Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia
In Fairfax County, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11) to felonies carrying years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended. Spring break often brings public intoxication, underage drinking, and possession arrests in Fairfax County.
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. The Commonwealth classifies offenses by severity: misdemeanors (Classes 1-4) and felonies (Classes 1-6). Each classification carries specific maximum penalties defined by statute.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official resources: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly) and the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases.
- Arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate at the Adult Detention Center.
- First appearance/arraignment at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road).
- For misdemeanors: trial scheduled within 4-8 weeks. For felonies: preliminary hearing within 21-60 days.
- If bound over to Circuit Court, arraignment and trial scheduling occur there.
- Pre-trial motions, discovery exchange, and potential plea negotiations.
- Trial or disposition in the appropriate court.
In Fairfax County, criminal offenses carry penalties from 6 months to 10+ years incarceration, fines up to $100,000, and permanent criminal records.
| 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 (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, employment issues |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, immigration consequences |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) (§ 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Substance abuse assessment |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal defense in Fairfax County. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct knowledge of local court procedures.
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 to lesser offenses, and 5 other favorable resolutions—a 97% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts (4110 Chain Bridge Road). As a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County, we represent clients 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.
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?
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.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Fairfax City and Falls Church. Related practice areas in Fairfax County: DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving defense. 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.