Criminal Defense Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a case-specific approach for your defense at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This section defines offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to theft and drug crimes. The classification of your charge—misdemeanor or felony—directly determines the court, potential penalties, and defense strategy.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and forms, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process
Your case begins at Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
- Arraignment: You will hear the formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets conditions for release. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases resolve through negotiation. If not, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding of guilt, the judge imposes sentence. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a new trial.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal penalties are set by state law. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our approach is guided by direct insight into how cases are built and prosecuted.
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 Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts handled at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts. We represent individuals throughout Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Our Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer is accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44.
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 Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be reviewed in Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Virginia Beach General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. A lawyer protects your rights and builds your defense.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach DUI lawyer or Virginia Beach family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.