Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11) to felonies carrying years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide and provides experienced defense at Alexandria General District Court. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand local procedures.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies crimes into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are heard in Alexandria General District Court, while felonies proceed through preliminary hearings there before trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court information, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Alexandria Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials and hears appeals from GDC.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You formally hear charges and enter a plea at 520 King Street.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence and may file motions to suppress.
- Trial or Negotiation: Bench trial in GDC or plea negotiation occurs.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You have 10 days to appeal to Circuit Court.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500, Class 6 felonies 1-5 years, with higher fines for more serious crimes.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to Alexandria cases. Our team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who provides unique insight into police procedures and investigations.
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 Alexandria
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
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). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes
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. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes
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. 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 Alexandria, Virginia?
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. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes Contact SRIS 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. Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Arlington County. In Alexandria, we handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
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.