In Chesterfield County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries 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. A Child Exploitation Lawyer Chesterfield County understands the high stakes of these charges.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Understanding Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor 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. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). A Child Exploitation Lawyer Chesterfield County must know these statutes inside out.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
What to Expect in Chesterfield County Court
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at 9500 Courthouse Road. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment in General District Court within 72 hours.
- Pre-trial conference with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Misdemeanor trial or felony preliminary hearing in GDC.
- If convicted, appeal to Circuit Court for a new trial within 10 days.
- Sentencing hearing if convicted or plea agreement reached.
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines up to $2,500 to prison terms of 10 years or more.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. A Child Exploitation Lawyer Chesterfield County from our team uses this depth of experience to build strong defenses.
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to shape Virginia law. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand how the Commonwealth builds its 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
Chesterfield County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Examples include a Not Guilty verdict for profane language over public airway (Va. Code § 18.2-427) and a dismissal for purchase/possess alcohol (Va. Code § 4.1-305).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesterfield County Location
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360. We serve Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Looking for a child exploitation defense lawyer Chesterfield County near you? We are near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. 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?
It depends. A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. 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?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. 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.
Related Practice Areas
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Colonial Heights Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer
- Chesterfield County Family Law Lawyer
- Bryan Block Attorney Profile
- Richmond Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.