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 False Claims lawyer Chesterfield County can help you understand your options.
Criminal Law in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Sentencing follows § 19.2-295.1. Expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi is available under § 19.2-392.2. First-offender programs exist under § 19.2-303.2. A False Claims lawyer Chesterfield County can provide guidance on these statutes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official legal references, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge for Chesterfield County Criminal Cases
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all cases. First-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and booking at Chesterfield County Jail.
- Magistrate sets bond at the jail or courthouse.
- Initial appearance at Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Arraignment and plea entry within 4-8 weeks.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery.
- Trial or plea negotiation.
In Chesterfield County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification.
| 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 |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute). Our team includes former prosecutors and experienced trial attorneys.
Our team also includes Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Matthew Greene, with 30+ years of experience. A federal false claims defense lawyer Chesterfield County can assist with federal matters.
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).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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).
Looking 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.
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 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. Cases are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
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.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond 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. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. See also our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer and Colonial Heights criminal defense lawyer pages. For related practice areas, see our Chesterfield County DUI lawyer and Chesterfield County reckless driving lawyer pages. A qui tam defense lawyer Chesterfield County can also assist with whistleblower cases.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.