Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria criminal charges carry serious penalties under Va. Code Title 18.2: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines, while felonies can bring years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced criminal defense representation in Alexandria General District Court and Alexandria Circuit Court. Our firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes demonstrate our approach to Alexandria cases.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with specific penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. Alexandria prosecutes these cases through the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office, with hearings at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor) for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, and Alexandria Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal code, review Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Alexandria court procedures and forms are available through the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Criminal Court Process
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from General District Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes cases in both courts.
- Arrest or summons initiates the criminal process in Alexandria.
- Initial appearance before a magistrate sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment in Alexandria General District Court where charges are formally read.
- Pre-trial negotiations and motions determine case direction.
- Trial in General District Court (misdemeanors) or preliminary hearing (felonies).
- Felony cases bound over to Alexandria Circuit Court for jury trial.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, criminal offenses carry varying penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines, Class 5 felonies 1-10 years, with assault and battery under § 18.2-57 as a Class 1 misdemeanor and grand larceny over $1,000 as a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Criminal record, possible protective orders |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Drug education, treatment |
| Driving Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Experience in Alexandria Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our Alexandria criminal defense team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement professionals who understand both sides of criminal cases.
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
Alexandria Case Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District Court and Alexandria Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We represent clients throughout Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Contact us for directions and appointment scheduling.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
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?
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?
Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. 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 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 Services
For Virginia criminal defense overview, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. For defense in nearby jurisdictions, see our Arlington criminal defense lawyer page. For related services in Alexandria, consider Alexandria DUI defense or Alexandria family law services.
Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background or visit our Arlington location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.