Simple Assault Defense Lawyer in Dinwiddie County, Virginia
Simple assault in Dinwiddie County is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Dinwiddie County. A simple assault defense lawyer Dinwiddie County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect your rights. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Dinwiddie County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Simple assault is defined by Virginia law as an unlawful attempt, coupled with the present ability, to commit a violent injury on another person, or an intentional act that places another in reasonable fear of immediate bodily harm. It does not require physical contact. This charge is distinct from assault and battery, which involves actual touching. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Dinwiddie County prosecutes these cases at the Dinwiddie County General District Court.
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-57 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Dinwiddie County Courts website.
Defending a simple assault charge requires a specific strategy. The court process involves several steps.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charge and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Discovery: Your attorney will request all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential resolutions with the prosecutor.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, your lawyer argues for minimal penalties. You may appeal to Circuit Court.
In Dinwiddie County, simple assault carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, possible protective order, employment difficulties. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris’s unique background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in dissecting case details.
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
Our firm has documented results in Dinwiddie County, including cases handled by attorney Bryan Block. For instance, we have secured dismissals for charges like “Fail to Maintain Control.” Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment.
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Dinwiddie County courts (Dinwiddie Courthouse), accessible via I-85, Route 1, Route 460, and Route 226. As a simple assault defense lawyer near Dinwiddie, we represent clients in communities like Dinwiddie and McKenney. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Simple Assault Defense in Dinwiddie County: FAQs
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). Cases are heard at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Dinwiddie County, Virginia?
It depends. 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 for a minor assault charge in Dinwiddie County?
Yes. Even misdemeanors like simple assault carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A minor assault charge lawyer Dinwiddie County can work to get charges reduced or dismissed. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at Dinwiddie County General District Court.
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.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Chesterfield County and Colonial Heights. For other legal needs in Dinwiddie County, consider our services for DUI defense or family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance on your simple assault case in Dinwiddie County.