Assault Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
An assault charge in Arlington County is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Assault and Battery Law
Virginia defines assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57. Assault is an attempt or offer to do bodily harm, while battery is the actual unlawful touching. In Arlington County, this is almost always charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you acted intentionally, not accidentally. Defenses often involve self-defense, defense of others, lack of intent, or mistaken identity. A strong defense requires immediate action by an assault and battery defense lawyer Arlington County.
Official Legal Resources
For the official statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-57 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Court Process for Assault Charges
Your case begins at Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). The court handles all misdemeanor assault trials. Prosecutors there routinely seek convictions that can impact employment and housing. An assault charge dismissed lawyer Arlington County looks for procedural weaknesses and evidence issues from the start.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain all police reports and witness statements.
- We file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss if rights were violated.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial, focusing on witness examination and presenting your defense.
- If convicted in GDC, file an appeal for a new trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Assault in Arlington County
In Arlington County, a simple assault conviction carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record, possible protective order |
| Assault on Family/Household Member | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory anger management, no-contact order |
| Assault & Battery of Law Enforcement | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, severe employment consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Assault Defense
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 each case. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges in Northern Virginia.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, and Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper whose 15 years of law enforcement experience provide a unique advantage in analyzing police reports and procedures.
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Our firm has 21 documented case results in Arlington County across various charges, with an 100% favorable outcome rate. This includes cases where charges like “Destruction of Property” and “Fare Evasion” were dismissed or not prosecuted.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Arlington County Assault Lawyer
Our Arlington location serves clients at Arlington County courts. We represent individuals in Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Assault Defense FAQs for Arlington County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Arlington County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Arlington County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57). Cases are heard at Arlington County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Arlington County, Virginia?
It depends. 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 Arlington County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for an assault charge in Arlington County?
Yes. Assault charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Arlington County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact an assault lawyer Arlington County for a consultation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Arlington County?
Arlington County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Arlington 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.
How does bail work for an assault charge in Arlington County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Arlington County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Arlington County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.