Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Dinwiddie County
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses prosecuted in Dinwiddie County. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felonies are classified from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 5 (1-10 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Dinwiddie County prosecutes these cases at the Dinwiddie County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, with felony trials held in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For court procedures and information, visit the Dinwiddie County General District Court website.
How Criminal Cases Proceed in Dinwiddie County
After an arrest in Dinwiddie County, a magistrate sets a bond. First-offense misdemeanors often receive personal recognizance release. The case is docketed at Dinwiddie County General District Court. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if probable cause exists to send the case to Circuit Court for trial.
- Arrest & Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond at the Dinwiddie County Magistrate’s Office.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation or Trial: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may offer a plea deal, or the case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal or Expungement: You can appeal to Dinwiddie County Circuit Court or petition for expungement if eligible under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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, theft record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Experience in Dinwiddie County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a criminal case. We focus on strategic defense 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 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, 2 charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
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 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) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). 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?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Dinwiddie County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Dinwiddie County General District Court.
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 jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Dinwiddie County?
Dinwiddie County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Dinwiddie 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Henrico County criminal defense and Chesterfield County criminal defense. In Dinwiddie County, we also handle DUI/DWI defense and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.