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. Common charges in Virginia Beach include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (§ 46.2-301). The law classifies offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with defined penalty ranges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, providing a strategic edge in cases involving financial evidence.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Virginia Beach Court Process: What to Expect
Your case begins at Virginia Beach General District Court for misdemeanors or a felony preliminary hearing. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
- Arraignment: You appear in Virginia Beach General District Court, enter a plea, and the judge may set a trial date.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains police reports and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney negotiates for a reduction or dismissal, or prepares for a bench trial in GDC.
- Jury Trial Demand: For any charge carrying jail, you can demand a jury trial, moving the case to Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer argues for minimal penalties. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for repeat offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years (or 12 months if treated as misdemeanor) | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Authority
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to Virginia Beach cases. Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the firm has a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Virginia Beach criminal defense team includes a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of investigative experience and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. This prosecutorial and law enforcement insight provides a distinct advantage in challenging the Commonwealth’s evidence and negotiating with Virginia Beach prosecutors.
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 Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach, reflecting our local experience. Our approach focuses on seeking dismissals, reductions, and alternative resolutions to protect clients’ records. We analyze each case for procedural weaknesses and evidentiary issues from the initial arrest through trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts, accessible via I-64 and Route 44. We provide criminal defense representation for Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Available 24/7 for phone consultations at (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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
Yes, 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 (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 are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
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.
