Assault Lawyer Prince George County — What Are Your Defense Options?
An assault charge in Prince George County is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Prince George County.
Virginia Assault and Battery Law
In Virginia, assault and battery are defined under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Assault is an attempt or offer to do bodily hurt, coupled with the present ability to do so. Battery is the actual, willful touching of another person in a rude, insolent, or angry manner. The statute covers simple assault, assault and battery, and assault against a family or household member (domestic assault).
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how these charges are constructed and prosecuted in local courts.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-57 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and information can be found on the Prince George County General District Court website.
Prince George County Court Process for Assault Charges
All misdemeanor assault cases in Prince George County begin at the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince George County prosecutes these cases. A key local procedural fact is that defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time. This means you can appeal a GDC conviction and request a new trial before a jury in the Prince George County Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the assault charge and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney will file motions, review evidence, and interview witnesses to build your defense.
- Negotiation: Your assault and battery defense lawyer Prince George County will negotiate with the prosecutor, seeking dismissal, reduction, or a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal: If convicted, you have the right to appeal for a new jury trial in Prince George County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Assault in Prince George County
In Prince George County, simple assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Assault Against Family/Household Member | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory arrest policy, no-contact orders, impact on custody |
| Assault on Law Enforcement | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, mandatory minimum sentences may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Assault Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how the other side builds cases. We have documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Prince George County, we have 1 documented result. Our approach is direct and focused on achieving the best possible outcome for your specific situation.
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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in assault cases. While every case is unique, our strategies are designed to seek dismissals, reductions, or acquittals. For instance, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder—has successfully navigated complex criminal defenses. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Assault Defense Lawyer Near Prince George County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We provide legal representation to individuals in Prince George and the Hopewell area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Assault Charges in Prince George County
What should I do if I am charged with assault in Prince George County?
Do not speak to police or prosecutors without an assault lawyer Prince George County present. Contact a defense attorney immediately to protect your rights and begin building your defense strategy for the Prince George County General District Court.
Can an assault charge be dismissed in Prince George County?
Yes. An assault charge dismissed lawyer Prince George County can seek dismissal by challenging the evidence, proving self-defense, showing a lack of intent, or negotiating a diversion program. Success depends on the specific facts and evidence of your case.
What is the difference between assault and battery in Virginia?
Assault is the attempt or threat to cause harm, while battery is the actual physical contact. They are often charged together under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Both are Class 1 misdemeanors with the same potential penalties.
What are the defenses to an assault charge?
Common defenses include self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, mistaken identity, consent (in certain contexts), and insufficient evidence. An experienced assault and battery defense lawyer Prince George County will evaluate which defense applies to your situation.
Will an assault charge go on my permanent record?
Yes, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record. However, if the charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may be eligible to have the records expunged under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, sealing them from public view.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing an assault charge, you may also want to learn about Virginia criminal defense. For representation in nearby areas, see our pages for Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. For other legal needs in Prince George County, consider a DUI lawyer or family law attorney.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your assault charge.