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 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Arlington location serves Alexandria clients by appointment only.
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, the most serious misdemeanor category, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). Felonies are classified from Class 1 (most severe) to Class 6, with penalties ranging from life imprisonment to one year.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Alexandria charges occur at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Alexandria Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in Alexandria General District Court, are formally advised of charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial & Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) | Felony (Class 6/5/4) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Restitution; felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| First Offense Marijuana Possession | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | May qualify for first-offender dismissal |
*Penalties depend on value and circumstances. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your defense. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a case. We focus on Alexandria courts and their specific procedures.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District Court and Alexandria Circuit Court.
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, accessible via major highways. We serve clients in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Contact a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 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 battery and petit larceny under $1,000. Cases are heard at Alexandria General District Court.
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?
Yes. Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent record. An attorney protects your rights, negotiates with prosecutors, and represents you in Alexandria General District Court.
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
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Arlington County. If you are facing related charges, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Kristen 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.