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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Chesterfield County, criminal cases are heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court located at 9500 Courthouse Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, and even a misdemeanor conviction can have lasting consequences.
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily found in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defines offenses and their penalties. In Chesterfield County, these laws are enforced by local and state police, with prosecution handled by the Chesterfield County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to defending clients against these charges.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Information about the Chesterfield County court where your case will be heard is available on the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process
The criminal process in Chesterfield County begins with an arrest or summons. Your first appearance will be at the Chesterfield County General District Court for misdemeanors or felony preliminary hearings. Felony trials are held in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. The court at 9500 Courthouse Road serves the entire county.
- Initial Appearance and Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: At Chesterfield County General District Court, you are formally charged and enter a plea.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney requests evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and may file pre-trial motions.
- Trial or Resolution: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine for DUI-related suspension |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how cases are built and challenged. We focus on providing full representation case-specific to the details of your situation in Chesterfield County.
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 in Chesterfield County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 2 charges reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park. We serve the Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) 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. Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges in Chesterfield County, consider our DUI/DWI defense or reckless driving defense services. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
