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 with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at Lexington General District Court.
Criminal defense in Lexington involves handling the Lexington General District Court at 2 South Main Street, where misdemeanors are tried and felony preliminary hearings are held.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, defined under Va. Code Title 18.2. 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. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed knowledge of the Virginia code to build defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific information, forms, and hours, refer to the Lexington General District Court website.
The Lexington Court Process
Your case will begin at the Lexington General District Court. This court handles all misdemeanor trials and the initial hearings for felonies. If your case is a felony, it may move to Lexington Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Initial Court Appearance: Appear at Lexington General District Court for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve your rights.
- Review Discovery: Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- File Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional violations or procedural errors exist.
- Negotiate with Prosecutor: Your attorney will negotiate with the Lexington Commonwealth’s Attorney for reduced charges or alternative dispositions.
- Prepare for Trial: If no agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Lexington Circuit Court.
- Post-Trial Options: After trial, explore appeals to Circuit Court or expungement if the case results in dismissal or acquittal.
Potential Penalties for Lexington Criminal Charges
In Lexington, a criminal conviction carries significant penalties including jail time, fines, and a permanent record.
| 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, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time mandatory for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and your defense strategy.
Why Choose Our Lexington Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a documented record of 14 case results in Lexington across all practice areas. Our team includes Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement insight, providing a unique advantage in challenging evidence and police procedure.
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, Virginia, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts handled at the Lexington General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
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 like those near VMI and Washington and Lee University. 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
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?
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. 14 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) 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 Defense Lawyer – Our state 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.
Our Richmond Location – Office serving Lexington.
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 current guidance.