Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County: The Law
Virginia law categorizes criminal offenses by severity. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony carries a potential sentence of 1 to 10 years in prison. The specific elements of each crime are defined in the Virginia Code.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys use their inside knowledge of the prosecution’s methods to build strong defenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court-specific information, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Local Court Process in Chesterfield County
The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes all criminal cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal for eligible individuals.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: At Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road), you enter a plea and a trial date is set.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence from the prosecution and may file motions to challenge the case.
- Resolution: Most cases resolve through a plea agreement. If not, a bench trial is held before a judge.
- Appeal: If convicted, you have 10 days to appeal for a jury trial in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Offenses
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry significant penalties, including jail time, fines, and a permanent record.
| 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 | 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 | Criminal record affects employment |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time mandatory for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Court discretion | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your case. Founded in 1997, our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to every Chesterfield County case.
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 Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal defense results in Chesterfield County: 3 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 in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts on Courthouse Road, accessible via I-95 and Route 1. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park.
We serve the Chesterfield County area and surrounding communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
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 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: 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 Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
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. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County 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 Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (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 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. Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges in Chesterfield County, consider our DUI/DWI defense or family law services. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background as a former state trooper.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.