In Chesapeake, 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 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty. A Money Laundering lawyer Chesapeake can help you understand your options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesapeake prosecutes all criminal charges in the city. A Money Laundering lawyer Chesapeake can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings unique insight to criminal defense strategy.
For the official criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and rules, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at 307 Albemarle Drive. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Appear at your arraignment at Chesapeake General District Court, 307 Albemarle Drive.
- Request a copy of the criminal complaint and any police reports from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Discuss first offender eligibility with your attorney before the pretrial conference.
- File any pretrial motions, such as suppression of evidence, within 21 days of arraignment.
- Attend all scheduled court dates; failure to appear results in a bench warrant.
- Negotiate a plea or proceed to trial; you have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
In Chesapeake, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Grand Larceny over $1,000 (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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+ cases firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” A Money Laundering lawyer Chesapeake from our team can provide strong defense.
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
In Chesapeake, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, the firm has 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. A Money Laundering lawyer Chesapeake is available near the Greenbrier area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
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).
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.
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.
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.
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.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you need a DUI lawyer in Chesapeake or a family law lawyer in Chesapeake, we can help. Visit our Richmond office location page for directions.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.