In Chesterfield 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 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended. A Computer Crime Lawyer Chesterfield County can help you understand your options.
Virginia Criminal Law: Statutes and Penalties in Chesterfield County
Virginia criminal law is codified under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Chesterfield County, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felonies (1-5 years in prison). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes all criminal cases. A Computer Crime Lawyer Chesterfield County understands these statutes and how they apply to your case. Mr. Sris, founder of the firm since 1997, brings former prosecutor experience to every criminal defense case.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources for Chesterfield County Criminal Cases
For the most current criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly’s official code site. For Chesterfield County court information, including dockets and forms, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Insider Knowledge: How Criminal Cases Work in Chesterfield County
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: Your first court date at Chesterfield County GDC. You enter a plea. If not guilty, a trial date is set (typically 4-8 weeks).
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney reviews the evidence and files any pretrial motions (suppress evidence, dismiss charges).
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials are bench trials in GDC. Felony preliminary hearings determine probable cause for Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted in GDC, you can appeal to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a new trial. Felony trials occur in Circuit Court with jury option.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties 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; possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record; possible vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our team also includes Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with over a decade of litigation experience, and Matthew Greene, a 30+ year veteran of criminal defense.
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Our Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Services
Distance: 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).
Near-Me: Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield County? We serve all of Chesterfield County including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Neighborhoods Served: Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, Moseley.
Availability: 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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Chesterfield County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield 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 (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
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 approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.