Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes offenses from assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to theft and drug crimes. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to build your defense.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Resources:
Your case starts at the Fairfax County General District Court for misdemeanors or a felony preliminary hearing. Felony trials move to Fairfax County Circuit Court. The process involves arraignment, discovery, and pre-trial motions.
- Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at the General District Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The prosecution must show probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or reaches a negotiated resolution.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program may apply |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We have achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Fairfax County criminal defense is led by attorneys with firsthand insight: a former Virginia State Trooper and a former Maryland prosecutor.
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 501 documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County: 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 143 charges reduced or amended, and 5 other favorable outcomes—a 97% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road). We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County Courthouse, serving Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (using a bail bondsman) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney protects your rights and can lead to better outcomes, such as dismissal or reduction of charges.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
The General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense with potential jail time.
Explore more: Virginia criminal defense lawyer | Nearby: Fairfax City criminal defense lawyer, Falls Church criminal defense lawyer | Related: Fairfax County DUI lawyer, Fairfax County family law lawyer. Attorney profile: Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.