Criminal Defense Lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Prince William County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Prince William County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Prince William County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, while felonies proceed to Prince William County Circuit Court for jury trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, see the Prince William County General District Court website.
Prince William County Court Process
Prince William County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince William County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince William County prosecutes these cases.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: Appear before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest. The magistrate sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment at General District Court: Formally hear charges. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all defense options.
- Review Discovery and File Motions: Analyze police reports and evidence. File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiate with Prosecutor or Prepare for Trial: Engage in plea negotiations. If no acceptable offer exists, prepare for trial.
- Trial or Disposition: Present your defense at trial or pursue deferred disposition for eligible first offenders.
Prince William County Criminal Penalties
In Prince William County, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor means up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Virginia Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal defense cases in Prince William County. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal proceedings.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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
Prince William County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 141 documented criminal defense results in Prince William County: 118 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 19 charges reduced or amended, and 1 other favorable outcome — a 98% favorable outcome rate for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Prince William County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Prince William County courts. We represent clients from Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan. Contact us for a criminal defense lawyer near Prince William County.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince William 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 Prince William County General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William 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 Prince William County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Prince William County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Prince William County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince William County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Prince William County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Prince William 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 Prince William County?
Prince William County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince William 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.
Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal lawyer hub page. We also serve Fairfax County and Manassas City. For related legal needs in Prince William County, see our DUI defense and family law pages. Learn more about Bryan Block’s background and experience.
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 legal guidance.