Criminal Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Dinwiddie County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties, including up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Dinwiddie County, with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper provide a case-specific approach for your defense at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in Dinwiddie County
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in the Virginia Code. Common charges in Dinwiddie County include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (Va. Code § 46.2-301). These cases are prosecuted by the Dinwiddie County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and information for Dinwiddie County are available on 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.
- After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Your first court date is the arraignment at Dinwiddie County General District Court, where you enter a plea.
- For misdemeanors, a trial date is set. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if there is enough evidence for trial in Circuit Court.
- You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Dinwiddie County Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- If eligible, you may petition for expungement of charges that resulted in acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Dinwiddie County
In Dinwiddie County, criminal charges carry a range of penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in 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 | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Criminal record, DMV points |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Our Experience in Virginia Criminal Defense
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 a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide. Our approach is based on direct experience with how cases are built and prosecuted in Virginia courts.
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 in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Dinwiddie County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts, 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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.
How does bail work in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. 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 are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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 (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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Henrico County and Chesterfield County. In Dinwiddie County, we handle related matters such as DUI defense and reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Bryan Block.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.