Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law covers offenses from misdemeanors to felonies, defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while Class 5 felonies can result in 1-10 years imprisonment. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes these cases at the Fauquier County General District Court located at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly statutes
Official Criminal Law Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal code, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) maintained by the Virginia General Assembly. Court procedures and schedules for Fauquier County are available at the Fauquier County General District Court website.
Fauquier County Criminal Court Process
Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes cases at 6 Court Street in Warrenton. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion for eligible defendants.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond conditions
- Arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court where charges are formally read
- Pre-trial conferences and discovery exchange with the Commonwealth’s Attorney
- Motion hearings to challenge evidence or procedural issues
- Trial before a judge in General District Court or jury trial in Circuit Court
- Sentencing or participation in first offender diversion programs
Fauquier County Criminal Penalties
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines under Va. Code § 19.2-295.1.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective orders, employment restrictions |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Discretionary | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience, with former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper providing unique insight into criminal case construction and defense strategies. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC.
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
Fauquier County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Fauquier County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys have achieved reduced charges and amended dispositions for clients facing misdemeanor and felony allegations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for similar outcomes.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We represent clients throughout Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier County 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 Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier County, 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier County 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 full Virginia criminal defense information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. If you need representation in nearby jurisdictions, consider our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer or Prince William County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Fauquier County, explore our Fauquier County DUI/DWI lawyer or Fauquier County family law lawyer services. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background and experience.
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.