Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Fairfax County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County. Our former prosecutors provide direct defense against charges from assault to theft. You need a lawyer who knows the Fairfax County General District Court procedures and the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s approach.
Criminal Charges Defined by Virginia Law
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties set by statute. A misdemeanor is a less serious offense, but a conviction still creates a permanent record.
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines specific acts as crimes. The classification determines the court, potential penalties, and long-term consequences for your record.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Fairfax County court information, visit the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Court Process for Criminal Cases
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The process moves quickly after an arrest.
- Initial appearance and bond hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at Fairfax County General District Court: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The court schedules future hearings.
- Discovery and pre-trial motions: Your lawyer reviews evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. We file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if the law supports it.
- Trial or plea negotiation: For misdemeanors, a bench trial happens in GDC. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if evidence supports a trial in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia guidelines. You can appeal a GDC decision to Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Permanent criminal record; possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Record affects employment; possible restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Court discretion | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights while incarcerated |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain prior offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums set by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Firm Credentials in Fairfax County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct knowledge of local court procedures.
In Fairfax County, our documented results show a consistent pattern of favorable outcomes for clients facing criminal charges.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Documented Case Results in Fairfax County
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 resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County Courts
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County General District Court on Chain Bridge Road. We represent individuals from 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.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement 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. 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fairfax County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Falls Church and Prince William County. If you have related issues, consider our pages on DUI defense in Fairfax County or reckless driving defense. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current guidance on your Fairfax County criminal case, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.