In Henrico County, an attempt crime under Va. Code § 18.2-25 carries up to 12 months in jail as a Class 1 misdemeanor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented results in Henrico County courts. Call (888) 437-7747.
What Is an Attempt Crime Under Virginia Law?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-25, an attempt is an intentional act that goes beyond mere preparation toward committing a crime but falls short of completion. The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to commit the underlying offense and took a direct, substantial step toward completing it. This applies to both misdemeanors and felonies in Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-25 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information on attempt crimes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Henrico County General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge for Attempt Cases in Henrico County
In Henrico County General District Court, prosecutors often charge attempt as a lesser-included offense. The key is proving specific intent — without it, the charge fails.
- Step 1: Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate at Henrico County General District Court.
- Step 2: Arraignment where you enter a plea — typically 4-8 weeks from arrest for misdemeanors.
- Step 3: Discovery phase where your attorney reviews the prosecution’s evidence.
- Step 4: Pre-trial motions, including motions to dismiss for lack of specific intent.
- Step 5: Trial before a judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court on appeal).
- Step 6: Sentencing if convicted, or expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 if dismissed.
In Henrico County, an attempt crime carries penalties based on the underlying offense classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attempt (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Attempt (Felony) | Class 5 or 6 Felony | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Attempt Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has handled firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating deep knowledge of Virginia criminal law. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
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 Henrico County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented results in Henrico County: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location is near Henrico County General District Court (4301 East Parham Road), accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295.
Attempt lawyer near Henrico County — serving Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville (partial).
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Attempt Crimes in Henrico County
What is the penalty for an attempt crime in Henrico County, Virginia?
Yes. An attempt crime carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for a Class 1 misdemeanor, or 1-10 years for a Class 5 felony.
Can an attempt charge be dismissed in Henrico County?
Yes. If the prosecution cannot prove specific intent or a substantial step toward completion, the charge can be dismissed. 7 of 8 cases in Henrico County resulted in dismissal.
Do I need an attempt lawyer Henrico County for a first offense?
Yes. Even a first-offense attempt charge creates a permanent criminal record visible to employers. An attempt lawyer Henrico County can negotiate dismissal or reduction.
What is the difference between attempt and the completed crime in Henrico County?
Attempt requires specific intent plus a substantial step toward completion. The completed crime requires actual commission. Attempt carries the same classification as the underlying offense.
How long does an attempt case take in Henrico County General District Court?
A misdemeanor attempt case typically resolves in 4-8 weeks from arraignment. Felony cases take 3-9 months if they go to Circuit Court for jury trial.