Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Chesterfield County criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended. Spring break often brings increased arrests for public intoxication, underage drinking, and possession in Chesterfield County.
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court, while felonies proceed to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for trial.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm combines over 120 years of legal experience.
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. Information about Chesterfield County court procedures is available at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court. The court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
- Attend your arraignment to enter a plea and request a court-appointed attorney if eligible.
- Review discovery with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Consider pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Evaluate plea offers versus trial risks with your attorney’s guidance.
- If charged with a felony, decide whether to have a preliminary hearing in GDC or proceed directly to Circuit Court.
- Prepare for trial in the appropriate court—GDC for misdemeanors, Circuit Court for felonies.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and Class 5 felonies carrying 1-10 years.
| 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 | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time likely for repeat offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond through a bail bondsman (charging approximately 10%) is typical for felonies.
Experience in Chesterfield County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings former prosecutor insight to Chesterfield County cases. Founded in 1997, the firm combines over 120 years of attorney experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, Va. Code § 20-107.3.
Client feedback highlights effective communication and strong courtroom advocacy in Chesterfield County matters.
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 results in Chesterfield County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 2 charges reduced or amended—a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We represent individuals throughout Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield County available for 24/7 phone consultations at (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. 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.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond 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?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Related Legal Services
For more information about criminal defense throughout Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring jurisdictions including Henrico County criminal defense and Colonial Heights criminal defense.
If you need related legal services in Chesterfield County, consider DUI/DWI defense or family law representation.
Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.