Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand the Virginia Beach General District Court process. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Criminal offenses in Virginia are defined by statute in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The Commonwealth classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties set by law. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense representation based on this statutory framework.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. The Virginia Beach General District Court website provides local rules, forms, and contact information.
Virginia Beach Court Process
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Virginia Beach Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea at Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest; personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and files pre-trial motions.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, a hearing is held in GDC to determine probable cause.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC; felony trials move to Virginia Beach Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you can appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification under Virginia law.
| 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 | Possible suspension | 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 | Restitution, permanent record |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, mandatory minimums possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance is common for many first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%. Public defender eligibility is based on income; a court-appointed attorney fee ranges from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct knowledge of Virginia Beach 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
Case Results in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved without jail time.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44. As a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront and Naval Air Station Oceana, we represent clients throughout 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 carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license. 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. A secured bond is typical for felonies, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10% of the bond amount. Bond decisions can be appealed to the 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 up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers and landlords. Having an attorney protects your rights.
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 potential jail time.
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 need assistance with a related matter in Virginia Beach, consider our Virginia Beach DUI lawyer or Virginia Beach family law lawyer services. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
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.
