Child Abuse Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A child abuse charge in Henrico County is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-371.1, carrying severe penalties and lasting consequences. If you are facing a child abuse charge, you need a strong defense. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation for those accused.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Child Abuse Laws and Penalties
In Virginia, child abuse and neglect are defined under Va. Code § 18.2-371.1. This statute makes it a crime for any parent, guardian, or other person responsible for a child’s care to cause or permit serious injury to the child’s life or health, or willfully cause or permit a child to be placed in a situation that endangers the child’s life or health. The law covers physical abuse, neglect, and emotional maltreatment.
Child abuse is classified as a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Aggravated offenses or those resulting in serious bodily injury can be charged as more serious felonies with longer prison terms. A conviction also results in a permanent criminal record and can lead to loss of custody, parental rights, and employment.
In Henrico County, a child abuse conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-371.1 is a Class 6 felony, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison and lasting personal consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Child Abuse/Neglect (Va. Code § 18.2-371.1) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | N/A | Permanent felony record, loss of custody, CPS involvement, mandatory reporter listing |
| Aggravated Child Abuse (Serious Injury) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | N/A | Same as above, plus longer prison term |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Court Process for Child Abuse Charges in Henrico County
Child abuse cases in Henrico County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The process is emotionally charged and complex. The initial hearing for a felony child abuse charge is typically a preliminary hearing in the Henrico County General District Court at 4301 East Parham Road. At this hearing, the prosecution must show probable cause that a crime was committed and that you committed it. If the judge finds probable cause, your case is certified to the Henrico County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a magistrate for a bond hearing. An attorney can argue for your release on personal recognizance or reasonable bond.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence at the General District Court hearing to try to get the charge dismissed or reduced.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be formally arraigned in Circuit Court and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery and Investigation: Your defense team will obtain all evidence, interview witnesses, and consult with medical or child welfare experts.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence and engage in plea negotiations to seek a reduction or alternative resolution.
- Trial or Resolution: The case will proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. We understand that a false child abuse accusation lawyer Henrico County residents trust must be diligent, compassionate, and strategic. Our approach involves a thorough investigation, often working with independent medical experts and child interview specialists to challenge the prosecution’s narrative.
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
Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement professionals like Bryan Block, whose insight into investigation protocols is invaluable. For cases involving complex family dynamics, Mr. Sris, who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), provides strategic oversight. We have handled numerous sensitive cases where emotions run high, and we focus on protecting your rights while seeking the best possible resolution.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm is committed to vigorous defense. In Henrico County and across Virginia, we work to achieve outcomes that protect our clients’ futures. This can include negotiating for reduced charges, alternative sentencing, or case dismissal when the evidence supports it. We understand the severe collateral consequences of a child abuse conviction and fight to prevent them.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment.
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County and is accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We provide a child abuse lawyer Henrico County residents can consult near the Henrico County courts. We serve the communities of Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Child Abuse Defense in Henrico County
What should I do if I am falsely accused of child abuse in Henrico County?
Do not speak to police or Child Protective Services (CPS) without an attorney. Contact a false child abuse accusation lawyer Henrico County immediately. Preserve any evidence (texts, emails, witness info) that supports your innocence. An attorney can guide you through the investigation and help prevent charges from being filed.
Can a child abuse charge be dropped in Henrico County?
It depends. The Commonwealth’s Attorney can decide to drop charges (nolle prosequi) if evidence is weak, a witness recants, or an investigation reveals the accusation is false. An attorney can present exculpatory evidence to the prosecutor early in the process to seek a dismissal before trial.
What is the difference between a child abuse charge and a neglect charge?
In Virginia, both are often charged under the same statute (§ 18.2-371.1). “Abuse” typically involves intentional acts causing harm, while “neglect” involves a failure to act, resulting in harm or risk of harm. The penalties are similar, but the defense strategy differs based on the specific allegations.
Will I lose custody of my children if charged with child abuse?
Not automatically, but it is a significant risk. CPS will likely open a parallel investigation and may petition the Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court for a protective order or removal. A criminal defense attorney must often coordinate with a family law attorney to address custody issues simultaneously.
How long does a child abuse case take in Henrico County?
A misdemeanor-level case may resolve in a few months. A felony case in Circuit Court typically takes 6 months to over a year from arrest to trial, depending on case complexity, evidence, and court scheduling.
If you need a child abuse lawyer Henrico County, do not wait. The earlier we can begin building your defense, the better. Contact us 24/7 for a confidential consultation about your child abuse charge defense.
For more information, review the official Virginia child abuse statute (§ 18.2-371.1) or visit the Henrico County General District Court website.
See also: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Criminal Defense Lawyer Chesterfield County | Domestic Violence Defense Lawyer Henrico County
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change.