Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Chesterfield County criminal charges are serious matters prosecuted under Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code Title 18.2). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a distinct advantage in building your defense strategy.
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Chesterfield County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases, primarily at the Chesterfield County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, and at the Chesterfield County Circuit Court for felony trials.
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 firm combines over 120 years of legal experience, with attorneys who have firsthand knowledge of both sides of the courtroom.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly statute.
- Chesterfield County General District Court website — official .gov court information.
Chesterfield County Court Process
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond conditions after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Arraignment in General District Court: You appear at 9500 Courthouse Road to enter a plea. The judge sets a trial date for not guilty pleas.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney requests evidence from the prosecutor and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. Felony preliminary hearings determine if the case proceeds to Circuit Court for jury trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500; Class 5 felonies 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-5 years (Class 6) or 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Chesterfield County Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to your case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into case construction and police procedures. We have achieved 4,739+ favorable case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
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
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 — a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We provide criminal defense lawyer services near Chesterfield Towne Center and throughout the Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley communities.
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: 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.
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).
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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page.
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
- Chesterfield County DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile — primary attorney.
- Richmond Office Location — serving Chesterfield County.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.