In Madison County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 documented case results in Madison County. A Child Abuse Lawyer Madison County can help you understand your options.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses)
Virginia criminal law is primarily codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This body of law defines offenses ranging from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felonies (1-5 years imprisonment). The statute covers assault, larceny, drug offenses, and many other charges. A Child Abuse Lawyer Madison County understands these statutes and how they apply in local courts. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings unique insight to criminal defense cases.
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) from the Virginia General Assembly. For court procedures and rules, visit the Madison County General District Court website.
Madison County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond.
- Arraignment in General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Discovery phase where the prosecution shares evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- If convicted, sentencing or appeal to Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Madison County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending on the classification of the charge.
| 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 | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | 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 documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legal experience. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Additionally, Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, and Matthew Greene, with 30+ years of experience, contribute to the firm’s criminal defense practice.
In Madison County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Madison County courts (1 Main Street). The office is accessible via Route 29 and Route 231.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Madison? We serve the Madison community and surrounding areas.
Neighborhoods served: Madison.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Madison County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 Madison County General District Court (1 Main Street, Madison, VA 22727).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Madison 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 Madison County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Madison County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Madison County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Madison County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Madison County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Madison County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Madison County General District Court (1 Main Street, Madison, VA 22727). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Madison County?
Madison County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Madison 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 pages: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Madison County DUI Lawyer
Attorney profile: Kristen Fisher
Location: Fairfax Office
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.