In Chesapeake, robbery is a Class 3 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, carrying 5 to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty. A Robbery Defense Lawyer Chesapeake can challenge identification and evidence. 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Robbery Laws and Penalties
Robbery in Virginia is defined as the taking of property from another person by force, threat, or intimidation. Under Va. Code § 18.2-58, robbery is a Class 3 felony. A conviction carries a prison sentence of 5 years to life. Unlike larceny, robbery involves violence or the threat of violence. The Commonwealth’s Attorney in Chesapeake prosecutes these cases at the Chesapeake General District Court and Circuit Court. A robbery charge defense lawyer Chesapeake can help you understand the specific elements the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-58 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-58 (Robbery) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Chesapeake General District Court — Official Court Website
How a Robbery Case Proceeds in Chesapeake Courts
Chesapeake General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for felony robbery cases. The Commonwealth must show probable cause before the case moves to Circuit Court for trial. A Robbery Defense Lawyer Chesapeake can challenge the identification procedure and the use of force allegations early in the process.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Preliminary hearing in Chesapeake General District Court within 21-60 days.
- Indictment by grand jury if probable cause is found.
- Arraignment in Chesapeake Circuit Court and plea entry.
- Discovery, motions practice, and plea negotiations.
- Trial by jury or judge in Circuit Court.
In Chesapeake, robbery carries a penalty of 5 years to life in prison, with potential fines up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (§ 18.2-58) | Class 3 Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | None specific | Permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights; difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Robbery Defense?
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 achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its case. An armed robbery defense lawyer Chesapeake from our team can provide the strong defense you need.
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
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, who founded the firm in 1997 and brings decades of criminal defense experience.
Case Results in Chesapeake
1 documented results in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesapeake Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. We serve the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Looking for a robbery defense lawyer near Chesapeake? We are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Robbery Defense in Chesapeake
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a lesser offense in Chesapeake?
Yes. A skilled Robbery Defense Lawyer Chesapeake can negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to reduce the charge to larceny or attempted robbery if the evidence of force is weak. This can significantly lower potential penalties.
What is the difference between robbery and larceny in Virginia?
Robbery involves taking property from a person by force, threat, or intimidation. Larceny does not require force. Robbery is a Class 3 felony (5 years to life), while grand larceny is a Class 5 felony (1-10 years).
How long does a robbery case take in Chesapeake?
It depends. A felony robbery case typically takes 3-9 months from arrest to trial in Chesapeake Circuit Court. The preliminary hearing in General District Court occurs within 21-60 days of arrest.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery charge in Chesapeake?
Yes. Robbery carries a potential life sentence. A Robbery Defense Lawyer Chesapeake can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights. Even a first offense can result in significant prison time.
Can a robbery conviction be expunged in Virginia?
No. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, only acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi can be expunged. A conviction for robbery cannot be removed from your record. This makes a strong defense critical.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.