Kristin Leigh Paulding, Criminal Defense Attorney in Virginia Beach, Virginia

Kristin concentrates on criminal defense, juvenile, and sex crimes. Each area below outlines the kind of case Kristin handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

  View other Criminal Defense attorneys

• Juvenile

  View other Juvenile attorneys

• Sex Crimes

  View other Sex Crimes attorneys

Kristin's primary office is at 291 Independence Blvd., Virginia Beach, VA, 23462. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Kristin usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Kristin discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Kristin for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Kristin walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Kristin offer a free consultation?

  Kristin charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Kristin's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Kristin's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in Virginia typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Kristin gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Kristin take my case if I'm outside Virginia Beach?

  Kristin is licensed in Virginia. Matters governed by Virginia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Kristin will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Kristin?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Kristin will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Kristin accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Kristin's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.