Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesapeake
Virginia criminal law is defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). The Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for charges arising within the city.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Chesapeake Court Process for Criminal Cases
Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- Arraignment: You appear in Chesapeake General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions to suppress, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted in GDC, you can appeal to Chesapeake Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Expungement: If charges are dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Chesapeake Criminal Penalties
In Chesapeake, 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 | Protective order, no contact |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Impoundment, DMV points |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, Virginia’s equitable distribution statute. Our tagline: Global advocacy. Local precision.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). These results are specific to Chesapeake cases handled by our attorneys.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Representation in Chesapeake
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Chesapeake, Deep Creek, and Great Bridge.
We serve the Chesapeake area and surrounding communities including Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
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
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesapeake, 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 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?
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.
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.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.