Criminal Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in King George County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The specific statute defines each crime and its elements.
Last verified: March 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and forms, visit the King George County General District Court website.
King George County Court Process
King George County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for King George County prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear in King George County General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The court determines if there is probable cause to send a felony case to Circuit Court.
- Trial or Plea: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in King George County Circuit Court, or you may negotiate a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in King George County
In King George County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the facts of your case, your criminal history, and the judge’s discretion.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony.
Our Experience in Virginia Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on case-specific defense strategies. Our firm’s tagline is “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
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 King George County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in King George County. Three of these cases were dismissed or resulted in not guilty verdicts, representing a 75% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near King George County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We are accessible via Route 3, Route 301, and Route 206. We represent clients in King George and Dahlgren.
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 King George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King George County 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 battery and petit larceny under $1,000. Cases are heard at King George County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King George 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 King George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in King George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King George County General District Court. Court-appointed attorney fees start at $120.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in King George County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at King George County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King George County?
King George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King George 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 Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. In King George County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.