In Virginia Beach, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented case results in Virginia Beach. An Aiding and Abetting lawyer Virginia Beach can help you understand your legal options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes all criminal cases in the city. An Aiding and Abetting lawyer Virginia Beach from SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for clients facing charges at the Virginia Beach General District Court.
For more information, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea at Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B).
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence against you.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony cases proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately or at a later hearing. Appeals go to Virginia Beach Circuit Court.
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felonies (1-5 years in prison).
| 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 |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. The firm’s favorable outcome rate exceeds 93%. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute for Virginia family law.
8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway), accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44 (VA Beach Expressway).
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach? Our firm represents clients in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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 heard at Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456).
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 (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456). 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.
An aiding criminal activity lawyer Virginia Beach from SRIS, P.C. can provide guidance on your specific situation.
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