In Lexington, Virginia, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington. A False Claims lawyer Lexington can provide critical defense for federal allegations.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Lexington
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Misdemeanors are classified as Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) or Class 2 (up to 6 months, $1,000 fine). Felonies range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). A False Claims lawyer Lexington understands the nuances of these classifications. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, has handled thousands of cases across Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Lexington General District Court — Official Court Website
Insider Knowledge: Lexington Court Procedure
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment at Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street).
- Pre-trial motions and discovery exchange.
- Trial or plea negotiation with Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Sentencing or first-offender program enrollment.
- Appeal to Lexington Circuit Court if necessary.
In Lexington, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to significant jail time, depending on the classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Lexington Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.” For federal cases, a federal false claims defense lawyer Lexington can address complex allegations under federal statutes.
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 Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location Serving Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street), accessible via I-81 and I-64. We serve the Lexington community and surrounding areas.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington? We are here to help.
Neighborhoods served: Lexington
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Lexington
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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. Cases are heard at Lexington General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.