Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Chesterfield County criminal charges are serious matters prosecuted under Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code Title 18.2; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County, including dismissals and charge reductions. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a distinct advantage in building your defense strategy.
Criminal Defense Defined Under Virginia Law
Criminal defense in Virginia involves representing individuals accused of violating state laws, from misdemeanors to felonies. The Virginia criminal code categorizes offenses by class, with specific penalties for each.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our background in law enforcement and prosecution provides unique insight into case construction and courtroom strategy.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Chesterfield County court information, visit the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Criminal Court Process
Chesterfield County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County prosecutes cases at the courthouse on 9500 Courthouse Road.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at General District Court: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The court schedules a trial date.
- Discovery and Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney requests evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Motions to suppress or dismiss may be filed.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. Felony preliminary hearings are in GDC; jury trials are in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia guidelines. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Circuit Court.
Virginia Criminal Penalties
In Chesterfield County, criminal offenses carry specific penalties under Virginia law: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail/$2,500, Class 5 felonies 1-10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Chesterfield County Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. combines former prosecutor insight with former law enforcement experience. Our team includes Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of investigative experience, providing a unique perspective on police procedures and evidence challenges.
We maintain a focused caseload to ensure deep involvement in each Chesterfield County case. Our approach combines aggressive defense strategy with thorough case preparation.
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
Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal defense results in Chesterfield County: 3 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.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 10, and Route 360 (Hull Street). As a criminal defense lawyer near Chesterfield Towne Center and Pocahontas State Park, we represent clients throughout Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
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 Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield 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 Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Chesterfield County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Chesterfield County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield 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. Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring jurisdictions including Henrico County and Colonial Heights. For related practice areas in Chesterfield County, see DUI/DWI defense and family law.
Learn more about Bryan Block’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.