Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law is defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute covers offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny. The law establishes classifications, penalties, and procedures for prosecution in Fairfax County courts.
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. The firm’s background in law enforcement and prosecution provides direct insight into how cases are built and challenged.
Official Legal Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For Fairfax County court procedures, visit the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County 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. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can result in dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center.
- First appearance/arraignment at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road).
- Pre-trial conferences and motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Misdemeanor trial in GDC or preliminary hearing for felony charges.
- For felonies, indictment and transfer to Fairfax County Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or participation in diversion programs like first offender.
Criminal Penalties in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail/$2,500; Class 5 felonies 1-10 years.
| 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 typically | Protective order, no contact |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, theft record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman (approximately 10% fee). Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. The firm has achieved firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline reflects our approach: “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
In Fairfax County, clients have noted the firm’s “thorough preparation and courtroom confidence” in handling criminal matters.
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—a 97% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Service
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fairfax County courts (4110 Chain Bridge Road). We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County Courthouse, accessible via major highways. We serve 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.
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Fairfax City and Falls Church. In Fairfax County, we handle related matters like DUI defense and reckless driving. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.