Criminal Defense Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more). The law sets penalties, procedures, and defenses for each charge.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s combined legal experience exceeds 120 years.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific information, see the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case will begin at Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials move to Virginia Beach Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any offense with potential jail time.
- Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in Virginia Beach General District Court, are formally advised of charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial and Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or is resolved by plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal or Expungement: You may appeal to Circuit Court or petition for expungement if charges are dismissed.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can mean 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | 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 | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Credentials in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a unique perspective to Virginia Beach criminal defense. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm combines over 120 years of attorney experience. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who understands police investigation tactics from the inside. This experience is applied to defend clients at Virginia Beach General District Court and Circuit Court.
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. Our attorneys work to achieve dismissals, reductions, and favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts. We represent individuals in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Our attorneys are accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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. Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
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 a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to 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. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. An attorney protects your rights, negotiates with prosecutors, and represents you at Virginia Beach General District Court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court 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 offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Resources
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 need assistance with a related matter 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.