Criminal Defense Lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law covers offenses from misdemeanors to felonies, defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes with jail up to 12 months, while felonies can result in prison sentences of one year or more.
Last verified: March 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings prosecutorial insight to defense strategy.
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Prince William County Criminal Court Process
Prince William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince William County prosecutes cases at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230 in Manassas.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You appear before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Prince William County General District Court.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Either proceed to trial or negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal to Prince William County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Prince William County Criminal Penalties
In Prince William County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, firearm restrictions |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, employment consequences |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for repeat offenses |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Possible first offender program |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Bond amount is set by magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman charging approximately 10%.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense in Prince William County. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how cases are built from both sides.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep understanding of Virginia law.
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
Prince William County Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 141 documented criminal defense results in Prince William County: 118 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 19 charges reduced or amended, and 1 other favorable outcome, representing a 98% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for similar outcomes.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Prince William County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Prince William County courts. We represent individuals throughout Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
Criminal defense lawyer near Prince William County General District Court. 24/7 phone consultations available at (888) 437-7747. Meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince William 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, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William 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 Prince William County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Prince William County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond typically requires a bail bondsman charging approximately 10% for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince William County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Prince William County 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 Prince William County?
Prince William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince William 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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page
- Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer – Nearby locality
- Prince William County DUI Lawyer – Related practice area
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile – Of Counsel attorney
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change – contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.