Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code § 18.2-11 to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide experience with 4,739+ documented case results. Our Alexandria location serves clients by appointment only, providing 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felonies are classified from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides full representation in Alexandria.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the Virginia Legislative Information System. For Alexandria court procedures, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Alexandria charges occur at the Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street. Felony jury trials and appeals are handled by the Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may present a plea offer. Your attorney will advise you on its merits versus trial risks.
- Trial or Disposition: The case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or, if you demand a jury, to Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence within the statutory range, considering guidelines and arguments.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a General District Court conviction to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Alexandria Criminal Charges
In Alexandria, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We provide global advocacy with local precision for Alexandria clients.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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 Alexandria and Beyond
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved firm-wide results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, totaling 4,739+ documented case outcomes with a 93%+ favorable rate. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Alexandria courts at 520 King Street, serving clients in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria ready to assist. Contact us for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and petit larceny.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Alexandria Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman, is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at Alexandria General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Legal representation is critical for protecting your rights.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Arlington County. In Alexandria, consider our services for DUI/DWI defense or family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen M. Fisher.
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.