Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Dinwiddie County
Virginia criminal law is defined by Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes offenses from simple assault to felony theft. The law sets specific penalties based on the classification of the crime.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. The firm’s experience includes handling cases from initial arrest through trial.
Last verified: March 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and local rules for Dinwiddie County are available on the Dinwiddie County General District Court website.
Local Court Process in Dinwiddie County
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- After arrest, you will have an initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Your first court date at Dinwiddie County General District Court is the arraignment, where you enter a plea.
- For misdemeanors, the court may set a trial date. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is scheduled to determine if there is probable cause.
- If the case proceeds to Circuit Court for a felony, you have the right to a jury trial.
- Throughout the process, your attorney can file motions, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and prepare your defense.
Criminal Penalties in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, criminal charges carry specific penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor results in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony can lead to 1-10 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 | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, mandatory minimum fine |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on case details.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We maintain a focus on case-specific defense strategies. Our approach is guided by the principle of global advocacy with local precision.
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 Dinwiddie County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in Dinwiddie County: 2 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 2 charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Serving Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Dinwiddie County for residents of Dinwiddie and McKenney. 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 Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Dinwiddie County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and petit larceny. Cases are heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie 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 Dinwiddie County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie 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 Dinwiddie County General District Court. Eligibility for a public defender is based on income.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact our firm for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Dinwiddie County?
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information on criminal defense across Virginia, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. In Dinwiddie County, we handle related matters like DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.