Chesapeake criminal charges carry up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). A Health Care Fraud lawyer Chesapeake can help you understand your options. Contact us 24/7.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Chesapeake
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). In Chesapeake, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all criminal cases. A Class 1 misdemeanor under § 18.2-57 (assault and battery) carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). A Health Care Fraud lawyer Chesapeake can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official statute information, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: Chesapeake General District Court
Chesapeake 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 307 Albemarle Drive.
In Chesapeake, prosecutors routinely offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 for eligible defendants. Successful completion results in dismissal.
- Arrest and booking at Chesapeake City Jail.
- Magistrate sets bond — personal recognizance common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at Chesapeake General District Court within 72 hours.
- Discovery phase — your attorney reviews evidence from the Commonwealth.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or plea hearing before the judge.
In Chesapeake, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending on the classification.
| 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 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Chesapeake Criminal Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute), demonstrating the firm’s deep understanding of Virginia law. A Health Care Fraud lawyer Chesapeake from our team can provide the experienced representation you need.
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 Fisher — Former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, joined firm 2010. Bar: Maryland, Virginia.
Case Results in Chesapeake
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Chesapeake Criminal Defense Services
Distance: Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664.
Near-Me: Criminal defense lawyer near Chesapeake, near Greenbrier and Great Bridge.
Neighborhoods Served: Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, Greenbrier.
Availability: 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
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Chesapeake
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?
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 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?
Yes. 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
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