Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer

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. A Securities Fraud lawyer Virginia Beach can help you understand your legal options.

Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)

Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A crime is defined as an act or omission prohibited by law and punishable by fine, imprisonment, or both. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes all criminal cases in the city. A Securities Fraud lawyer Virginia Beach from SRIS, P.C. can explain how these laws apply to your situation.

For official legal references, consult the Virginia General Assembly — Title 18.2 and the Virginia Beach General District Court website.

Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B processes cases quickly — often within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.

Step 1: Arraignment — Your first court appearance where you enter a plea. You may waive reading of rights.
Step 2: Discovery — Your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney, including police reports and witness statements.
Step 3: Pre-trial Motions — Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural violations.
Step 4: Plea Negotiations — Your attorney negotiates with the prosecutor for reduced charges or alternative sentencing.
Step 5: Trial or Plea — You either accept a plea agreement or proceed to trial before a judge or jury.
Step 6: Sentencing — If convicted, the court imposes sentence. Appeals go to Virginia Beach Circuit Court.

In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration. The table below shows standard penalties for common offenses.

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 extended	Criminal record, possible vehicle impoundment

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

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 has achieved firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” A Securities Fraud lawyer Virginia Beach from our team brings this depth of experience to every case.

Bryan Block — Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). Mr. Block brings unique law enforcement insight to criminal defense cases. He handles criminal and traffic matters across Virginia.

Kristen M. Fisher — Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Ms. Fisher joined the firm in 2010 and handles criminal defense in Virginia and Maryland.

Matthew Greene — 30+ years of experience. Formerly death penalty certified. Handles criminal defense in Virginia and Washington D.C.

In Virginia Beach, SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate.

Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States

Our Richmond location serves clients at Virginia Beach courts (2425 Nimmo Parkway). The office is accessible via I-264, I-64, and Route 44 (VA Beach Expressway).

Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach? Our firm serves Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana.

24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.

Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009

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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine.

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.

How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?

A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies, with a bail bondsman charging approximately 10%.

Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia?

Yes, criminal charges in Virginia Beach are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record.

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.

Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.