Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Fauquier County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while felonies can result in prison sentences of one year or more. The Fauquier County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Court information, including forms and procedures for Fauquier County, is available on the Fauquier County General District Court website.
Fauquier County Court Process
Your case begins with an arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court, where you enter a plea. The court then sets dates for pre-trial motions and trial. For felony charges, a preliminary hearing determines if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Attend your arraignment and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to review evidence.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or seek dismissal.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative dispositions.
- Prepare for trial if no acceptable agreement is reached.
- Consider appeal options if convicted at the General District Court level.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines, while felonies can result in years of imprisonment.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, prior record, and court discretion.
Our Experience in Fauquier County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience handling criminal cases across Virginia. We understand Fauquier County court procedures and work to protect your rights throughout the legal process.
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 Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Fauquier County: 1 reduced/amended charge resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We represent individuals throughout Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier 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), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier 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
For more information about criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer and Prince William County criminal defense lawyer. In Fauquier County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. 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.