Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Facing criminal charges in Fairfax County is a serious matter with potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 150+ documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County courts. Spring break in Fairfax County often leads to increased arrests for public intoxication, underage drinking, and drug possession — contact us if you or a family member has been charged.
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law defines crimes as acts or omissions prohibited by the Virginia Code and punishable by the state. Crimes are classified as felonies or misdemeanors based on potential penalties.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings prosecutor insight to your defense. We understand how Commonwealth’s Attorneys build cases in Fairfax County.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court & Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Resources
- Virginia Code (official Virginia General Assembly) – The complete statutory text of Virginia criminal laws.
- Fairfax County Courts website – Official site for court locations, hours, and procedures.
Fairfax County Criminal Court Process
Fairfax County handles misdemeanors in General District Court and felonies in Circuit Court. Procedures differ significantly between these courts.
- Arrest and Booking: You are processed at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. Request an attorney immediately.
- Arraignment: You appear in Fairfax General District Court (misdemeanors) or Circuit Court (felonies) to hear charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or compel discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Based on evidence, your lawyer negotiates a resolution or prepares for bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. Your attorney can argue for alternatives to incarceration or file an appeal.
Virginia Criminal Penalties
In Fairfax County, criminal penalties range from fines and probation for misdemeanors to years in prison for felonies, with additional consequences like loss of professional licenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible | Protective order, loss of firearm rights |
| Petit Larceny | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | No | Restitution, employment difficulties |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) | Class 5 Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-250) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Mandatory minimums possible, federal implications |
| DUI (2nd offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-270) | 1-12 months (mandatory min. 20 days) | $500-$2,500 | 3-year revocation | Ignition interlock, VASAP, increased insurance |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and defense strategy.
Our Criminal Defense Experience in Fairfax
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have 120+ years of combined legal experience handling criminal cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. We have achieved firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Our Fairfax criminal defense team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office builds cases. This insight informs our defense strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common criminal charge in Fairfax County?
Misdemeanor assault and drug possession are among the most common charges filed in Fairfax County General District Court, often stemming from domestic disputes or traffic stops.
How long does a criminal case take in Fairfax?
A misdemeanor case typically takes 6-12 months from arrest to resolution in Fairfax General District Court. Felony cases in Circuit Court often take 12-24 months due to grand jury and pre-trial procedures.
Can a criminal charge be dismissed in Fairfax County?
Yes. Charges may be dismissed if evidence is insufficient, rights were violated, or through pre-trial diversion programs. An attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or argue for nolle prosequi.
What happens at an arraignment in Fairfax?
At arraignment, the judge reads the charges, you enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest), and the court sets future dates for trial or motions. Having counsel present is critical.
Should I speak to police without a lawyer in Virginia?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions until your lawyer is present, as anything you say can be used against you.
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 150+ documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County courts. These include dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements across various charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location is 2 miles from the Fairfax County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve clients throughout Fairfax, Annandale, Springfield, Vienna, and surrounding Northern Virginia communities.
Criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County Courthouse. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
10513 Judicial Dr, Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Lawyer – Our state-wide criminal defense hub.
- Arlington Criminal Lawyer – Defense representation in neighboring Arlington County.
- Fairfax County DUI Lawyer – Specialized DUI defense in Fairfax.
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile – Learn more about your attorney.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.