Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Criminal charges in Virginia are defined by statute. The Virginia General Assembly codifies offenses and penalties in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. His background provides insight into case construction from both sides.
Official Legal Resources
Review the statutes and court procedures directly:
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly website.
- Fairfax County General District Court website — .gov domain for court information.
Fairfax County Criminal Court Process
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, are formally advised of the charges, and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: If incarcerated, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or you may negotiate a plea agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence. You have an absolute right to appeal to Fairfax County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| 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 |
| 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 subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Experience in Fairfax County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides global advocacy with local precision. Founded in 1997, our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on the details of Fairfax County procedures.
Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, offering a complete perspective on case strategy.
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
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 outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are accessible to residents throughout the area.
We serve the communities of 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
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 and battery, petit larceny, and driving on a suspended license. Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
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 a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman, is more likely for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney who knows the Fairfax County General District Court procedures is critical for protecting your rights and exploring all options.
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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Resources
Explore our other legal services:
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state-level hub page.
- Fairfax City Criminal Defense Lawyer — serving a neighboring locality.
- Fairfax County DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area in the same locality.
- View Attorney Kristen Fisher’s Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.