Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Lexington, Virginia, criminal charges like assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 documented case results in Lexington. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a case-specific approach to defend you in Lexington General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault or petit larceny under $1,000, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500 (Va. Code § 18.2-11). Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 5 (1-10 years). The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to build strong defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia statute.
- Lexington General District Court website — court information and procedures.
Lexington Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Lexington occur at the Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Lexington Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Initial Appearance: Appear at Lexington General District Court for arraignment, where charges are formally read and you enter a plea.
- Secure Legal Representation: Consult with a criminal defense lawyer to review evidence and develop a case strategy.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Negotiation or Trial: Engage in plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney or proceed to a bench trial in GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, present mitigation evidence at sentencing. You have the right to appeal to Lexington Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Lexington
In Lexington, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time likely |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Lexington Criminal Defense?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing deep insight into how cases are built and challenged. We focus on full representation, handling the details of Lexington General District 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
Case Results in Lexington
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington, with a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results include charges dismissed, reduced, or resolved favorably for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Lexington, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We represent individuals throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities. For a criminal defense lawyer near Lexington General District Court, contact us 24/7 for phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 Lexington, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Lexington 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 Lexington General District Court (2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450). 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, 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 Lexington Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Lexington are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Lexington 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 Resources
- Virginia Criminal Lawyer — state-level hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — serving a nearby locality.
- Lexington DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area in Lexington.
- Attorney Bryan Block profile — learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.