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 with a 100% favorable outcome rate. An Aiding and Abetting lawyer Virginia Beach can help you understand your legal options.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Virginia Beach
Virginia criminal law is codified primarily in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes all criminal cases in the city.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official court information, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website. The state statute governing criminal offenses is available at Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly).
How Criminal Cases Work in Virginia Beach General District Court
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion for qualifying defendants.
- Arrest or summons issued by magistrate.
- First appearance at Virginia Beach General District Court for bond and arraignment.
- Discovery phase — your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations.
- Trial in General District Court (misdemeanor) or preliminary hearing (felony).
- Appeal to Circuit Court if needed within 10 days.
In Virginia Beach, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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) | Felony | 1-20 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 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 to every case. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Our team also includes Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Matthew Greene, who brings 30+ years of criminal defense experience. An accessory charge defense lawyer Virginia Beach can explain how Virginia law treats accomplice liability.
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 achieved 4,739+ case 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 the Virginia Beach Expressway. We serve Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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.
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 a $1,000 fine. 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. 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 is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 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. 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.
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.
Learn more about Virginia criminal defense. Our firm also serves Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need an aiding criminal activity lawyer Virginia Beach, contact us today.
Related services: Virginia Beach DUI defense | Virginia Beach family law
Meet our team: Bryan Block, Former VA State Trooper | Visit our Richmond location
Last verified: 2026-04. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.