Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Criminal Defense Statutes in Chesapeake, Virginia
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges in Chesapeake include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (Va. Code § 46.2-301). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes these cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal code, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (law.lis.virginia.gov). For court information, see the Chesapeake General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
Chesapeake Criminal Court Process
Chesapeake General District Court at 307 Albemarle Drive handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes cases.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate at the Chesapeake jail.
- Arraignment at Chesapeake General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Discovery phase where your attorney obtains evidence from the prosecutor.
- Pre-trial motions and potential plea negotiations.
- Trial in Chesapeake General District Court (misdemeanors) or Chesapeake Circuit Court (felonies).
- Sentencing or post-trial motions, including expungement petitions for dismissals.
Chesapeake Criminal Penalties
In Chesapeake, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years of imprisonment, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum 10 days jail for 3rd offense |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Each case depends on specific facts and evidence.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Chesapeake Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Chesapeake criminal defense team includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, providing unique insight into both prosecution strategies and police procedures. We offer global advocacy with local precision for Chesapeake cases.
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
Chesapeake Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Chesapeake, Virginia: 1 case dismissed or not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality. Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against charges including assault, theft, and drug offenses in Chesapeake courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for similar outcomes.
Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts, accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. We represent clients throughout Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesapeake. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Chesapeake are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (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 Chesapeake?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake 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. Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Chesapeake DUI/DWI Lawyer | Attorney Bryan Block Profile
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 legal guidance.