Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia
Criminal Law in Fairfax County
Virginia criminal law categorizes offenses by severity. Misdemeanors include assault, petit larceny, and drug possession. Felonies include grand larceny, robbery, and serious drug offenses. Each classification carries specific penalties defined in the Virginia Code.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Fairfax County court information, see the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Court Process
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: Appear at Fairfax County General District Court for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve your rights.
- Discovery review: Your attorney obtains police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Motion filing: File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Negotiation: Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, diversion programs, or favorable plea agreements when appropriate.
- Trial preparation: Prepare for trial by reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and developing a defense strategy.
- Court appearance: Present your defense at trial in Fairfax County General District Court or request a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Criminal Penalties in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail/$2,500 and felonies 1-10 years or more.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, employment issues |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, difficulty finding employment |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program available |
| 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, loss of voting rights |
| DUI (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Mandatory $250-$2,500 | 1-year license suspension | Ignition interlock, alcohol education |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and legal arguments presented.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement professionals who understand how cases are built from both sides.
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
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, with 5 other favorable outcomes—achieving a 97% favorable outcome rate for clients facing criminal charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fairfax County courts. We represent clients throughout 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
(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 Services
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fairfax County DUI Lawyer | Fairfax County Family Lawyer | Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.