In Hanover County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result with a 100% favorable outcome rate in Hanover County. A Gun Crime Lawyer Hanover County can help you understand your options.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia classifies criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors range from Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 4 (up to 30 days, $250 fine). Felonies range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Hanover County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. A Gun Crime Lawyer Hanover County provides defense for weapons-related charges under these statutes.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for Hanover County Criminal Cases
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Hanover County General District Court — Official Court Website
Insider Knowledge: Hanover County Court Procedures
Hanover County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at 7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069.
First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion. Expungement is available for acquittals, nolle prosequi, and dismissals under § 19.2-392.2.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear before the court to enter a plea. The court sets a trial date for misdemeanors or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. Felony cases proceed to Circuit Court for jury trials.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court imposes penalties including jail time, fines, and probation. First-offender programs may apply.
In Hanover County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to jail time. A Gun Crime Lawyer Hanover County can explain the specific penalties for your charge.
| 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Hanover County 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. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating our firm’s ability to effect real change in Virginia law.
Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. This insider knowledge allows us to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence and build strong defense strategies for our clients in Hanover County.
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
Hanover County Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Hanover County Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Hanover County courts (7507 Library Drive). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 301, and Route 33.
Searching for a “criminal defense lawyer near Hanover County” or “criminal defense attorney near Mechanicsville”? We serve all Hanover County communities including Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Hanover County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Hanover County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Hanover County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Hanover 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 Hanover County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Hanover County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Hanover County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Hanover County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Hanover County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Hanover County 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 Hanover County?
Hanover County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Hanover 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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
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- Hanover County DUI Lawyer
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- Richmond Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.