Domestic Violence Lawyer Henrico County, VA
The argument got out of hand, a neighbor called 911, and now you are facing a domestic violence charge in Henrico County, Virginia. A conviction can mean jail time, a lasting criminal record, and the loss of your firearm rights. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. defends clients against domestic assault and battery charges throughout the Richmond‑area counties. To request a consultation, reach our location at (888) 437‑7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options
Defending a domestic violence charge involves more than just showing up in court. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel examine every detail — from the 911 call to the officer’s report — looking for procedural errors, inconsistent statements, or evidence of self‑defense. In many Henrico County cases, the Commonwealth’s Attorney will consider reducing a charge from domestic assault (Va. Code § 18.2‑57.2) to simple assault (Va. Code § 18.2‑57), which avoids the federal firearm prohibition that follows a domestic violence conviction. For a first offense, Virginia law also permits deferred disposition: if the defendant completes court‑ordered conditions, the charge may be dismissed altogether.
What to Expect in Henrico County Courts
Domestic violence cases begin with an arrest and an appearance before a magistrate who sets bond. Misdemeanor charges — including most first‑offense domestic assault and battery cases — are heard in the Henrico County General District Court, located at 4301 East Parham Road, Henrico, VA 23228. At arraignment you will enter a plea; if you plead not guilty, the court schedules a trial date. Defendants have the right to appeal any General District Court conviction to the Henrico County Circuit Court for a new trial. Throughout this process, having an attorney who understands the local prosecutors and judges can help you evaluate whether to negotiate a plea, seek a deferred disposition, or take the case to trial.
Penalty Overview
A first‑offense domestic assault and battery — Va. Code § 18.2‑57.2 — is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia. Penalties can include up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A third conviction for domestic assault within 20 years elevates the charge to a Class 6 felony. Beyond the immediate sentence, a domestic violence conviction triggers a lifetime federal firearms disability under 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9) and can affect child‑custody decisions and employment background checks. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel work to pursue resolutions that minimize these long‑term consequences. Every case is different; Results may vary.
Attorney Credentials
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor with experience in criminal trial work. He has practiced since 1997 and is admitted in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Supporting him is an Of Counsel team that includes a former Virginia State Trooper — bringing firsthand knowledge of police investigation techniques to the defense. Together they bring over 120 years of combined legal experience, supported by 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm has documented 8 favorable outcomes in Henrico County domestic‑violence matters, including 7 dismissals or not‑guilty findings and 1 charge reduction. In your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am charged with domestic violence in Henrico County?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the facts of the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve any text messages, emails, or other evidence that may be relevant. Obey any protective order issued by the magistrate, even if you believe it is unjust — violating it can lead to additional charges. Virginia law imposes strict deadlines, and early attorney involvement can affect bond decisions and the direction of the prosecutor’s case.
Can I avoid a conviction for a first‑offense domestic violence charge?
Yes, Virginia law allows deferred disposition for a first domestic assault and battery charge under Virginia law. If the court places you on probation with conditions such as an anger‑management program or community service, and you complete the conditions successfully, the charge may be dismissed. An experienced domestic violence lawyer can advocate for this option and help you comply with the court’s requirements.
How does a domestic violence charge affect my right to own a firearm?
A conviction for domestic assault under Va. Code § 18.2‑57.2 triggers a lifetime federal ban on possessing firearms. This prohibition applies even for a misdemeanor conviction and cannot be waived for hunting or employment. If the charge is amended to simple assault (§ 18.2‑57) the firearm disability does not attach. Because of this, negotiating a charge amendment is often a central goal of the defense.
Do I need a lawyer for a domestic violence case in Henrico County?
Yes; a domestic violence charge carries serious penalties and long‑term consequences that are difficult to manage without legal representation. An attorney can challenge the evidence, negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, explore deferred disposition eligibility, and protect your record. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in the Henrico County General District Court and Circuit Court and understand how domestic violence cases are handled in these courts. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437‑7747.
Related practice: Criminal lawyer Chesterfield County · Criminal lawyer Hanover County · Criminal lawyer Fairfax County
Virginia legal resources: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) · Henrico County General District Court · Henrico County Circuit Court · Comprehensive statutory analysis at srislawyer.com
Schedule a consultation: Call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747. Our Richmond location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225 — serves clients throughout Henrico County by appointment only.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.
Results may vary.