In Orange County, Virginia, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in Orange County, with 3 dismissals and 1 reduction. Former prosecutors on staff. 24/7 consultations by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Orange County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Orange County prosecutes all criminal cases in this jurisdiction.
For the official Virginia criminal code, visit the Virginia General Assembly’s legislative information system. For court procedures and forms, see the Orange County General District Court website.
In Orange County General District Court, prosecutors routinely offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion results in dismissal of the charge. This option is often available for first-time misdemeanor offenses.
- Step 1: Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or when you learn of charges.
- Step 2: Your attorney will review the police report and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Step 3: Your lawyer will file a notice of representation with Orange County General District Court.
- Step 4: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea or first-offender program.
- Step 5: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to trial before a judge or jury.
- Step 6: Your lawyer will argue for dismissal, acquittal, or the most favorable sentence possible.
In Orange County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on the classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record, possible vehicle impoundment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled more than 4,739 cases firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute in Virginia. The firm maintains a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide.
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
Additionally, Mr. Sris, founder and managing attorney, oversees all criminal defense matters. He is a former prosecutor with bar admissions in Virginia, Maryland, Washington D.C., New Jersey, and New York.
In Orange County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results: 3 dismissals/not guilty verdicts and 1 reduction/amendment. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Orange County courts, approximately 45 minutes from the courthouse at 110 N. Madison Road, accessible via Route 15, Route 20, Route 33, and Route 231.
Searching for a criminal defense lawyer near Orange County? We serve the communities of Orange and Gordonsville.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Orange County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Orange County, Virginia?
Yes, Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
How does bail work in Orange County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Orange County, Virginia?
Yes, even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can negotiate first-offender programs or dismissals.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Orange County?
Orange County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. See also our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer and Prince William County criminal defense lawyer pages. For related services in Orange County, see our DUI lawyer in Orange County and family law lawyer in Orange County pages.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of February 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.