Murder Defense Lawyer Virginia Beach, VA
You have been arrested on suspicion of murder in Virginia Beach. The
Commonwealth’s Attorney is building a case that could put you in prison for decades, or
even the rest of your life. Every word you speak to law enforcement can be used against
you. You need an experienced defense attorney who knows the Virginia Beach court system.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals facing homicide charges
in Virginia Beach City General District Court and Circuit Court. Mr. Sris and his Of
Counsel team are available to discuss your situation. Call (888) 437-7747 to
request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Defending Against a Murder Charge in Virginia Beach
When you are charged with murder in Virginia Beach, the prosecution must prove every
element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt. A strong defense examines every angle:
the credibility of witnesses, the reliability of forensic evidence, the legality of the
police investigation, and any possible constitutional violations. Mr. Sris and his Of
Counsel are experienced in identifying weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case and
developing a defense strategy tailored to the facts.
Virginia law distinguishes between first-degree murder and second-degree murder. The
charge level and potential penalty depend on the specific allegations. In many cases,
the defense may seek to have the charge reduced — for example, to voluntary
manslaughter — or to negotiate a favorable outcome through plea discussions. Plea
bargaining is permitted under
Va. Sup. Ct. R. 3A:8, and the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to
amend charges if the evidence supports it. An attorney familiar with Virginia Beach
prosecutors can evaluate whether such a resolution is possible.
What to Expect in Virginia Beach Courts
Murder cases are felonies and proceed in the Virginia Beach Circuit Court after a
preliminary hearing in the General District Court. At the preliminary hearing, the
Commonwealth must show probable cause that a felony was committed and that you
committed it. If probable cause is found, the case is certified to the Circuit Court
for trial. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in the Circuit Court. The court
is located at 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Building 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456. Our Richmond
location regularly represents clients at this courthouse.
The timeline of a murder case varies depending on the complexity of the investigation,
the volume of evidence, and the court’s calendar. Your attorney will handle every stage:
obtaining discovery, filing motions to suppress evidence if appropriate, challenging
expert testimony, and preparing for trial. Throughout the process, communication with
your defense team is essential.
Penalties for Murder Under Virginia Law
The penalties for murder are severe. Under
Va. Code § 18.2-32, first-degree murder is a Class
2 felony, punishable by imprisonment for 20 years to life. Second-degree
murder carries a sentence of 5 to 40 years. These are statutory ranges
and the actual sentence imposed depends on the facts of the case, the defendant’s
criminal history, and the discretion of the judge. A conviction also carries
lifelong collateral consequences, including loss of firearm rights and voting
disabilities. There is no parole for a life sentence in Virginia.
First-degree murder in Virginia is a Class 2 felony, punishable by
20 years to life; second-degree murder is punishable by 5 to 40 years imprisonment.
Source: Va. Code § 18.2-32.
Virginia Law Portal
Reviewed by Mr. Sris, admitted in VA/MD/DC/NJ/NY.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has
practiced law since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who now devotes his practice to
defending individuals charged with serious crimes. Mr. Sris testified before the
Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron
Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District
of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York.
Mr. Sris is joined by Of Counsel attorneys who bring extensive criminal defense
experience, including a former Virginia State Trooper with firsthand knowledge of
police procedures. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of
combined legal experience, and the firm has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am facing a murder charge in Virginia Beach?
Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately and do not speak
with law enforcement without counsel. You have the right to remain silent and
the right to an attorney. Any statement you make can be used against you. The earlier
a lawyer becomes involved, the sooner your defense can begin. Mr. Sris and his Of
Counsel are available at (888) 437-7747 to discuss your situation.
Request a consultation to understand your legal options and how your case will proceed
through the Virginia Beach courts.
How does a Virginia defense lawyer defend against a murder charge?
Defense strategies may include challenging the evidence, examining
procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating
factors. A defense attorney evaluates every aspect of the case: whether the
police obtained evidence lawfully, whether witness identifications are reliable,
whether forensic tests were properly administered, and whether alternative explanations
for the death exist. In Virginia, the Commonwealth must prove guilt beyond a
reasonable doubt. An attorney experienced in murder defense can identify weaknesses
in the prosecution’s case and advocate for a reduction of charges when the evidence
supports it.
What are the penalties for murder in Virginia?
First-degree murder is a Class 2 felony punishable by 20 years to life
imprisonment; second-degree murder carries 5 to 40 years. A person convicted
of first-degree murder must serve at least 20 years before being eligible for parole;
life sentences have no parole. In addition to imprisonment, a murder conviction results
in the loss of civil rights, including the right to vote and possess firearms. The
actual sentence depends on the facts of the case and the defendant’s prior record.
For a more detailed breakdown, see the statutory authority above.
Can murder charges be reduced to a lesser offense in Virginia?
Yes, under certain circumstances a murder charge may be reduced to
manslaughter or another lesser offense through a plea agreement or prosecutorial
discretion. The Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to amend the charge if the
evidence does not clearly establish premeditation or malice. Even if trial proceeds,
a jury may find the defendant guilty of a lesser included offense. Experienced defense
counsel can negotiate with the prosecutor and present evidence that supports a
reduction. Every case is unique, and results vary.
Do I need a lawyer for a murder defense in Virginia Beach?
Yes, a murder charge is the most serious offense under Virginia law and
requires immediate legal representation. The stakes are life and liberty.
Without an attorney, you risk losing critical procedural rights, missing deadlines,
and harming your defense. A lawyer can file motions, challenge evidence, negotiate
with the prosecutor, and protect your constitutional rights at every stage. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations by appointment; call (888) 437-7747
to speak with a member of our team.
How much does a murder defense lawyer cost in Virginia Beach?
Legal fees for murder defense vary widely depending on the complexity of
the case, the stage at which representation begins, and the anticipated duration of
the proceedings. Murder trials often involve extensive discovery, expert
witnesses, and multiple court appearances, all of which affect the overall cost. During
an initial consultation, Mr. Sris or his Of Counsel can discuss the fee arrangement
for your specific situation. The firm offers payment plans in appropriate cases.
Contact us at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
Related criminal defense pages:
Criminal Lawyer Fairfax County ·
Criminal Lawyer Fairfax City ·
Criminal Lawyer Falls Church ·
Criminal Lawyer Prince William County ·
Criminal Lawyer Manassas
To discuss your murder defense case, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
at (888) 437-7747. Our Richmond location serves clients in Virginia
Beach: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225.
By appointment only.
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.