How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in New Kent County
The cost of a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County depends on the nature of the charge, the complexity of the case, and the experience of the attorney. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. focuses on criminal defense across Virginia, and Mr. Sris along with Bryan Block represent clients facing charges at the New Kent County General District Court and Circuit Court. A traffic infraction or misdemeanor typically involves lower fees than a serious felony, but every case is different. The firm offers consultations by appointment so you can discuss your situation and understand the potential scope of legal representation. To speak with us about your matter, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Criminal Defense Means in New Kent County
New Kent County lies along the I-64 corridor between Richmond and Williamsburg, and its criminal docket reflects both the local community and the through traffic on the interstate. A person charged with a crime in this locality faces prosecution by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in one of two courts. Misdemeanor cases—including simple assault, petit larceny, trespass, and disorderly conduct—are heard at the New Kent County General District Court, located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124. Felony charges, such as grand larceny, burglary, serious drug offenses, or aggravated assault, begin with a preliminary hearing in the General District Court and are tried in the New Kent County Circuit Court.
Virginia law sets clear penalty ranges that apply in New Kent County. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 under Va. Code Title 18.2; a Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Felonies are more severe. A Class 5 felony, such as simple abduction or certain drug offenses, exposes a defendant to one to ten years in prison, while a Class 6 felony may result in one to five years. The specific statute under which a person is charged determines the maximum sentence, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney has discretion in how each case proceeds. Several documented case results in New Kent County reflect the importance of early legal involvement; for example, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has obtained dismissals and favorable amendments in cases involving excessive vehicle length and a reduced speed charge. Results may vary. Past outcomes do not guarantee a similar result.
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-11. Va. Code § 18.2-11
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA, MD, DC, NJ, NY.
A Class 2 misdemeanor in Virginia is punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a fine of up to $1,000.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-11. Va. Code § 18.2-11
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA, MD, DC, NJ, NY.
A Class 5 felony in Virginia carries a sentence of one to ten years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500 at the discretion of the jury or judge.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-10(e). Va. Code § 18.2-10
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA, MD, DC, NJ, NY.
How Bryan Block and the Firm Handle Criminal Cases in New Kent County
Bryan Block leads the firm’s criminal defense work in New Kent County. As a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement service, he brings a perspective shaped by years of conducting and supervising traffic and criminal investigations across the region. His familiarity with police procedures, field sobriety testing protocols, and evidence gathering often helps identify procedural missteps or weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, contributes strategic insight into how the prosecution is likely to approach a given charge. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team evaluate the facts, examine discovery, and explore every available avenue—from negotiating an amendment or reduction to preparing for a contested hearing or jury trial.
The firm appears regularly at the New Kent County General District Court, where misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings take place, and at the New Kent County Circuit Court for felony trials and appeals. Because every charge carries different risks, early involvement can matter. A Class 1 misdemeanor assault charge, for example, may trigger collateral consequences that affect employment or security clearance, while a felony drug offense carries mandatory minimum provisions in certain circumstances. The attorneys work with each client to identify realistic goals and to pursue a course that fits the individual facts, whether that is seeking a diversion or first-offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, pushing for dismissal, or contesting the charge at trial. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and Bryan Block
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced law since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. His background includes service as a prosecutor and testimony before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Bryan Block, an Of Counsel attorney with the firm, served 15 years as a Virginia State Trooper before beginning his legal career in 2004. His trooper experience gives him a rare working knowledge of the enforcement side of criminal and traffic law. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved more than 4,739 documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a criminal defense lawyer cost in New Kent County?
The cost depends on the severity of the charge, the attorney’s experience, and the time the case requires. A straightforward misdemeanor may involve a flat fee, while a complex felony that goes to trial will typically cost more. Factors like the number of witnesses, the need for expert testimony, and whether the case is resolved early or litigated all affect the total. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations so you can discuss your charges and understand the anticipated scope and cost of representation. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule an appointment.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor in New Kent County?
A misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record, so having an attorney is important even for a seemingly minor charge. Many people believe a Class 1 or Class 2 misdemeanor is not serious, but a conviction can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses. An experienced attorney can assess the evidence, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and explore options such as a first-offender program or dismissed charge. At the New Kent County General District Court, Bryan Block appears regularly and is familiar with local procedures.
What happens at the first court appearance in New Kent County General District Court?
The first appearance, known as an arraignment, is when the court informs you of the charge and you enter a plea. For misdemeanors, the court may set a trial date at that time; for felonies, the matter is typically continued for a preliminary hearing. You have the right to be represented by counsel, and it is advisable to have your attorney present at this stage. Bond conditions may also be reviewed if you are in custody. The court is located at 12001 Courthouse Circle, New Kent, VA 23124.
Can I get a criminal charge expunged in New Kent County?
Virginia allows expungement for charges that were dismissed, for which you were acquitted, or where a nolle prosequi was entered, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in New Kent County Circuit Court. If you qualify, the process allows you to seek removal of police and court records related to the charge. An attorney can help determine your eligibility and prepare the necessary filing. Results may vary.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Virginia?
A misdemeanor is punishable by up to 12 months in jail, while a felony carries a sentence of more than one year in state prison. Misdemeanors are heard in the General District Court; felonies are prosecuted in the Circuit Court, where you have a right to a jury trial. Felony convictions also carry additional long-term consequences, including loss of firearm rights and potential voting restrictions. The classification of the offense affects the fee and the legal strategy.
How does bail work in New Kent County?
A magistrate sets bail shortly after arrest, and many first-offense misdemeanors are released on personal recognizance without payment. For more serious charges, a secured bond may be required, which can involve a bail bondsman. The bond amount can be reviewed or appealed in the New Kent County General District Court. Your attorney can argue for lower bail or release on recognizance at the bond hearing.
Does the firm handle DUI and traffic cases in New Kent County?
Yes, Bryan Block leads the firm’s work on DUI, reckless driving, and serious traffic offenses in New Kent County. His background as a Virginia State Trooper gives him insight into the traffic enforcement and breath-test procedures that often form the basis of these cases. A DUI conviction carries mandatory license suspension and other consequences, so early legal advice is important. Call (888) 437-7747 to discuss your specific traffic charge.
What should I bring to my first consultation with a criminal defense lawyer?
Bring any paperwork you received from the police or the court, including the summons, warrant, or bond papers. Also useful are any documents related to the alleged offense, a list of witnesses, and notes about what happened. The more information you provide, the better your attorney can evaluate your case. The consultation is confidential, and you can ask any questions you have about the process, costs, and possible outcomes.
Can I get a first-offender program for a drug or property charge in New Kent County?
Virginia offers first-offender programs for certain drug possession offenses under Va. Code § 18.2-251 and for certain property crimes under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion of the program can result in the charge being dismissed. Eligibility depends on the specific charge and your criminal history. An attorney can explain whether you may qualify and guide you through the requirements, which often include probation, community service, and substance-abuse treatment.
How do I reach the firm about a criminal case in New Kent County?
Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. The firm’s Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts, and appointments are available by phone or in person. We answer calls 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For directions or to discuss your matter, reach our location at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225. (804) 201-9009.
Virginia primary legal sources:
Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) ·
New Kent County Circuit Court ·
Virginia Courts
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary. Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.