Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Fauquier County criminal charges are serious matters prosecuted at Fauquier County General District Court under Va. Code Title 18.2, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Fauquier County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a case-specific approach to your defense.
Virginia Criminal Law in Fauquier County
Virginia criminal law defines offenses in Title 18.2 of the state code. In Fauquier County, these cases are heard at the Fauquier County General District Court located at 6 Court Street, Warrenton. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes these cases, which range from misdemeanors to felonies with varying penalties.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). For Fauquier County court information, procedures, and forms, access the Fauquier County General District Court official website.
Fauquier County Criminal Court Process
Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Fauquier County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest or summons initiates the criminal case in Fauquier County.
- Initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial negotiations and motions phase with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court for misdemeanors or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- For felony charges, possible transfer to Fauquier County Circuit Court for jury trial.
Fauquier County Criminal Penalties
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanors up to 6 months and $1,000; Class 5 felonies 1-10 years; Class 6 felonies 1-5 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Driving on Suspended License | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Our Criminal Defense Experience in Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys bring over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense cases in Fauquier County. With 1 documented result in this jurisdiction showing a 100% favorable outcome rate, we provide full representation focused on protecting your rights and future.
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 Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Fauquier County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. This locality-specific experience demonstrates our understanding of Fauquier County General District Court procedures and Commonwealth’s Attorney negotiation approaches.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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 for a criminal defense lawyer near Fauquier County General District Court.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — 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. 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 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) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
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. Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information about criminal defense throughout Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. For criminal defense in nearby jurisdictions, see our pages for Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer and Prince William County criminal defense lawyer. In Fauquier County, we also handle DUI/DWI defense and family law matters. 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.