Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses, classifications, and penalties. For example, assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more) is a felony under § 18.2-95. The law also establishes procedures for arrest, bail, trial, and sentencing.
Last verified: March 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience to handle criminal cases in Dinwiddie County.
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For court-specific information, visit the Dinwiddie County General District Court website.
Dinwiddie County Court Process
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Dinwiddie County prosecutes cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 are available; successful completion results in dismissal.
- Initial arrest and bond hearing: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at Dinwiddie County General District Court: You appear before a judge, hear charges, and enter a plea.
- Discovery and pre-trial motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Trial or plea agreement: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony jury trials move to Dinwiddie County Circuit Court.
Criminal Penalties in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and court discretion.
Firm Credentials and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Dinwiddie County criminal defense team includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, providing combined insight into both prosecution and law enforcement perspectives. Global advocacy. Local precision.
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 Dinwiddie County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in Dinwiddie County: 2 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 2 charges reduced or amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Service
Our Richmond location serves clients at Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Dinwiddie County and serve the communities of Dinwiddie and McKenney. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Dinwiddie 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 heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie 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 Dinwiddie County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Dinwiddie County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Dinwiddie County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Dinwiddie County?
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie 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 Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. In Dinwiddie County, we handle related matters like DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated from Dinwiddie County court records and Virginia statutes. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.