Criminal Defense Lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia
A criminal conviction creates a permanent record. Early intervention by an experienced defense team can protect your future.
Virginia Criminal Law in Henrico County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies. Misdemeanors are divided into four classes, with Class 1 being the most serious. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Henrico County prosecutes all criminal cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this deep legal knowledge to build strong defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – Official Virginia statute from the General Assembly.
- Henrico County General District Court Website – Official .gov site for court information, forms, and procedures.
Henrico County Court Process
Henrico County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Henrico County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: At Henrico County GDC (4301 East Parham Road), you enter a plea. The court schedules future dates.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Discovery & Negotiation: The Commonwealth provides evidence. Your lawyer negotiates for reduced charges or diversion programs.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials are in GDC. Felony jury trials move to Circuit Court. A plea agreement may be the best path.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia guidelines. Appeals from GDC go to Henrico County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges
In Henrico County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to years in prison. A Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months jail; a Class 6 felony means 1-5 years.
| 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, employment barriers |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or higher) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
| First Offense Marijuana Possession | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Deferred disposition may be available |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how cases are built and challenged. We focus on the Henrico County area and surrounding communities.
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
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Henrico County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Henrico 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 heard at Henrico County General District Court (4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228). 8 documented results: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Henrico 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 Henrico County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 8 documented results: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Henrico County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Henrico County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Henrico County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Henrico County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Henrico County General District Court (4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 8 documented results: 7 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Henrico County?
Henrico County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Henrico 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. Henrico County General District Court (4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228) is the GDC location.
Documented Case Results in Henrico County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 8 documented criminal defense results in Henrico County: 7 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 1 charge reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases. Each case is unique, and we work to achieve the best possible result given the specific facts and law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Henrico County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Henrico County courts. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. We serve the Glen Allen, Short Pump, Innsbrook, Tuckahoe, Highland Springs, and Mechanicsville areas. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page.
- Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Serving a neighboring locality.
- Henrico County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same county.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile – Learn more about your assigned counsel.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.