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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Hanover 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 1 documented result in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
In Hanover County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to jail time. The specific penalty depends on the classification of the offense.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Yes, you should contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licenses.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Hanover County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Hanover 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 Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Hanover 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 Hanover County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Hanover County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Hanover County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Hanover 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 Hanover County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Hanover County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (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 Hanover County?
Hanover County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Hanover 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. Hanover County General District Court (7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069) is the GDC location.
Our team also includes Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with over a decade of experience in criminal defense, and Matthew Greene, a 30+ year veteran of criminal law.
- Step 1: Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or charge.
- Step 2: Do not speak to law enforcement without your lawyer present.
- Step 3: Gather all documents related to your case, including the charging document and any bond paperwork.
- Step 4: Attend all court hearings as required. Failure to appear can result in a warrant for your arrest.
- Step 5: Work with your lawyer to explore all defense options, including possible first-offender programs.
- Step 6: Follow your lawyer’s advice regarding plea negotiations or trial preparation.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Richmond Location serves clients at the Hanover County courts. Contact us at (888) 437-7747 for directions and appointment scheduling. Free parking at our location.
We serve the communities of Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, Doswell.
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer page. You can also learn about our services in Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need a DUI lawyer in Hanover County or a family law lawyer in Hanover County, we can help.