Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law Statutes
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This full statute defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more). Sentencing guidelines are found in § 19.2-295.1, and expungement procedures for eligible cases are governed by § 19.2-392.2. Understanding these statutes is critical for building an effective defense strategy in Chesterfield County.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the most current statutory language, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and local rules for Chesterfield County can be found on the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings begin at Chesterfield County General District Court located at 9500 Courthouse Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 are available and can result in dismissal upon successful completion.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: Formally hear charges and enter a plea at Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Negotiation or Trial: Negotiate a plea agreement or proceed to a bench trial in GDC for misdemeanors.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, present mitigation. Appeal GDC decisions to Circuit Court within 10 days.
Criminal Penalties in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, employment issues |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the effectiveness of your legal representation.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our commitment to detailed, locality-specific defense strategies in Chesterfield County and across Virginia.
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
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal defense results specific to Chesterfield County: 3 cases resulted in dismissal or a not guilty verdict, and 2 cases saw charges reduced or amended—a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. These results demonstrate our effective advocacy in the local court system.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Local Chesterfield County Defense
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. As a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield County, we represent clients throughout Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747—all meetings are 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: 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 clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges in Chesterfield County, explore our pages on DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block’s background.
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.