Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A crime is an act or omission forbidden by law and punishable upon conviction. Crimes are classified as felonies or misdemeanors based on potential punishment. Felonies are more serious offenses punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility. Misdemeanors are less serious but still carry jail time in a local facility.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Virginia Beach Court Process: What to Expect
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear in Virginia Beach General District Court, enter a plea, and the judge sets a trial date.
- Discovery: Your attorney requests evidence from the prosecutor, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Trial or Negotiation: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a negotiated plea agreement is reached.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs. You can appeal to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for a new trial.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison. A Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years.
| 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Theft conviction record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and legal representation.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on criminal defense in Virginia Beach. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct knowledge of local court procedures.
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
Virginia Beach Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach across all practice areas, with a 100% favorable outcome rate in this locality. These results include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved without jail time.
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 Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-64 and Route 44. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 means up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended. 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 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 in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Virginia Beach General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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 an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.