Chesapeake VA Strangulation Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Strangulation is a serious felony assault charge in Chesapeake, Virginia, prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. A conviction can result in up to 5 years in prison and a permanent felony record. As a Chesapeake VA strangulation lawyer, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense, with documented results in Chesapeake courts. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Strangulation Law and Penalties
In Virginia, strangulation is defined as impeding the blood circulation or respiration of another person by applying pressure to the neck, resulting in wounding or bodily injury. This is a distinct charge from simple assault and is codified under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. The law treats this as a form of felony assault due to the high risk of serious injury or death.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We understand that these charges often arise in highly charged domestic situations where the full context is critical to your defense.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 (Strangulation) – Official statute from the Virginia General Assembly.
- Chesapeake General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Defending Strangulation Charges in Chesapeake Court
A key local procedural fact is that strangulation charges in Chesapeake are typically initiated in the Chesapeake General District Court for a preliminary hearing before potentially moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively. As a violent crime attorney, we know that the prosecution must prove specific intent and actual wounding or bodily injury. Common defense strategies involve challenging the evidence of injury, arguing a lack of specific intent, or presenting context that shows the act was accidental or in self-defense. Our wounding defense lawyer approach meticulously examines medical reports and witness statements.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or receiving a summons. We will review the police narrative and any available evidence with you.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: We will obtain all discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney, including 911 calls, witness statements, and medical records, to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: We may file motions to suppress evidence obtained unlawfully or motions to dismiss if the facts alleged do not meet the legal standard for strangulation.
- Negotiation & Trial Strategy: We will engage in plea negotiations with the prosecutor, seeking a reduction to a misdemeanor or dismissal. If a fair offer is not made, we are prepared to take your felony assault defense to trial in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
- Resolution & Post-Trial: We will guide you through the final resolution, whether it’s an acquittal, favorable plea, or, if convicted, advocating for the most lenient sentence possible under the circumstances.
Potential Penalties for Strangulation in Virginia
In Chesapeake, a strangulation conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 is a Class 6 felony, carrying 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (§ 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, protective orders, immigration consequences, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With a combined 120+ years of attorney experience and over 4,739 case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to your defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive representation. In Chesapeake, we have documented favorable outcomes in criminal cases. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides a strategic advantage in constructing defenses against serious charges like strangulation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our approach to defending strangulation charges is informed by our extensive experience. In Chesapeake, we have documented results in criminal cases. For instance, our team has successfully argued for the reduction of felony charges to misdemeanors and secured dismissals where the evidence of injury was insufficient. A seasoned violent crime attorney like Bryan Block understands how to challenge the prosecution’s narrative effectively.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Chesapeake VA Strangulation Lawyer Near Me
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Chesapeake General District Court (307 Albemarle Drive). We are accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. If you need a strangulation lawyer near Chesapeake, Deep Creek, or Great Bridge, we are here to help. We serve the communities of Chesapeake, Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — 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.
FAQs: Strangulation Charges in Chesapeake, VA
Is strangulation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Strangulation resulting in wounding or bodily injury is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison.
What is the difference between assault and strangulation?
Strangulation is a specific felony assault charge that requires impeding blood flow or breathing and causing a wound or bodily injury. Simple assault or assault and battery are generally misdemeanors. A wounding defense lawyer can explain how the specific facts of your case affect the charges.
Can strangulation charges be dropped?
It depends. Charges may be dropped if the alleged victim recants, if evidence of injury is lacking, or if a self-defense claim is strong. An experienced assault charges lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors for a nolle prosequi (drop) or reduction to a misdemeanor.
What should I do if I am charged with strangulation?
Do not speak to police or investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a Chesapeake VA strangulation lawyer. Preserve any evidence, such as text messages or witness information, that may support your side of the story.
Do I need a lawyer for a strangulation charge?
Yes. Given the severe felony penalties and complex evidence involved, you need a skilled felony assault defense attorney to protect your rights, challenge the prosecution’s case, and work toward the best possible outcome.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other serious charges, our firm can help. Explore our resources for Virginia Criminal Defense. For charges in nearby areas, see our pages for a Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or a Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal issues in Chesapeake, consider a Chesapeake DUI lawyer or a Chesapeake family law lawyer.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.