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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies based on severity. A Class 1 misdemeanor, like simple assault under § 18.2-57, is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony, such as grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more under § 18.2-95, carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. This background provides direct insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For procedures and information specific to the local court, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process
Your case begins at the Chesterfield County General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes all cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any charge carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear in General District Court, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Appeal or Circuit Court Trial: You can appeal a GDC conviction or demand a jury trial in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Post-Trial: Explore options for appeal or, if eligible, petition for expungement under § 19.2-392.2.
Criminal Penalties in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to over a decade in prison for serious felonies. The classification determines the maximum possible sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent record |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | N/A | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Felony record, mandatory minimums possible |
*For grand larceny, a jury can alternatively recommend a misdemeanor penalty (up to 12 months/$2,500). Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is standard for felonies.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to your defense. Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the firm has achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to handling Chesterfield County cases.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal defense results specific to Chesterfield County: 3 cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 2 charges were reduced or amended to lesser offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). As a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield County, we represent clients from Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you need assistance with related matters in Chesterfield County, consider our services for DUI defense or family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
