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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia law defines crimes in Title 18.2 of the state code. In Chesterfield County, these cases are prosecuted by the local Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, or the Chesterfield County Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court information, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case starts with an arrest or summons. For misdemeanors, your trial will be at Chesterfield County General District Court. For felonies, a preliminary hearing happens there first, then the case moves to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial if the judge finds probable cause.
- Arrest or receive a summons. A magistrate sets bond at the jail.
- First court date (arraignment) at Chesterfield County General District Court. You enter a plea.
- For misdemeanors: pre-trial motions and trial date set. For felonies: preliminary hearing scheduled.
- If felony probable cause is found, the case is certified to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for indictment and trial.
- Discovery, motion hearings, and plea negotiations occur before trial.
- Trial by judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court).
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification under Virginia law.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for repeat |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. In Chesterfield County, we have documented case results showing our approach to local courts.
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, 2 charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts. We represent individuals in 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 heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832).
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 and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Henrico County criminal defense and Colonial Heights criminal defense. In Chesterfield County, we handle related matters like DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
