Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
In Fairfax County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 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 Fraud Lawyer Fairfax can help protect your rights and future.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly)
Criminal law in Virginia is governed by Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses ranging from misdemeanors to felonies, each carrying specific penalties. A Fraud Lawyer Fairfax understands how these laws apply to your case. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes criminal cases in Fairfax County. Your defense strategy depends on the specific charge, the evidence against you, and the court where your case is heard. Misdemeanor cases begin in the General District Court, while felony cases start with a preliminary hearing there before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
For more information on Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Court procedures are outlined on the Fairfax County General District Court website.
- Arraignment: Appear in Fairfax County GDC within 21-60 days of arrest. Enter your plea.
- Discovery: Your attorney requests all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Motion Practice: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges before trial.
- Plea Negotiation: Discuss plea options with the prosecutor before the trial date.
- Trial or Appeal: If no plea, proceed to trial in GDC or appeal to Circuit Court.
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison time. A white collar crime defense lawyer Fairfax can explain the specific penalties for your charge.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential restraining order |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
Our team also includes Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with over a decade of litigation experience, and Matthew Greene, who brings 30+ years of criminal defense experience including death penalty certification.
In Fairfax County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is near the Fairfax County courts at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, accessible via I-66 and Route 50.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County? We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
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. Class 2: 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 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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. 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.
Learn more about our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer services. For neighboring areas, see our Falls Church Criminal Defense Lawyer or Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer. Related services in Fairfax County include DUI/DWI Lawyer Fairfax and Divorce/Family Law Lawyer Fairfax.
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.