In Colonial Heights, arson under Va. Code § 18.2-77 is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented case results across all practice areas. An Arson Lawyer Colonial Heights can challenge evidence and negotiate reduced charges. Consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-77 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Arson in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-77 as the willful and malicious burning of a dwelling house, building, or structure. The statute covers both occupied and unoccupied structures. A conviction requires proof that you intentionally set the fire — accidental fires do not meet the legal standard. The Commonwealth’s Attorney in Colonial Heights prosecutes these cases at the Colonial Heights General District Court for preliminary hearings and at the Colonial Heights Circuit Court for felony trials.
For the full text of the arson statute, visit Va. Code § 18.2-77 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures and forms, see the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
Colonial Heights General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Colonial Heights prosecutes arson cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion. Expungement is available for acquittals, nolle prosequi, and dismissals under § 19.2-392.2.
- Contact an Arson Lawyer Colonial Heights immediately after arrest.
- Do not speak to investigators without your lawyer present.
- Preserve any evidence that may show the fire was accidental.
- Attend all court hearings at 550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834.
- Review potential first offender or plea options with your attorney.
In Colonial Heights, arson under Va. Code § 18.2-77 carries 2-10 years in prison and fines up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arson of dwelling | Class 4 felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None specific | Permanent criminal record; housing and employment barriers |
| Arson of unoccupied structure | Class 5 felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None specific | Permanent criminal 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 over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 total documented case results across all practice areas in Colonial Heights, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Colonial Heights courts (550 Boulevard), accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 144 (Temple Avenue), and Route 36. Arson Lawyer Colonial Heights — serving Colonial Heights and surrounding areas. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Q: What is the penalty for arson in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
Yes. Arson of a dwelling under Va. Code § 18.2-77 is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison and fines up to $100,000. Arson of an unoccupied structure is a Class 5 felony with 1-10 years. Cases are heard at Colonial Heights General District Court.
Q: Can arson charges be expunged in Colonial Heights?
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 Colonial Heights Circuit Court. First offender programs may lead to dismissal and expungement.
Q: How does bail work for arson charges in Colonial Heights?
It depends. A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For arson (a felony), secured bond is typical — a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%. Bond can be appealed to Colonial Heights General District Court. Personal recognizance is less common for felony charges.
Q: Do I need an arson lawyer in Colonial Heights?
Yes. Arson charges in Colonial Heights are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and carry 2-10 years in prison. Even if the fire was accidental, the prosecution must prove intent. An Arson Lawyer Colonial Heights can challenge evidence and negotiate reduced charges.
Q: What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for arson cases?
Colonial Heights General District Court handles felony preliminary hearings for arson. Colonial Heights 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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