Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties including up to 12 months jail for Class 1 misdemeanors; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our former prosecutor attorneys provide full representation at Alexandria General District Court.
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 (Va. Code § 19.2-295.1). A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years imprisonment.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) – official Virginia General Assembly statute
- Alexandria General District Court website – court procedures and information
Alexandria Criminal Court Process
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings at 520 King Street. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes cases. You 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 Alexandria.
- Initial appearance at Alexandria General District Court for bond determination.
- Preliminary hearing for felonies or arraignment for misdemeanors.
- Discovery phase where defense reviews prosecution evidence.
- Pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial in General District Court or jury trial in Circuit Court.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to imprisonment: Class 1 misdemeanor up to 12 months jail/$2,500 fine; Class 5 felony 1-10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Substance abuse assessment |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
SRIS Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has 120+ years of combined attorney experience. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal cases.
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
Alexandria Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We represent clients throughout Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Contact us for a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria.
24/7 phone consultations – (888) 437-7747 – meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria 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).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, 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 Alexandria Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Alexandria. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. 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 Alexandria?
Alexandria General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria 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 – state hub page
- Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer – nearby locality
- Alexandria DUI Lawyer – related practice area
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile – former prosecutor
- Arlington Law Office Location – serving Alexandria
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change – contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.