Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
You need a strong defense to protect your record and future. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses and penalties. In Chesterfield County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense grounded in over 120 years of combined attorney experience.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
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 GDC.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: Appear before a magistrate after arrest for bond determination. You can request a bond hearing at Chesterfield County General District Court if initially denied.
- Arraignment and Plea Entry: Formally hear the charges and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. This is your first court date at 9500 Courthouse Road.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will request evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. You have a right to appeal to Circuit Court for a new trial. Felony preliminary hearings are in GDC; trials are in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry significant penalties under Virginia law, including jail time, fines, and a permanent record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent theft record |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, mandatory minimum fine |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Discretionary | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums set by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the judge.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have a documented record of results in Chesterfield County. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details of your situation and the procedures of the local court.
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, Virginia. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 2 charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these documented cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case. Each case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We represent individuals throughout the Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley communities. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street).
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
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. 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 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) 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. Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges in Chesterfield County, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.