Virginia Crimes: Laws & Penalties

Virginia Criminal Statute of Limitations

Statutes of limitations set time limits for the government to file criminal charges in a case. If the prosecution charges someone after the applicable time period has passed, the person charged can have the case dismissed.

Virginia Misdemeanor Crimes by Class and Sentences

Virginia lawmakers classify misdemeanors as class 1, 2, 3, or 4.

Virginia Felony Crimes by Class and Sentences

In Virginia, felonies are punishable by incarceration in state prison. Less serious crimes (misdemeanors) are punishable by up to 12 months in jail.

Expunging or Sealing Adult Criminal Records in Virginia

Virginia’s expungement laws are restrictive, but there are a few circumstances under which you can apply to have your criminal record sealed.

Driving on a Suspended License in Virginia

The Commonwealth of Virginia may suspend or revoke your license for many reasons. You may be charged with a Class 1 misdemeanor if your drive while your license is suspended or revoked.

Virginia Minor in Possession of Alcohol: Laws & Penalties

A minor in Virginia may not buy (or attempt to buy), possess, or consume alcohol; or provide false identification or a false age to obtain or consume alcohol.

Possession of a Controlled Substance in Virginia

All states regulate the possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS), though each differs in its exact definition of CDS and the penalties for illegal possession. Virginia classifies not only well-known drugs like marijuana, heroin, and cocaine as CDS, but also the compounds used to manufacture them.

Virginia Embezzlement Laws

Embezzlement is a type of larceny. It occurs when a defendant, who was entrusted to manage or monitor someone else's money or property, steals all or part of that money or property for the defendant's personal gain.

Virginia Laws on Petit and Grand Larceny and Shoplifting

Like many states, Virginia classifies its larceny offenses according to the value of the stolen property—and, in some cases, according to the type of property involved in the larceny. Find out how quickly larceny goes from a misdemeanor to a felony.

Weapons Charges in Virginia

Learn about Virginia’s restrictions on possessing, carrying, and using guns and other deadly weapons.

Malicious and Unlawful Wounding in Virginia

In Virginia, the crime of malicious wounding is committed by intentionally causing injury to another person with the intent to kill or very seriously injure the victim. Unlawful wounding and strangulation are less serious crimes.