Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Fairfax County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defining offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. Fairfax County General District Court handles initial hearings and misdemeanor trials, while the Fairfax County Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, bringing over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). Court information, forms, and procedures for Fairfax County are available at 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 Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes cases. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You appear before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Fairfax County General District Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case proceeds to trial or reaches a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You may appeal a conviction to the Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Criminal Penalties in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor brings up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years 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 | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, employment barriers |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
Results may vary. Prior outcomes do not aim for future results.
Bond amount is set by the magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond is typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%). Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Fairfax County Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal defense in Fairfax County. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of the courtroom. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating our deep engagement with Virginia law.
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: 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 143 charges reduced or amended, with 5 other favorable outcomes — a 97% favorable outcome rate for our Fairfax County clients.
Results may vary. Prior outcomes do not aim for future results.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts at 4110 Chain Bridge Road. We represent individuals throughout 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.
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 brings up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on suspended. Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fairfax County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fairfax County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court 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 jail time.
Related Legal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in neighboring jurisdictions including Fairfax City and Falls Church. If you need assistance with related matters, consider our Fairfax County DUI lawyer or Fairfax County family law attorney.
Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher or visit our Fairfax office location page.
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.