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 results in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty. A Child Exploitation Lawyer Hanover County can help you understand your options.
Statutory Definition of Criminal Charges in Hanover County
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 6 felony, such as grand larceny for theft over $1,000, carries 1 to 5 years in prison. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Hanover County prosecutes all criminal cases. A child exploitation defense lawyer Hanover County can provide guidance on specific charges.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute).
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Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Hanover County Court
Hanover County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069. First offender programs are available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance where charges are read and a plea is entered.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the evidence the prosecution has against you.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea: Your case proceeds to trial or a plea agreement is negotiated.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence within the statutory range.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to Hanover County Circuit Court.
Penalty Table for Criminal Charges in Hanover County
In Hanover County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending 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 | Criminal record, potential employment issues |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm restrictions |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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
Secondary Attorney: Kristen M. Fisher is Of Counsel and a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland. She has been with the firm since 2010 and focuses on criminal defense and family law.
Case Results in Hanover County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Presence in Hanover County
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Hanover County courts (7507 Library Drive). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 301, and Route 33.
If you need a minor exploitation charge lawyer Hanover County, our team can help.
We serve the communities of Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Hanover County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Hanover County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny, and driving on suspended. Cases are heard at Hanover County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. 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.
How does bail work in Hanover County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%, is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Hanover County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Hanover County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. 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.
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Freshness & Verification
Last verified: 2026-04. Information updated as of 2026-04. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.