spec_version=V13.3 | generated_date=2026-03-20 | locality=Virginia Beach (City) | state=VA | practice_area=Criminal | assigned_location=Richmond Location | primary_attorney=Bryan Block | source_row=217 | case_results_source=locality-specific | seasonal_hook=no | aggregate_rating_active=no | word_count=1650 | tier=2 | conflicts_detected=none | checker_status=PASS | blocker_count=0 | warning_count=0
Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Beach criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means 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. Our former prosecutor and former state troofer attorneys provide a strong defense at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Virginia Beach Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to theft and drug crimes. The classification of the crime determines the potential penalty range you face.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia Beach General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For court procedures and forms, visit the Virginia Beach General District Court website.
Virginia Beach Court Process and Defense Strategy
Virginia Beach General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Virginia Beach prosecutes these cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea at Virginia Beach General District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction, dismissal, or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal/Expungement: You can appeal a conviction or, for qualifying outcomes, petition for expungement under § 19.2-392.2.
Virginia Beach Criminal Penalties
In Virginia Beach, criminal penalties are set by statute: a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| First Offense Marijuana Possession | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | May qualify for first offender dismissal |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are the maximum under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing full representation in Virginia Beach. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct knowledge of local court procedures.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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
Documented Case Results in Virginia Beach
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 total documented case results across all practice areas in Virginia Beach. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Virginia Beach
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Virginia Beach courts. We represent individuals in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. Contact us for a criminal defense lawyer near Virginia Beach Oceanfront.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Virginia Beach General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
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. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Virginia Beach, we handle related matters including DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.