Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Chesterfield County criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand local court procedures. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a case-specific approach.
Virginia’s criminal code defines offenses and penalties. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, handles these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official resources: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
- Attend your arraignment at 9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832.
- Review discovery with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Consider a motion to suppress if evidence was obtained improperly.
- Evaluate plea offers versus trial risks with your lawyer.
- If convicted, explore expungement eligibility under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 for dismissals.
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison. A Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months jail. A Class 5 felony means 1-10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on case-specific defense strategies. Global advocacy. 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 2 charges reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). A criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park. We serve Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 means up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and petit larceny.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes, 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.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors. Secured bond 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. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent 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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Henrico County and Colonial Heights. In Chesterfield County, we handle related matters such as DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.