Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia
In Fairfax County, criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fairfax County General District Court. A Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, with a 97% favorable outcome rate.
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. It defines offenses from misdemeanors like assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more). The classification determines the potential penalties and the court where your case will be heard.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court-specific information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Fairfax County Criminal Court Process
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District 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 legal grounds.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential plea agreement or diversion program.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, a preliminary hearing followed by a potential jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Criminal Penalties in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification under Virginia law.
| 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 (unless DUI-related) | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 (Class 5 discretionary) | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are the maximum under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the court’s discretion.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman (who charges approximately 10%), is more common for felonies.
Our Experience in Fairfax County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a deep understanding of the procedures and personnel in Fairfax County General District Court and Circuit Court. Our approach is case-specific, focusing on the details that can lead to dismissals, reductions, or favorable plea agreements.
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 Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County. This includes 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 143 charges reduced or amended to lesser offenses, representing a 97% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County for residents of Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax 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 a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi (when the prosecutor drops the charge) under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. A secured bond, typically requiring a bail bondsman who charges about 10%, is more common for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to the General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. Having an attorney who knows the Fairfax County General District Court procedures is critical for protecting your rights and exploring all options for dismissal or reduction.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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 potential jail time.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas including Fairfax City and Falls Church. If you are facing related charges, explore our Fairfax County DUI/DWI lawyer or Fairfax County reckless driving lawyer pages. 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.