Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Chesterfield County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-11 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. Our firm provides full representation for assault, theft, drug possession, and other criminal charges heard at Chesterfield County General District Court. You need a defense that understands local procedures.
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by statute. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The specific elements of each crime—like intent for assault under § 18.2-57 or value for theft under § 18.2-95—determine the charge. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, focuses on these details.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official resources: Va. Code § 18.2-11 (official Virginia General Assembly) and the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal.
- Attend your arraignment at 9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832.
- Receive discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- File pretrial motions to challenge evidence or seek diversion.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial in General District Court or appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison. A Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months jail. A Class 5 felony means 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension 6 months | Possible diversion |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ cases 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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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 County and near Chesterfield Towne Center. 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.
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.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Henrico County and Colonial Heights. In Chesterfield County, we also handle DUI defense and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.