In Lexington, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries 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. A False Claims lawyer Lexington can help you understand your rights and build a defense strategy.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Lexington, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
Understanding Criminal Charges in Lexington
Virginia criminal law is codified under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Lexington, criminal offenses range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felonies (1-5 years imprisonment). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Lexington prosecutes all criminal cases. A False Claims lawyer Lexington understands the specific procedures at Lexington General District Court and Lexington Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for Lexington Criminal Cases
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly
- Lexington General District Court — official Virginia Courts website
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Lexington Courts
Lexington General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 2 South Main Street, Lexington, VA 24450. Cases typically proceed from arraignment to trial within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Arrest or Summons: You are either arrested or receive a summons to appear in court.
- Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea. The court sets a trial date.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial: Bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court imposes penalties within statutory ranges.
Penalty Ranges for Criminal Offenses in Lexington
In Lexington, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time. The table below shows standard classifications and penalties under Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record, insurance rate increase |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Lexington Criminal Case?
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 has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our tagline — “Advocacy Without Borders” — reflects our commitment to clients in Lexington and throughout Virginia.
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating the depth of legal knowledge our firm brings to complex cases. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
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
Lexington Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 14 total documented case results across all practice areas in Lexington with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Visit Our Richmond Location Serving Lexington
Our Richmond location serves clients at Lexington courts (2 South Main Street). The drive from our Richmond office to Lexington takes approximately 1.5 hours via I-64 West and I-81 North. We serve clients throughout Lexington and surrounding areas.
Criminal defense lawyer near Lexington — we are available 24/7 to discuss your case.
Neighborhoods served: Lexington
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Lexington
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Lexington, Virginia?
Yes. 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 $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 are heard at Lexington General District Court.
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 deferred disposition.
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 approximately 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 visible to employers. 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 Practice Areas and Locations
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Statewide hub page
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Nearby locality
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Nearby locality
- Lexington DUI/DWI Lawyer — Related practice area
- Lexington Family Law Lawyer — Related practice area
- Bryan Block Attorney Profile
- Richmond Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.