Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesterfield County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. In Chesterfield County, cases begin at the Chesterfield County General District Court located at 9500 Courthouse Road.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). Information about Chesterfield County court procedures is available on the Chesterfield County General District Court official website.
Chesterfield County Court Process
Your criminal case in Chesterfield County will follow specific local procedures. The General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a judge to hear the formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: If you are detained, a magistrate will set bond conditions. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review the evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): For felony charges, the court will determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Trial: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Impoundment, mandatory jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums set by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ cases firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into case construction and police procedures.
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
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 cases had charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these documented cases in this locality.
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). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street). We provide criminal defense representation to residents of 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
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license.
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 a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the Chesterfield County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights, explores defenses, and negotiates for reduced charges or dismissal.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court (GDC) 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 Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. In Chesterfield County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.