Criminal Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia
In Chesapeake, Virginia, criminal charges like assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57 are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 case dismissed or found not guilty. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at Chesapeake General District Court.
Criminal Charges in Chesapeake: Virginia Law
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor level, can result in up to 12 months incarceration and a fine up to $2,500. Felonies, such as grand larceny for theft over $1,000, carry potential prison sentences of one year or more.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia Legislative Information System. Information about Chesapeake court procedures is available on the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Chesapeake Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case will begin at Chesapeake General District Court located at 307 Albemarle Drive. This court handles all misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings for felonies. If your case proceeds as a felony, it will be transferred to Chesapeake Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arraignment: You will appear before a judge to hear the formal charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal deficiencies.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will discuss the case with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal of charges.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will either go to trial before a judge or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence which may include jail, fines, probation, or other conditions.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a conviction or sentence to the Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Penalties for Common Chesapeake Criminal Charges
In Chesapeake, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Community service possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and your defense strategy.
Our Experience in Chesapeake Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We focus on providing full representation for clients facing criminal charges in Chesapeake. Our approach is case-specific, built on a detailed understanding of Virginia law and local court procedures.
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 criminal defense result in Chesapeake, Virginia, with a 100% favorable outcome rate (1 case dismissed or found not guilty). We work to achieve the best possible result in every case.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Chesapeake Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesapeake courts. We represent individuals in Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. Our criminal defense lawyers are accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168.
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 are 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?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesapeake are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Chesapeake, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.