Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Criminal Charges in Chesapeake, Virginia
Virginia law defines criminal offenses in Title 18.2 of the state code. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500 (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony carries a potential sentence of 1 to 10 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, handles these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia statute.
- Chesapeake General District Court website — court information and procedures.
Chesapeake Court Process for Criminal Cases
Chesapeake General District Court at 307 Albemarle Drive handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
Steps in a Chesapeake Criminal Case
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment in GDC: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Chesapeake General District Court.
- Pre-trial & Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. For felonies, a preliminary hearing in GDC determines if there’s probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Chesapeake Circuit Court for a new trial.
Chesapeake Criminal Penalties
In Chesapeake, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 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 | 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) | Grand Larceny Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | 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 mandatory for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman (charging ~10%), is common for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Experience in Chesapeake Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our approach is based on direct knowledge of how cases are built and prosecuted.
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
Documented Results in Chesapeake
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 case dismissed or found not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesapeake courts, including Chesapeake General District Court at 307 Albemarle Drive, accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Chesapeake, Deep Creek, and Great Bridge.
We serve the Chesapeake area and surrounding communities including Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
24/7 phone consultations — (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 Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, 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 Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesapeake General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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 (GDC) 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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — firm hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
- Chesapeake DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile
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.