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. You need a defense that understands local court procedures at the Dinwiddie County General District Court. Our firm provides full representation, using our experience to handle the details of your case.
Virginia Criminal Law in Dinwiddie County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault, can result in up to 12 months incarceration and a $2,500 fine. Felonies like grand larceny (theft over $1,000) carry potential prison sentences of one to twenty years.
Last verified: March 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Dinwiddie County court information, visit the Dinwiddie County General District Court website.
Local Court Process in Dinwiddie County
Your case will begin at the Dinwiddie County General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all charges. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense with potential jail time.
- Attend your arraignment at Dinwiddie County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review discovery and file pre-trial motions if needed.
- Explore plea negotiations or prepare for a bench trial in GDC.
- For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- If the case proceeds to Dinwiddie County Circuit Court, prepare for a jury trial.
- After resolution, discuss expungement eligibility for dismissals or acquittals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Dinwiddie County, a criminal conviction carries significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while felonies can result in years of imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 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 | Restitution, record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman, is more likely for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to over $445 for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Our Firm’s Background in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on a case-specific approach for each client in Dinwiddie County.
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
Documented 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.
Serving Dinwiddie County and Nearby Areas
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts. As a criminal defense lawyer near Dinwiddie Courthouse, we represent individuals in Dinwiddie, McKenney, and surrounding communities.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (when a prosecutor drops charges). Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. A lawyer protects your rights and can seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
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 jail-eligible offense.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, see our pages for DUI defense in Dinwiddie County and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.