Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Dinwiddie County, criminal charges like assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Dinwiddie County. Our firm provides full representation for misdemeanors and felonies at Dinwiddie County General District Court and Circuit Court. Contact our Richmond location by appointment only for a case-specific approach.
Virginia Criminal Law in Dinwiddie County
Virginia criminal law is defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges in Dinwiddie County include assault and battery, petit larceny (theft under $1,000), and driving on a suspended license. These cases are prosecuted by the Dinwiddie County Commonwealth’s Attorney.
Last verified: March 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the Virginia General Assembly website. For court information, see the Dinwiddie County General District Court website.
Local Court Process in Dinwiddie County
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the evidence the Commonwealth plans to use.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation: Your attorney discusses potential plea agreements with the prosecutor.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge determines your penalty based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for repeat offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Bond in Dinwiddie County is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more likely for felonies.
Our Experience in Dinwiddie County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ cases firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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 Dinwiddie County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in Dinwiddie County: 2 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 2 charges reduced or amended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, and Route 460. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Dinwiddie, McKenney, and the surrounding communities.
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
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Dinwiddie County 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 are heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
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 Dinwiddie County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for many first-offense misdemeanors in Dinwiddie County. A secured bond is typical for felonies, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10% of the bond amount.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Dinwiddie County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can protect your rights and work toward a dismissal or reduction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Dinwiddie County?
Dinwiddie County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Dinwiddie County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.