Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Chesterfield County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended. A False Claims lawyer Chesterfield County can help you understand your options.
Statutory Definition of Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The False Claims lawyer Chesterfield County at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled these cases since 1997.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
External Legal References
Insider Procedural Edge: Chesterfield County General District Court
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment in General District Court within 72 hours of arrest.
- Discovery phase where the prosecution shares evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial if needed.
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time. A False Claims lawyer Chesterfield County can explain the specific penalties for your charge.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Possession of Marijuana (§ 18.2-250.1) | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | 6-month license suspension | Drug education program required |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Examples include a possession of marijuana charge (Va. Code § 18.2-250.1) dismissed via nolle prosequi in Chesterfield General District Court, and another possession charge reduced to unauthorized distribution of controlled substance paraphernalia.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Services in Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street). We serve Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Looking for a False Claims lawyer Chesterfield County near you? We are near Chesterfield Towne Center and the Chesterfield County Courthouse complex.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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 are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. 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 approximately 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 in Chesterfield County 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. 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.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.