Assault Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
An assault charge in Prince George County is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Prince George County.
Virginia Assault and Battery Law
In Virginia, assault and battery are defined under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Assault is an attempt or offer to do bodily hurt to another, coupled with the present ability to do so. Battery is the actual, willful touching of another person in a rude, insolent, or angry manner. The statute covers simple assault, assault and battery, and assault and battery against a family or household member (domestic assault).
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how these charges are built and prosecuted, which is critical for building an effective defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-57 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and information for Prince George County can be found on the Prince George County General District Court website.
Handling an Assault Case in Prince George County
Prince George County General District Court handles all misdemeanor assault trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Prince George County Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time, which includes all assault charges. This means you can elect to have your case heard by a jury in Circuit Court instead of a judge in General District Court.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact an attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. We review the police report, witness statements, and any available evidence.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally advised of the charges at an arraignment in Prince George County General District Court. Your attorney can enter a plea on your behalf.
- Investigation & Discovery: We conduct a thorough investigation, which may include interviewing witnesses, reviewing medical records, and examining the scene. We also file for discovery to obtain all evidence the prosecution intends to use.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: Based on the evidence, we may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge. We engage in negotiations with the prosecutor to seek a favorable resolution, such as a reduction to a lesser offense or dismissal.
- Trial Preparation: If a settlement cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial, whether before a judge in General District Court or a jury in Circuit Court.
- Post-Trial & Expungement: If the case results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi, we can file a petition for expungement in Prince George County Circuit Court to seal the record.
Potential Penalties for Assault in Prince George County
In Prince George County, simple assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Assault against a family or household member carries the same penalties but may involve additional protective orders.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Assault & Battery of Family/Household Member | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory protective order, no contact provisions, impact on custody |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into both sides of the criminal justice system. We have over 120 years of combined legal experience and have handled more than 4,739 cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who has personally handled complex criminal matters for decades.
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 Prince George County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Prince George County. While every case is unique, our firm-wide track record across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team, including former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works to achieve the best possible result, which can range from getting an assault charge dismissed to securing a reduction to a lesser offense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Assault Lawyer Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, Route 36, and Route 156. We provide legal representation to individuals in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Assault Defense FAQs for Prince George County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Assault and battery under § 18.2-57 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Cases are heard at Prince George County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Can an assault charge be dismissed in Prince George County?
It depends. An assault charge dismissed lawyer Prince George County can seek dismissal by challenging the evidence, proving self-defense, showing a lack of intent, or negotiating a diversion program like Virginia’s first offender statute. Successful completion of such a program can result in dismissal.
What is the difference between assault and battery in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-57, assault is an attempt or threat to do bodily harm with the present ability to do so. Battery is the actual, unwanted physical touching. The terms are often charged together as “assault and battery,” which is a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Do I need a lawyer for a simple assault charge?
Yes. Even a simple assault charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor with potential jail time and a permanent criminal record. An assault and battery defense lawyer Prince George County can protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work toward a dismissal or reduction.
Can I get an assault charge expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. 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 Prince George County Circuit Court.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense in Prince George County or family law matters.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.