Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years. The Chesterfield County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases in the Chesterfield County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, with felony trials held in Chesterfield County Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. The Chesterfield County General District Court website provides local forms, procedures, and contact information.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Chesterfield County General District Court. You will enter a plea, and the judge will address bond. For misdemeanors, a trial date is set. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Appear before a judge, enter a plea, and address release conditions.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains police reports and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal defects.
- Negotiation or Trial: Pursue a favorable plea agreement or proceed to a bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, argue for minimal penalties. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and legal strategy.
Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal cases in Chesterfield County. This includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who has 15 years of law enforcement insight into investigation tactics, and former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher. We focus on a detailed, case-specific approach for each client.
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
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 are heard at Chesterfield County General District Court.
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
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 visible to employers. An attorney can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights in court.
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.
Case Results in Chesterfield County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal defense results in Chesterfield County: 3 cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, and 2 charges were reduced or amended to lesser offenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and the Midlothian area.
We serve the Chesterfield County area and surrounding communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, 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
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Colonial Heights. In Chesterfield County, we also handle DUI defense and reckless driving cases. 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 regarding your specific situation.