Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia
Arlington County criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry serious penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines, while felonies can bring 1-10 years imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand Arlington County General District Court procedures.
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law covers offenses from misdemeanors to felonies defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common Arlington County charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended license (§ 46.2-301). Each classification carries specific penalties and court procedures.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Arlington County court information is available at the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County Criminal Court Process
Arlington County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes cases, while Arlington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals.
- Initial appearance before magistrate for bond determination
- Arraignment where charges are formally read and plea entered
- Pre-trial conferences to discuss potential resolutions
- Trial preparation including evidence review and witness interviews
- Court proceedings at Arlington County General District Court
- Sentencing or case resolution documentation
Criminal Penalties in Arlington County
In Arlington County, criminal offenses carry varying penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines, Class 2 misdemeanors up to 6 months and $1,000, while felonies range from 1-10 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective orders possible |
| Petit Larceny | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record permanent |
| Driving Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points assessment |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience with documented results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating legislative influence.
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 Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 cases dismissed or not guilty, 10 charges reduced or amended. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these Arlington County cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for similar outcomes.
Local Representation
Our Arlington location serves clients at Arlington County courts (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). Criminal defense lawyer near Arlington County courthouse serving Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 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), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Arlington 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 Arlington County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Arlington County, Virginia?
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Arlington County 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.
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.
Related Legal Services
For Virginia criminal defense overview, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. For criminal defense in nearby Alexandria, visit our Alexandria criminal defense lawyer page. In Arlington County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background.
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.