Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Lexington, Virginia, criminal charges like assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. 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.
Virginia Criminal Law in Lexington
Virginia criminal law is defined by Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Lexington, charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Lexington General District Court located at 2 South Main Street. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a unique perspective from both sides of the courtroom.
Last verified: March 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific information, visit the Lexington General District Court website.
Lexington Court Process for Criminal Cases
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Lexington Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from General District Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential plea agreement or reduction.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will proceed to a bench trial in GDC, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or be resolved through a plea.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal a conviction or, for qualifying outcomes, petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Charges 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 to 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, increased insurance |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution, loss of rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and legal representation.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Lexington. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges approximately 10%, is more common for felonies.
Why Choose Our Lexington Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a complete understanding of how cases are built and challenged. We focus on a case-specific approach for clients in Lexington.
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. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions achieved at Lexington General District Court and Lexington Circuit 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 (2 South Main Street). We represent individuals throughout the Lexington area and surrounding communities like those near Virginia Military Institute (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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes, 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 a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Lexington, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the Lexington General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Lexington General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights and can significantly affect the outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Lexington?
Lexington General District Court (GDC) 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.
More Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need assistance with a related matter in Lexington, consider our DUI defense lawyers or family law attorneys. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background as a former Virginia State Trooper.
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.