In Chesapeake, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty. A Gun Crime Lawyer Chesapeake can help you understand your options.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia law defines criminal offenses primarily under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Sentencing is governed by § 19.2-295.1, and expungement for acquittals or dismissals falls under § 19.2-392.2. In Chesapeake, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all criminal cases. A Gun Crime Lawyer Chesapeake is essential for handling these serious charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official court information, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website. The primary statute governing criminal offenses is Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly).
Insider Knowledge: How Chesapeake Criminal Courts Work
Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322. A Gun Crime Lawyer Chesapeake knows that first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment in Chesapeake General District Court within 72 hours.
- Pre-trial conference with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Misdemeanor trial or felony preliminary hearing in GDC.
- If convicted in GDC, appeal to Chesapeake Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Felony cases bound over to Circuit Court for indictment and jury trial.
In Chesapeake, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (over $1,000) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Chesapeake Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Firm-wide, we have achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.” A Gun Crime Lawyer Chesapeake from our team understands local court procedures and prosecutor tendencies.
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 Chesapeake
In Chesapeake, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesapeake Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
Looking for a Gun Crime Lawyer Chesapeake near you? We are near the Greenbrier area and Chesapeake City Hall.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Chesapeake
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake 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 Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322).
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. The petition is filed in Chesapeake Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Chesapeake, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesapeake. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesapeake General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Chesapeake are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesapeake General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 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. Chesapeake 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.