In Hanover County, a criminal charge under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries serious consequences. A Class 1 misdemeanor can mean up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty. Contact a Securities Fraud lawyer Hanover County for a consultation by appointment.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Hanover County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors range from Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 4 (up to 30 days, $250 fine). Felonies range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Hanover County prosecutes all cases at the Hanover County General District Court, located at 7507 Library Drive, Suite 201, Hanover, VA 23069. A Securities Fraud lawyer Hanover County understands these classifications and how they apply to your case.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources for Hanover County Criminal Cases
For the complete text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly legislative information system. For court procedures, dockets, and forms, visit the Hanover County General District Court official website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Hanover County Court
Hanover County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
Hanover County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from the General District Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: Appear before the judge to hear charges and enter a plea. This typically occurs within 4-8 weeks of arrest for misdemeanors.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any video footage.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or negotiate with the prosecutor for a favorable resolution.
- Trial or Plea: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to trial before a judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court).
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties within statutory guidelines. First-offender programs may still be available.
In Hanover County, 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 (§ 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 |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights, firearm prohibition |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Hanover County Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington, D.C. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to effect real change in Virginia law. This achievement is a powerful differentiator in the Virginia legal market.
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: Mr. Sris, founder and former prosecutor, oversees all criminal defense matters at the firm.
Hanover County Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Hanover County: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Hanover County Criminal Defense Services
Our Richmond Location serves clients at Hanover County courts (7507 Library Drive). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 301, and Route 33.
Searching for a Securities Fraud lawyer Hanover County near you? We serve clients near the historic Hanover Courthouse and throughout the area.
We serve the communities of Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Hanover County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Hanover County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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 Hanover County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Hanover County, 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 Hanover County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Hanover County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Hanover County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Hanover County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Hanover County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Hanover County General District Court. 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 Hanover County?
Hanover County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Hanover County 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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Hanover County DUI Lawyer
- Hanover County Family Law Lawyer
- Bryan Block — Attorney Profile
- Our Richmond Location
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.