Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from misdemeanors like assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57 to felonies like grand larceny, carrying penalties up to 12 months in jail or 10 years in prison. 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.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries 1 to 10 years in prison (Va. Code § 18.2-95). The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides defense in these matters.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia statute.
- Alexandria General District Court website — court information and procedures.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings occur at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street). Felony jury trials and appeals happen at Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear in Alexandria General District Court to hear the formal charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria for reduced charges or alternative dispositions.
- Trial or Hearing: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal or Circuit Court Trial: You can appeal a GDC conviction or, for felonies, exercise your right to a jury trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Disposition: The court imposes sentence or dismisses the case upon successful completion of a program.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while 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 (< $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into case construction from both sides. We maintain a documented 93%+ favorable outcome rate across our practice.
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
Documented Case Results
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. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation in Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We are a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria and the Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne communities. 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. 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 is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 to $445+.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. A lawyer protects your rights and can seek dismissal or reduction.
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 Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page.
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arlington County — nearby locality.
- DUI/DWI Lawyer in Alexandria — related practice area.
- Attorney Bryan Block Profile
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.