Falls Church Criminal Defense Lawyer — What Are Your Rights?
In Falls Church, Virginia, criminal charges like assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) and petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96) are prosecuted at the Falls Church General District Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented results in Falls Church: 5 dismissed/not guilty and 1 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a strong defense strategy from your first court date.
Virginia Criminal Law in Falls Church
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a prosecutor’s insight to building your defense.
Last verified: March 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly statute.
- Falls Church General District Court website — official Virginia court information.
Falls Church Court Process for Criminal Cases
Falls Church General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Falls Church prosecutes cases at 300 Park Avenue. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arraignment: You appear in Falls Church GDC, hear the charges, and enter a plea.
- Pretrial Conference: Your attorney discusses the case with the prosecutor, seeking dismissal or reduction.
- Motion Hearing: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge procedures.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding, the judge imposes sentence. You can appeal to Falls Church Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Falls Church Criminal Penalties
In Falls Church, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries 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 (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (< $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) | Grand Larceny Felony | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, mandatory fine |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Falls Church Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how cases are built and challenged. We focus on case-specific defense strategies for Falls Church courts.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’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
Falls Church Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented criminal defense results in Falls Church: 5 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Falls Church, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Falls Church courts, accessible via Route 7 and I-66. We represent individuals in Falls Church and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Falls Church, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Falls Church 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 petit larceny.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Falls Church, Virginia?
Yes, 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 Falls Church Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Falls Church, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Falls Church General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Falls Church?
Falls Church General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Falls Church Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page.
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
- Falls Church DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile — learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated from Virginia court records and statutes. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.