In Chesapeake, an attempt to commit a crime is a serious charge under Va. Code Title 18.2. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake. An attempt lawyer Chesapeake can help you fight these allegations. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
Virginia law defines an attempt as an act done with the intent to commit a crime that goes beyond mere preparation but falls short of completing the offense. Under Va. Code Title 18.2, an attempt to commit a felony is punishable as a Class 6 felony, carrying 1-5 years in prison. An attempt to commit a misdemeanor is a Class 1 misdemeanor, with up to 12 months in jail. The prosecution must prove both the specific intent to commit the underlying crime and a direct, substantial step toward its completion. An attempt lawyer Chesapeake understands these elements and can challenge weak evidence of intent or insufficient action.
For the official Virginia statute on criminal attempts, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Chesapeake General District Court handles all misdemeanor attempt trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you took a substantial step toward committing the crime. Your attempt lawyer Chesapeake can argue that your actions were mere preparation, not a true attempt.
- Step 1: Contact an attempt lawyer Chesapeake immediately after arrest.
- Step 2: Your attorney reviews the police report for evidence of intent.
- Step 3: File a motion to dismiss if the prosecution cannot show a substantial step.
- Step 4: Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Step 5: Prepare for trial at Chesapeake General District Court if no plea is reached.
In Chesapeake, an attempt to commit a felony carries 1-5 years in prison, while an attempt to commit a misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Attempt to commit a felony | Class 6 felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Attempt to commit a misdemeanor | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 4,739+ documented case results. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds attempt cases. An attempt lawyer Chesapeake from our firm uses this experience to challenge incomplete offense charges.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Chesapeake: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Richmond location serves clients at Chesapeake courts (307 Albemarle Drive), accessible via I-64, I-464, and I-664. We serve Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. An attempt lawyer Chesapeake is available near you.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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Yes, an attempt to commit a felony is a Class 6 felony in Virginia, carrying 1-5 years in prison.
No, Virginia does not allow expungement for attempt convictions. Only acquittals and dismissals qualify under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
It depends. The prosecution must prove both intent and a substantial step. An attempt lawyer Chesapeake can challenge weak evidence.
Yes, an attempt to commit a misdemeanor is a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Yes, the court can set bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense attempt charges in Chesapeake.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. Compare with Henrico County Criminal Defense Lawyer or Chesterfield County Criminal Defense Lawyer. Related services: DUI Lawyer Chesapeake and Family Law Lawyer Chesapeake.
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Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.