Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Criminal Defense Statute in Chesterfield County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This full statute defines all criminal offenses in Chesterfield County, from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more). The statute also establishes sentencing guidelines under § 19.2-295.1 and expungement procedures under § 19.2-392.2 for cases that end in acquittal or dismissal.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly website
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every Chesterfield County criminal case.
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (law.lis.virginia.gov). For information about Chesterfield County court procedures, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
Chesterfield County Criminal Court Process
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings at 9500 Courthouse Road. Felony jury trials and appeals from GDC decisions proceed to Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: Appear before a magistrate at the Chesterfield County jail or courthouse. Request personal recognizance bond if eligible.
- Arraignment at General District Court: Enter a plea of not guilty at your first court date at 9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832.
- Discovery and Motion Filing: Review the Commonwealth’s evidence. File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if grounds exist.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or negotiate a favorable plea agreement with the prosecutor.
- Appeal to Circuit Court: If convicted in GDC, you have an absolute right to a jury trial de novo in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Chesterfield County Criminal Penalties
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to lengthy prison terms, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines, and felonies carrying 1-10 years or more in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact with victim |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent theft conviction |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Mandatory minimum for distribution |
Results may vary. Prior outcomes do not aim for future results.
Criminal Defense Experience in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings unique qualifications to Chesterfield County criminal cases. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm combines over 120 years of attorney experience with specific insights into Virginia criminal procedure. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how cases are investigated and prosecuted in Chesterfield County.
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
Chesterfield County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 5 documented results in Chesterfield County criminal cases: 3 cases dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 2 cases saw charges reduced or amended — representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior outcomes do not aim for future results.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near 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 provide criminal defense representation throughout 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.
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 Resources
For more information about criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby jurisdictions including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you need assistance with related matters in Chesterfield County, consider our DUI/DWI defense services or family law representation.
Learn more about Bryan Block’s background and experience or visit our Richmond location page for directions and appointment information.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.