In Chesapeake, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to felonies. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty. An Arson Lawyer Chesapeake provides defense against fire-related charges at Chesapeake General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
Virginia law defines criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and $1,000. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). An arson charge defense lawyer Chesapeake understands how these classifications apply to fire-related charges specifically.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has 120+ years of combined legal experience. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute.
Official statute: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly. Court website: Chesapeake General District Court — official Virginia Judicial System.
- Contact an Arson Lawyer Chesapeake immediately after arrest or investigation begins.
- Preserve evidence — do not speak to investigators without counsel present.
- Request a bond hearing at Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive).
- Review discovery materials for procedural errors or witness credibility issues.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for reduced charges or diversion.
- Prepare for trial in General District Court or request Circuit Court jury trial.
In Chesapeake, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison time. A fire-related criminal charge lawyer Chesapeake can explain how specific penalties apply to your case.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Class 2 Misdemeanor | Class 2 | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Class 5 Felony | Class 5 | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of rights | Felony record |
| Class 6 Felony | Class 6 | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Loss of rights | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has 120+ years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute — a unique credential in Virginia family law.
In Chesapeake, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, SRIS has 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, I-664, Route 13, Route 17, and Route 168 (Battlefield Blvd).
Looking for an Arson Lawyer Chesapeake near you? We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2: up to 6 months/$1,000. Cases at Chesapeake General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesapeake?
Chesapeake General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — parent hub page.
Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
Chesapeake DUI Lawyer — related practice area.
Chesapeake Family Law Lawyer — related practice area.
Bryan Block — Former Virginia State Trooper — attorney profile.
Richmond Office Location — serving Chesapeake.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.