In Colonial Heights, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented case results in Colonial Heights with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Former prosecutors on staff.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Last verified: April 2026 | Colonial Heights General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies. Misdemeanors range from Class 1 (most serious) to Class 4. Felonies range from Class 1 to Class 6. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Colonial Heights prosecutes all criminal cases at the Colonial Heights General District Court and Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides criminal defense representation in Colonial Heights.
Review the official Virginia criminal code at Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Colonial Heights General District Court website for court procedures and schedules.
Insider Procedural Edge for Colonial Heights Criminal Cases
Colonial Heights General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court at 550 Boulevard operates Monday through Friday 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can result in dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before the magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment at Colonial Heights General District Court within 72 hours.
- Discovery phase where the prosecution shares evidence with your defense.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial before the judge in General District Court or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or appeal within 10 days of the verdict.
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 (§ 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 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Colonial Heights Criminal Case
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 handled 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to shape Virginia 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 Colonial Heights
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 total documented case results across all practice areas in Colonial Heights with a 100% favorable outcome rate. One notable result: a reckless driving charge (76/55 under Va. Code § 46.2-862) was dismissed at Colonial Heights General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Colonial Heights Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Colonial Heights courts (550 Boulevard). The location is accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 144 (Temple Avenue), and Route 36. We serve the Colonial Heights community.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Colonial Heights? Our firm provides representation for clients throughout the area.
Neighborhoods served: Colonial Heights.
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 Criminal Defense in Colonial Heights
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Colonial Heights, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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. Cases are heard at Colonial Heights General District Court.
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. 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 is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond 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. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Colonial Heights DUI Lawyer
- Colonial Heights Family Law Lawyer
Learn more about our team: Bryan Block | Visit our Richmond location.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.