False ID Lawyer New Kent County — Defending Against Fake Identification Charges
Using or possessing a false ID in New Kent County is a serious offense under Virginia law, often charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing fake identification charges.
Virginia Law on False Identification
Virginia law prohibits several acts related to false identification. The primary statute is Va. Code § 18.2-204.1, which makes it illegal to sell, give, or lend a driver’s license or DMV identification card to another person for fraudulent use. More broadly, Va. Code § 18.2-204 addresses forging public records, seals, and signatures, which can encompass creating fake government IDs.
Common charges related to a false ID lawyer New Kent County might defend include identity fraud (§ 18.2-186.3), obtaining money or property by false pretenses (§ 18.2-178), and perjury (§ 18.2-434) if the false ID is used under oath. For minors using a fake ID to purchase alcohol, additional charges under Virginia’s ABC laws may apply.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
External Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s laws on forgery and false identification, visit the Virginia Legislative Information System. For local court procedures and information, refer to the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
New Kent County Court Process for False ID Charges
False identification cases in New Kent County typically begin in the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. An experienced false ID lawyer New Kent County knows that prosecutors often seek convictions to deter fraud, but defenses exist, such as lack of intent to defraud or mistaken identity.
Here is a general overview of the process a false ID lawyer New Kent County would manage:
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence if the ID was obtained through an unlawful search or to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor, potentially seeking a dismissal, reduction in charges (e.g., to disorderly conduct), or entry into a first-offender program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court. You have the right to appeal to New Kent County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Dismissal: If convicted, the judge will impose sentence. If acquitted or the charges are dropped, your attorney can begin the expungement process.
Potential Penalties for False ID Charges
In New Kent County, a false identification charge can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, carrying significant jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense (Virginia Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Forgery of Public Record (§ 18.2-168) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None directly | Permanent felony record; loss of professional licenses. |
| Identity Fraud (§ 18.2-186.3) | Class 1 Misdemeanor (if value < $1,000) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record; potential restitution. |
| False Statement to Police (§ 18.2-461) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record; impacts credibility. |
| Minor Using Fake ID for Alcohol | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspended for 6 months to 1 year | Community service; alcohol education. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your False ID Defense
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. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a false ID charge, often seen as a youthful mistake, can have long-term consequences for employment, education, and housing. Our false ID lawyer New Kent County approach focuses on protecting your future.
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 New Kent County
Our team has a documented track record in New Kent County courts. We have achieved 4 local results with a 100% favorable outcome rate, including dismissals and charge reductions. For instance, our attorneys have successfully defended against charges of “Obtaining Money by False Pretense,” a related fraud offense, securing dismissals in Circuit Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex fraud cases is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a distinct advantage in analyzing financial evidence often associated with fake identification charges.
False ID Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We represent individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
False ID Charges in New Kent County: Frequently Asked Questions
Is using a fake ID a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Simple possession or use of a fake ID is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if it involves forging a government document (like a DMV license) or is part of an identity fraud scheme exceeding $1,000 in value, it can be charged as a felony. A false ID lawyer New Kent County can analyze the specific facts of your case.
What should I do if I’m charged with a fake identification charge in New Kent County?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a false ID lawyer New Kent County immediately. Your attorney will obtain the evidence, review the charges for weaknesses (like illegal search), and begin building a defense strategy, which may involve negotiating for a first-offender program or dismissal.
Can a false ID charge be expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. If your charge is dismissed, you are found not guilty, or the prosecution enters a nolle prosequi, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A fraudulent ID defense lawyer New Kent County can advise if you qualify.
Will I go to jail for a first-time fake ID offense?
Not necessarily. For a first-time misdemeanor fake ID charge, especially for a minor, prosecutors and judges in New Kent County often consider alternatives to jail, such as probation, community service, fines, or a first-offender program that leads to dismissal. An experienced false ID lawyer New Kent County can advocate for this outcome.
What’s the difference between a fake ID and identity theft?
A fake ID is a physical document that misrepresents your identity (like age or name). Identity theft (Va. Code § 18.2-186.3) involves using someone else’s personal identifying information without permission to commit fraud. Using a fake ID with another person’s real information could lead to both charges. A false ID lawyer New Kent County can clarify the allegations.
For more information on related defenses, see our pages on Virginia Criminal Defense or similar issues in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are also facing traffic consequences, a New Kent County DUI lawyer may be relevant.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding false ID charges.