In Fairfax County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County, including 336 dismissals. A Securities Fraud lawyer Fairfax can help you understand your options.
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax Co. County, Virginia
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia law defines criminal offenses primarily under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). An experienced Securities Fraud lawyer Fairfax can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
For authoritative information on Virginia criminal law, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Insider Knowledge: Fairfax County Criminal Procedure
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases. First offender programs are available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 — successful completion results in dismissal.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment in General District Court within 72 hours of arrest.
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court (bench trial) or Circuit Court (jury trial).
- Sentencing or appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days of conviction.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to significant jail time, depending on the classification.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights |
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 to every case. The firm has achieved firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating his deep understanding of Virginia law.
Our team also includes Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with over a decade of experience, and Matthew Greene, a 30+ year veteran formerly death penalty certified. An investment fraud defense lawyer Fairfax can provide specialized representation for complex financial cases.
Proven Results in Fairfax County Criminal Cases
In Fairfax County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, and 5 other favorable — a 97% favorable outcome rate. Notable results include four counts of credit card fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-192) resolved with a 2-year sentence fully suspended and 2 years active probation with no fine, and petit larceny 3rd offense (Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-96) resulting in 12 months jail with 8 months suspended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax Location is just minutes from the Fairfax County courts at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve clients throughout Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. If you are searching for a “criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax,” we are here to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, 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 Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court. Public defender eligibility is based on income.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fairfax County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Fairfax City Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Falls Church Criminal Defense Lawyer
- Fairfax County DUI Lawyer
- Fairfax County Family Law Lawyer
- Kristen Fisher — Former Prosecutor
- Fairfax Office Location
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.