In Virginia Beach, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties 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. A Kickbacks lawyer Virginia Beach can help you understand your options.
Virginia Criminal Law: Statutory Framework
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 Kickbacks lawyer Virginia Beach can explain how these classifications apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach 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
- Virginia Beach General District Court — Official Court Website
Insider Procedural Edge: Virginia Beach General District Court
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes all cases. First offender programs are available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 — successful completion results in dismissal.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment in Virginia Beach General District Court within 72 hours.
- Discovery phase: exchange evidence with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations.
- Trial in General District Court (bench trial) or Circuit Court (jury trial).
- Sentencing or appeal within 10 days of conviction.
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration. A Kickbacks lawyer Virginia Beach can explain the specific penalties you face.
| 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 | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extension | Criminal record, vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Virginia Beach 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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. A Kickbacks lawyer Virginia Beach from our team can provide the experience you need.
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. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44 (VA Beach Expressway). We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach — we are here to help.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Virginia Beach
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 $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, 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. Contact SRIS 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.