Colonial Heights criminal charges carry serious penalties under Va. Code Title 18.2, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented case results in Colonial Heights courts. An Aiding and Abetting lawyer Colonial Heights can help you understand your legal options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly
Virginia law defines criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Colonial Heights prosecutes all criminal cases in this jurisdiction.
If you are facing charges, an accessory charge defense lawyer Colonial Heights can explain how Virginia law applies to your specific situation.
Review the official statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly and the Colonial Heights General District Court website.
Colonial Heights General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM at 550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834. The Honorable Matthew Donald Nelson presides as Chief Judge.
- Arrest and initial appearance before the magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment in General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Discovery phase where the prosecution shares evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court (misdemeanor) or preliminary hearing (felony).
- Appeal to Circuit Court if necessary for a new trial.
In Colonial Heights, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 under $1,000 (§ 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 | Criminal record, possible vehicle impoundment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has documented 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our attorneys bring former prosecutor experience from Virginia and Maryland to every criminal defense case.
If you need an aiding criminal activity lawyer Colonial Heights, our team understands the local court system and can build a strong defense strategy.
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
Secondary attorney: Kristen M. Fisher — Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, joined firm 2010. Bar admissions: Maryland, Virginia. Ms. Fisher’s former prosecutor background strengthens our criminal defense team.
In Colonial Heights, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Examples include:
- Reckless driving 76/55 (Va. Code § 46.2-862) — Dismissed in Colonial Heights General District Court
- Speeding 53/35 (Va. Code § 46.2-875) — Dismissed in Colonial Heights General District Court
- Reckless driving passing school bus (Va. Code § 46.2-859) — Amended to improper driving
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location is approximately 20 minutes from Colonial Heights General District Court, accessible via I-95 and Route 144 (Temple Avenue).
Searching for a criminal defense lawyer near Colonial Heights? We serve clients throughout the Colonial Heights area.
Neighborhoods served: Colonial Heights.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Colonial Heights 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 Colonial Heights General District Court (550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Colonial Heights, 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 Colonial Heights Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Colonial Heights. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Colonial Heights General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Colonial Heights are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Colonial Heights General District Court (550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834). 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 Colonial Heights?
Colonial Heights General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Colonial Heights 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Hub page
Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Nearby locality
Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Nearby locality
Colonial Heights DUI Lawyer — Related practice area
Colonial Heights Family Law Lawyer — Related practice area
Bryan Block — Criminal Defense Attorney