Strangulation Lawyer Lexington — What Are Your Defense Options?
A strangulation charge in Lexington, Virginia, is a serious Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented case results in Lexington. A skilled strangulation lawyer Lexington can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, which often hinges on witness testimony and medical findings. Contact our firm for a 24/7 consultation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Lexington General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Strangulation is specifically defined under Virginia law as impeding the normal breathing or circulation of blood by applying pressure to the neck or throat. This charge is distinct from simple assault and is treated with severe penalties due to the high risk of serious injury or death. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, elevates what might be charged as a misdemeanor assault to a felony when strangulation is alleged.
For official statute text, see Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures are handled at the Lexington General District Court for preliminary hearings, with trials occurring in Lexington Circuit Court.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or summons.
- Your attorney will request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- We will analyze medical reports and witness statements for inconsistencies.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the charge.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction or prepare for trial.
- Present a defense at trial in Lexington Circuit Court if no agreement is reached.
In Lexington, a strangulation charge is a Class 6 felony punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (§ 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Firearm prohibition, permanent felony record, protective order. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex criminal defense. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in dissecting complex evidence.
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
Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has secured favorable outcomes in Lexington. In one case, a felony assault charge was amended to a lesser offense, avoiding prison time. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Lexington courts. We are a strangulation charge defense lawyer Lexington for residents throughout the area. Contact a domestic strangulation lawyer Lexington for a case review.
Lexington Strangulation Charge FAQs
Is strangulation always a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, strangulation is specifically classified as a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison.
What is the difference between assault and strangulation?
Strangulation involves impeding breathing or blood circulation by pressure on the neck/throat, making it a separate, more serious felony. Simple assault is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can a strangulation charge be reduced?
It depends. An experienced strangulation lawyer Lexington can negotiate with prosecutors for a reduction to a misdemeanor assault charge based on evidence weaknesses, the defendant’s history, and case circumstances.
What are common defenses to a strangulation charge?
Defenses may include lack of intent, false accusation, self-defense, consent (in limited contexts), or challenging the medical evidence that breathing or circulation was actually impeded.
Will I go to jail for a first-time strangulation charge?
While a prison sentence is possible, a strong defense focused on mitigation and alternative resolutions can seek a non-custodial outcome like probation, especially for first-time offenders.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and with related issues such as DUI defense in Lexington.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.