If you are facing fraud charges in Chesterfield County, Virginia, you are confronting serious consequences under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Chesterfield County and can help protect your rights. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Fraud Lawyer Chesterfield County, Virginia
Fraud in Chesterfield County, Virginia, is prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-178, which criminalizes obtaining money or property by false pretenses. This statute covers a wide range of deceptive conduct, including credit card fraud, identity theft, and embezzlement. A conviction can result in felony or misdemeanor penalties depending on the value involved. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., “Advocacy Without Borders,” brings 120+ years combined legal experience to your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of the fraud statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For information on the Chesterfield County General District Court, visit vacourts.gov (official site).
In Chesterfield County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for fraud cases involving multiple victims or sophisticated schemes. We have observed that early intervention can often lead to charge reduction or dismissal.
- Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records related to the alleged fraud.
- Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Chesterfield County immediately to preserve your rights.
- Attend all court hearings at Chesterfield County General District Court, 9500 Courthouse Road.
- Your attorney will evaluate the evidence and negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- If necessary, your case may proceed to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
In Chesterfield County, fraud under Va. Code § 18.2-178 carries penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a Class 5 felony, depending on the value of property obtained.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraud (value under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Fraud (value $1,000 or more) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. The firm has handled numerous fraud cases in Chesterfield County, achieving dismissals and reductions for clients. As a white collar crime defense lawyer Chesterfield County, the firm understands the details of financial investigations and prosecutions.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed or not guilty, 2 reduced or amended — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in all reported instances. Results may vary. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 15 miles from Chesterfield County General District Court, with access via I-95 and Route 10. If you need a fraud lawyer near Chesterfield, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Our location: 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 | (804) 201-9009 | By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Chesterfield County
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, petit larceny under § 18.2-96, and driving on suspended under § 46.2-301. 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. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 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 carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Chesterfield County General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Early legal representation is critical.
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.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against computer fraud and abuse act violations charges?
Defense strategies for computer fraud and abuse act violations in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia?
If facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states charges?
Defense strategies for conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 to build the strongest possible defense.
For more information, visit our Petit Larceny Defense Lawyer Virginia hub page. You may also be interested in our Petit Larceny Lawyer Stafford County or Petit Larceny Lawyer New Kent County pages. For related practice areas, see Business Purchase Lawyer Chesterfield County or Business Transaction Lawyer Chesterfield County.
Last updated: 2026-04-30