What happens at a criminal arraignment in Colonial Heights
You were arrested or received a summons to appear at the Colonial Heights General District Court on the Boulevard. You’re unsure what that first court date means and what you should do. That hearing is your arraignment — the formal start of your criminal case. At the arraignment, the court will advise you of the charges, you will enter a plea, and the judge will address bond and set future dates. You have the right to have a lawyer present. Having an experienced defense attorney at your side can help you understand the process, protect your rights, and begin building your defense strategy. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation about your Colonial Heights matter. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders.
Strategy Options at Your Arraignment
Your first decision is whether to be represented by counsel. You are not required to hire a lawyer, but a criminal charge — even a misdemeanor — can have lifelong consequences. At the arraignment, you may ask the court for time to hire an attorney. If you cannot afford one, you may qualify for a court-appointed lawyer. Having Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel on your side from the beginning allows them to examine the Commonwealth’s evidence, identify procedural issues, and start building your defense before the next court date.
You will be asked to enter a plea. You may plead not guilty, guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest). Pleading not guilty preserves your right to contest the charges. If you need more time to consider your options, your lawyer can request a continuance. In some cases, the attorney may discuss a resolution with the prosecutor, though any agreement must be approved by the court.
What To Expect at Colonial Heights General District Court
Arraignments for misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings are typically heard at the Colonial Heights General District Court, located at 550 Boulevard, Colonial Heights, VA 23834. When you arrive, check the docket for your name and courtroom assignment. The judge will call your case, read the charges, and explain your rights. You will then enter a plea. The court may also address bond — whether you will be released or detained pending trial. If bond is set, the magistrate will determine the amount and conditions. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors, while secured bond is typical for felonies.
After the arraignment, your case will be continued for a trial date or a preliminary hearing if it is a felony. The timeline depends on the court’s calendar and the complexity of the matter. Your attorney will guide you through each step, from discovery to possible pretrial motions, and will represent you at all subsequent hearings.
Penalty Overview
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by the potential punishment. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault and battery or petit larceny under $1,000, carries up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to six months and a $1,000 fine. Felonies are more serious. A Class 5 felony is punishable by one to ten years (or, at a jury’s discretion, up to twelve months and a fine), while a Class 6 felony carries one to five years. Many offenses, including drug possession and first-offense domestic assault, have deferred-disposition programs available under Virginia Code § 18.2-251 or § 18.2-57.3, which can lead to dismissal after successful completion of probation.
Because the stakes are high, it is important to have a lawyer who understands Colonial Heights court procedure. An experienced attorney can evaluate the charges, identify potential defenses, and advocate for favorable outcomes — whether that means a dismissal, a reduction, or a favorable plea agreement. For a full statutory breakdown, see our comprehensive analysis on srislawyer.com.
Attorney Credentials
Mr. Sris founded Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 1997. A former prosecutor, he brings a prosecutor’s insight to criminal defense. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Together with his Of Counsel — experienced attorneys who work collaboratively on every case — Mr. Sris provides a deep bench of legal knowledge. The team draws on over 120 years of combined legal experience between Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens at a criminal arraignment in Colonial Heights?
At an arraignment, you are formally told the charges, you enter a plea, and the court addresses bond and schedules your next court date. The judge will inform you of your rights, including the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, you may apply for a court-appointed lawyer. The arraignment is not a trial, and no evidence is presented. It is your first opportunity to have a lawyer by your side to advise you. For guidance on your specific situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Do I need a lawyer at my arraignment?
You are not required to have a lawyer, but having one can help you avoid mistakes that could hurt your case later. An attorney can argue for a lower bond, negotiate with the prosecutor, and ensure your rights are protected. Even a simple plea entered without advice can have consequences. Many people use the arraignment to request time to hire counsel. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel can appear with you. To discuss the details of your matter, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Can I change my plea after arraignment?
Yes. A not-guilty plea can later be changed to guilty or no contest if a plea agreement is reached. Changing a guilty plea is more difficult and requires court approval. That is why it is important to consult a lawyer before entering any plea. Your attorney will review the evidence and advise you on the trusted strategy before you make a final decision.
What should I bring to my arraignment?
Bring the summons, a valid ID, and any documents your lawyer instructs you to have. Do not bring weapons. Dress respectfully. Arrive early to allow time for parking and to meet with your lawyer. If you are represented, your attorney will guide you on what to say and do. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel at (888) 437-7747.
What if I miss my arraignment in Colonial Heights?
Missing your arraignment can result in the judge issuing a capias — a warrant for your arrest. Contact your lawyer immediately if you realize you will be late or cannot appear. Your attorney may be able to have the warrant recalled or negotiate a new date. Do not ignore the court date. A failure to appear can lead to additional charges.
How does bond work at Colonial Heights General District Court?
After arrest, a magistrate sets bond based on flight risk and danger to the community. For a first-offense misdemeanor, you may be released on personal recognizance without payment. For felonies, a secured bond is typical, often requiring a bail bondsman who charges a non-refundable fee. The arraignment judge can review and modify bond. Having a lawyer present to argue for a reasonable bond can make a difference.
Request a Consultation
If you or a family member has an arraignment at the Colonial Heights General District Court, speak with an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel. Our Richmond Location is at 7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225. By appointment only.
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