cases at the King William County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, and at the King William County Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | King William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and forms for King William County are available at the King William County General District Court website.
King William County Court Process
Your case will begin at the King William County General District Court located at 351 Courthouse Lane, Suite 201. For misdemeanors, this court conducts the trial. For felonies, it holds a preliminary hearing to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential resolutions with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, which may include reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
- Trial or Hearing: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal or Circuit Court Trial: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction or, for felonies, proceed to a jury trial in King William County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence which may include jail, fines, probation, or other conditions.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in King William County
In King William County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and legal arguments presented.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is more common for felonies.
Our Experience in King William County Courts
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. In King William County, we have documented case results showing our approach to criminal defense.
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 King William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 2 documented criminal defense results in King William County, Virginia. Both cases resulted in charges being reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near King William County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the King William County courts. We are accessible via Route 30, Route 360, and Route 33. We provide criminal defense lawyer services near King William, West Point, and Aylett.
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 King William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King William County 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 and petit larceny under $1,000. Cases are heard at King William County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King William County, 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 King William County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in King William County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King William County General District Court. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in King William County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 2 documented results in King William County. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King William County?
King William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King William County 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 Services
For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. If you are facing charges in nearby areas, our attorneys also serve Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In King William County, we also handle DUI/DWI defense and family law matters. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background as a former Virginia State Trooper.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.