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 the local court system. You need a strong defense to protect your record and future.
What Is a Criminal Charge in Chesterfield County?
Virginia law defines crimes in Title 18.2 of the state code. In Chesterfield County, charges are filed by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, or the Circuit Court for felonies. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings firsthand insight into case construction.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Review the Virginia criminal statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly). For Chesterfield County court information, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate.
- First appearance/arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery exchange with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Misdemeanor trial in GDC or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- If bound over, felony indictment and trial in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or appeal, if applicable.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program may apply |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record in Chesterfield County. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper who understands police investigation tactics from the inside.
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
Documented 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, 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 Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We are 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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
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.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. 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?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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 | Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Chesterfield County DUI Lawyer | Attorney Bryan Block Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.