Attempt to Commit a Felony Defense Lawyer in Hanover County, Virginia
An attempt to commit a felony in Hanover County is a serious charge under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Hanover County courts.
Virginia Law on Attempt to Commit a Felony
In Virginia, an attempt to commit a felony is a distinct crime defined under Va. Code § 18.2-26. The statute makes it unlawful to attempt to commit any felony offense. The prosecution must prove two key elements beyond a reasonable doubt: (1) a specific intent to commit the underlying felony, and (2) a direct, overt act toward its commission that goes beyond mere preparation. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm understands the nuances of proving intent and action in these cases.
Last verified: April 2026 | Hanover County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-26 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Hanover County General District Court website.
Defending an Attempt Charge in Hanover County
Defending an attempt charge requires challenging the prosecution’s evidence on both intent and the overt act. In Hanover County Circuit Court, where felony trials are held, prosecutors must demonstrate a clear, substantial step toward the felony’s completion. Our defense strategy often involves showing that the defendant’s actions amounted only to preparation or that they lacked the specific intent required for the underlying felony. An attempted felony defense lawyer Hanover County from our team examines police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence to identify weaknesses in the Commonwealth’s case.
- Case Assessment: Immediately after arrest or charge, we secure all evidence and police reports to evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case regarding intent and overt act.
- Preliminary Hearing: If charged by warrant, a hearing in Hanover County General District Court determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court. This is a key early stage to challenge the evidence.
- Investigation & Motion Filing: We conduct a independent investigation, which may include reviewing surveillance, interviewing witnesses, and consulting experts. Pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge are filed in Circuit Court.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, we engage in negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal. If no fair offer is made, we are prepared to take the case to a jury trial in Hanover County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Attempt to Commit a Felony
In Hanover County, an attempt to commit a felony is generally punished at one classification lower than the completed felony, but still carries significant jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Underlying Felony Attempted | Attempt Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Felony (e.g., Murder) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, professional license revocation. |
| Class 2 Felony | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, severe impact on employment and housing. |
| Class 3 Felony | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
| Class 4 Felony | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months if jail authorized) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent criminal record, potential probation. |
| Class 5 Felony | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months if jail authorized) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent criminal record. |
| Class 6 Felony | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Misdemeanor record. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Hanover County Courts
Since 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has built a record of defending clients across Virginia. Our firm-wide experience spans over 120 combined years. In Hanover County, we have documented results defending serious charges. Our approach is grounded in a deep understanding of Virginia criminal law and the local legal field. For an incomplete crime defense lawyer Hanover County, our team provides diligent representation focused on protecting your future.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
Our commitment is to achieve the best possible outcome in every case. In Hanover County, we have documented results defending clients. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. Attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including former death penalty certification and a 14-year contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, brings additional depth to our defense team on complex cases.
Hanover County Attempt to Commit a Felony Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at Hanover County courts. We are accessible via I-95, I-295, Route 1, Route 301, and Route 33, serving Mechanicsville, Ashland, Atlee, Beaverdam, and Doswell.
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
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an “overt act” in an attempt case?
It depends. An overt act is a direct, substantial step toward committing the felony that goes beyond mere preparation. Virginia courts examine if the act strongly corroborated the defendant’s criminal intent. Examples could include purchasing specific tools for a burglary or traveling to a location to commit an assault.
Can an attempt charge be dismissed?
Yes. An attempt to commit a felony charge can be dismissed if the defense successfully argues lack of probable cause, insufficient evidence of intent, or that the act was merely preparation. Motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence can also lead to dismissal.
What is the difference between attempt and conspiracy?
Attempt involves one person’s intent and overt act. Conspiracy (Va. Code § 18.2-22) requires an agreement between two or more people to commit a felony and an overt act by any conspirator to further that agreement. Both are serious, but conspiracy charges can involve multiple defendants.
Should I speak to the police if I’m suspected of an attempt?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Anything you say can be used to prove your intent, a critical element of the crime. Politely decline to answer questions and request a lawyer immediately.
How can a lawyer help with an attempt to commit a felony charge?
An attempt to commit a felony lawyer Hanover County can challenge the evidence of intent and the overt act, negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge, file pre-trial motions, and represent you at trial. Early intervention is key to investigating the facts and protecting your rights.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides representation for criminal defense in Hanover County, DUI/DWI charges, and sex crime defense across Virginia. For similar defense in nearby areas, see our pages for Henrico County and Chesterfield County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For the background behind a Hanover County charge, our page explains how Virginia courts handle a attempt to commit a felony charge.