Assault Lawyer Near Me
If you are looking for an assault lawyer near me in the Arlington, Virginia area, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced criminal defense representation for individuals facing assault and battery charges. Our firm, founded in 1997, represents clients in Arlington County and throughout Northern Virginia. An assault charge can have serious consequences—a conviction may result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, is a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive combined legal experience to assault defense. We work to protect your rights and pursue the trusted resolution in every case. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Assault Charges Mean in Arlington, Virginia
In Virginia, assault and battery is defined under Va. Code § 18.2‑57 as any intentional, unlawful touching of another person or an act that places another in reasonable fear of bodily harm. Simple assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the alleged victim is a family or household member, the charge may be brought under Va. Code § 18.2‑57.2, which carries the same Class 1 misdemeanor classification for a first offense but can escalate to a felony upon a third conviction within 20 years. A conviction under § 18.2‑57.2 also triggers a lifetime federal firearms prohibition under the Lautenberg Amendment (18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(9)).
Assault charges in Arlington are prosecuted by the Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County. Misdemeanor cases are heard in the Arlington General District Court, while felony assault matters proceed in the Arlington Circuit Court. The court process moves quickly, and the prosecution will use witness statements, medical records, and police reports to build its case. Having a knowledgeable defense attorney who understands local court procedures and the prosecutors’ approach can make a significant difference. Our firm focuses on examining the evidence, identifying procedural weaknesses, and negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a favorable resolution—whether that is a dismissal, a reduction of charges, or a not-guilty verdict at trial.
How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Assault Cases
When you are charged with assault in Arlington, our legal team takes a methodical approach. First, we review every detail of the arrest and the alleged incident—police reports, witness statements, and any video or photographic evidence. We look for constitutional violations, such as unlawful searches or failures to advise you of your rights. Our Of Counsel attorneys, including a former Virginia State Trooper, bring valuable insight into how law enforcement investigations are conducted and where procedural errors may weaken the prosecution’s case.
Once we have a thorough understanding of the facts, we develop a defense strategy tailored to your situation. Common defenses in assault cases include self‑defense, defense of others, lack of intent, false accusations, or mutual combat. We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to explore alternatives to a conviction—such as a deferred disposition under Va. Code § 19.2‑303.2 for qualifying first offenders, or amendment of a domestic assault charge to simple assault to avoid the federal firearms disability. If a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached, we are prepared to take your case to trial and argue before a judge or jury. At every stage, we keep you informed and work to minimize the impact of the charge on your future.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997 and practices across Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. A former prosecutor, he draws on firsthand knowledge of how the Commonwealth builds its cases. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys include a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney who prosecuted criminal cases in District and Circuit Courts, and a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience. This depth of prosecutorial and law‑enforcement background allows us to anticipate the opposing side’s strategy and craft a well‑prepared defense.
Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys have documented case results across all practice areas since 1997. Results may vary. The Arlington location of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is at 1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, available by appointment. Call (888) 437‑7747 to schedule a consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested for assault in Arlington?
If arrested, exercise your right to remain silent and contact a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. Do not discuss the incident with police or anyone else until you have legal counsel. Anything you say can be used against you. An attorney can guide you through the booking and bond process, and can begin building your defense immediately. You have the right to an attorney, and you should ask to speak with one before answering questions. Our team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. is available to assist you—call (888) 437‑7747.
What is the penalty for simple assault in Virginia?
Simple assault and battery is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. The court may also impose probation, community service, and anger‑management classes. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. If the assault is against a family member, additional consequences such as a protective order and a federal firearms disability may apply. The exact sentence depends on the facts of the case and the defendant’s criminal history. For guidance on possible outcomes, contact our firm at (888) 437‑7747.
Can assault charges be dropped or reduced in Arlington?
Yes, assault charges can be dismissed, reduced, or amended depending on the evidence and the prosecutor’s evaluation of the case. If the alleged victim recants, if there is insufficient evidence, or if procedural errors exist, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may agree to dismiss the charge. In some cases, a charge may be amended to a lesser offense—for example, amending a domestic assault to simple assault to remove the firearm disability. Negotiation with the prosecutor is often critical. Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys will examine every avenue to pursue a favorable resolution. To discuss your case, call (888) 437‑7747.
Do I need a lawyer for an assault charge in Virginia?
Yes, retaining an experienced criminal defense lawyer is highly advisable when facing an assault charge. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and a record that follows you for life. A lawyer can challenge the prosecution’s evidence, assert defenses such as self‑defense, and negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal or reduction. Without legal representation, you may not be aware of diversion programs, deferred dispositions, or other options that could keep the charge off your record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. offers consultations to evaluate your situation and explain your options. Call (888) 437‑7747.
How does a lawyer defend against assault charges?
Defense strategies may include self‑defense, lack of intent, false accusation, challenging witness credibility, and identifying violations of your constitutional rights. In self‑defense cases, you must show that you reasonably believed force was necessary to prevent harm to yourself or another. A lawyer will scrutinize the police investigation for Miranda violations, an unlawful arrest, or failures to collect exculpatory evidence. In Arlington, the involvement of a former prosecutor and former law‑enforcement officer on your defense team provides insight into how the state builds its case. For a consultation, reach Mr. Sris and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys at (888) 437‑7747.
For other criminal defense matters in Arlington, see our Arlington DUI defense, Arlington reckless driving attorney, Arlington drug possession lawyer, and Arlington domestic violence defense.
Primary source references: Virginia Code § 18.2‑57; Arlington County Circuit Court; Arlington County General District Court.
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.