Criminal Defense Lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Falls Church
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. The Falls Church General District Court hears misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
Last verified: March 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). Information about the Falls Church General District Court, including location and hours, is available on the Virginia Courts official website.
Falls Church Court Process for Criminal Cases
Falls Church General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Falls Church prosecutes cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential plea agreements with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will proceed to a bench trial or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence, which may include jail, fines, or probation.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a conviction to the Falls Church Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Falls Church
In Falls Church, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, criminal record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Falls Church Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on providing full representation for criminal cases in Falls Church. Our approach is case-specific, built on direct legal experience.
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 Falls Church
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented criminal defense results in Falls Church: 5 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended, resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Falls Church
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Falls Church courts on 300 Park Avenue, accessible via Route 7 and I-66. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Falls Church City Hall and the West Falls Church Metro.
We serve the Falls Church area and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Falls Church, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Falls Church 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. Common charges include assault and petit larceny.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Falls Church, 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 Falls Church Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Falls Church, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Falls Church General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Falls Church?
Falls Church General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Falls Church Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Falls Church, we also handle DUI defense and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.