In Alexandria, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. You need a strong defense against the Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Alexandria.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia law defines criminal offenses primarily under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and § 19.2-295.1 (sentencing). A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry 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 Counterfeiting of Obligations or Securities of the US lawyer Alexandria understands these statutes intimately.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Court Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 — Crimes and Offenses (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Alexandria General District Court — Official Website
Insider Procedural Edge: What You Need to Know About Alexandria Courts
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or citation.
- Gather all court documents, including your summons or arrest warrant.
- Attend your first court appearance at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor).
- Review discovery materials with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable resolution or prepare for trial.
In Alexandria, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” We have former prosecutors on staff who understand how the Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases.
Kristen Fisher — Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney | Bar: MD, VA | Joined firm 2010
Kristen Fisher brings her experience as a former prosecutor to every criminal defense case. She understands the strategies prosecutors use and how to counter them effectively.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, founder and former prosecutor, who personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3 (equitable distribution statute) and has been practicing since 1997.
Proven Case Results in Alexandria
SRIS actively practices in Alexandria. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. In Alexandria General District Court, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) on assault charges under Va. Code § 18.2-57.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Visit Our Location Serving Alexandria
Our Arlington Location serves clients at Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We are accessible via major highways. We serve Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Find a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria who understands local court procedures.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Alexandria
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria 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 Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, 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 Alexandria Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Alexandria. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Alexandria?
Alexandria General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria 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 Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Alexandria DUI Lawyer
- Alexandria Family Law Lawyer
- Kristen Fisher — Attorney Profile
- Our Arlington Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.