Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
If you are facing criminal charges in Chesterfield County, you have the right to an attorney, the right to remain silent, and the right to a trial. Contact us immediately at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia’s criminal code, found in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defines all criminal offenses and their penalties. The Commonwealth classifies crimes as either felonies or misdemeanors. A felony is a more serious offense punishable by imprisonment in a state correctional facility. A misdemeanor is a less serious offense, typically punishable by up to 12 months in jail. The specific elements of each crime—what the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt—are detailed within the statutes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense based on a deep understanding of these statutory definitions.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the definitive text of Virginia’s criminal laws, refer to the official state code: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly). For information regarding the Chesterfield County court where your case will be heard, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process and Insider Insight
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Chesterfield County occur at the Chesterfield County General District Court located at 9500 Courthouse Road. Felony jury trials and appeals are handled by the Chesterfield County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes all cases.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors; secured bond is typical for felonies.
- Arraignment: At your first court date, you are formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence from the prosecutor and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Resolution: Most cases resolve through plea agreements. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC.
- Trial or Sentencing: For misdemeanors, a bench trial is held in GDC. If convicted, sentencing follows. For felonies, the case moves to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a GDC conviction to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Criminal Penalties in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and Class 5 felonies carrying 1 to 10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time mandatory for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Firm Credentials and Local Recognition
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s attorneys bring a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. With a documented record of 4,739+ firm-wide case results and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate, the firm is recognized for its focused, case-specific approach. In Chesterfield County, our attorneys have achieved 5 documented results with a 100% favorable outcome rate for clients.
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
Documented Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal defense results in Chesterfield County, Virginia. These outcomes include 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 2 cases where charges were reduced or amended to lesser offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Representation Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street). As a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park, we represent clients throughout Midlothian, Chester, the Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are 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, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you have related legal needs in Chesterfield County, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block or our Richmond location.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.