Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
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. Former prosecutors on staff. 24/7 consultations by appointment.
Statutory Definition of Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 under § 18.2-57, petit larceny under § 18.2-96, and driving on suspended under § 46.2-301. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes all criminal cases in the Twelfth Judicial District.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
External Legal References
Insider Procedural Edge: Chesterfield County Criminal Cases
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court at 9500 Courthouse Road processes cases quickly — typically 4-8 weeks from arraignment for misdemeanor trials.
Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Initial Appearance: Appear before the magistrate at the Chesterfield County jail within 24 hours of arrest for bond determination.
- Arraignment: Enter a plea at Chesterfield County General District Court within 72 hours of arrest for misdemeanors.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural violations.
- Trial or Plea: Proceed to bench trial in GDC or request a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court imposes penalties based on the classification of the offense.
Penalty Table for Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment based on classification under Virginia law.
| 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 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, potential vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 (100% favorable outcome rate). Specific results include a Not Guilty verdict for profane language over public airway under Virginia 18.2-427 and a Dismissal for purchase/possess alcohol under Virginia 4.1-305.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for 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).
Searching for a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield County? 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
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 $1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
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.
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.
Related Legal Resources
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.