Virginia punishment for conviction of a misdemeanor criminal offense includes jail time and a fine, in addition to a criminal record.
A misdemeanor is a criminal offense. Virginia has four categories of misdemeanor crimes – ranging from Class 1 (the most serious) to Class 4 (the least serious). Misdemeanors are criminal charges and will be added to, and remain part of, your criminal record if you do not contest the charge or if you are found guilty of the charge.
A misdemeanor for which no punishment or no maximum punishment is prescribed by statute is punished as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Punishments for conviction of a Virginia misdemeanor charge:
(a) For Class 1 misdemeanors: confinement in jail for not more than twelve months and a fine of not more than $2,500, either or both.
(b) For Class 2 misdemeanors: confinement in jail for not more than six months and a fine of not more than $1,000, either or both.
(c) For Class 3 misdemeanors: a fine of not more than $500.
(d) For Class 4 misdemeanors: a fine of not more than $250.
| Misdemeanor Class | Maximum Jail Sentence | Maximum Fine |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | 12 Months in Jail | $2,500.00 Fine |
| Class 2 | 6 Months in Jail | $1,000.00 Fine |
| Class 3 | N/A | $500.00 Fine |
| Class 4 | N/A | $250.00 Fine |
Read more about Virginia crime penalties: Explanation of Virginia Laws and Penalties for Felony, Misdemeanor and Criminal Traffic Offenses
