spec_version=V13.3
generated_date=2026-03-20
locality=Chesapeake (City)
state=VA
practice_area=Criminal
assigned_location=Richmond Location
primary_attorney=Bryan Block
source_row=224
case_results_source=locality-specific
seasonal_hook=no
aggregate_rating_active=no
word_count=1650
tier=2
conflicts_detected=none
checker_status=PASS
blocker_count=0
warning_count=0
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Chesapeake, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code Title 18.2 to felonies with years of incarceration; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys understand Chesapeake General District Court procedures at 307 Albemarle Drive.
Virginia Criminal Law in Chesapeake
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, with specific penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense in Chesapeake.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal code, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Chesapeake court information, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
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. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal.
- Arraignment: You appear in Chesapeake General District Court to hear charges and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond conditions after arrest.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to trial or reaches a negotiated resolution.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you may appeal to Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Chesapeake Criminal Penalties
In Chesapeake, criminal charges carry penalties from up to 12 months jail for misdemeanors to 1-10 years for felonies, with fines up to $2,500.
| 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 | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Chesapeake Criminal Defense?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have documented 1 case result in Chesapeake with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal cases.
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
Chesapeake Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Chesapeake, Virginia: 1 case dismissed or found not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts, accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Chesapeake City Hall and the Greenbrier area. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier communities.
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 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). 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
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. 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 Chesapeake, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Chesapeake are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (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 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. Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive, Chesapeake, VA 23322) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information on Virginia criminal defense, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. For defense in nearby areas, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. In Chesapeake, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block or visit our Richmond location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.