Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Fairfax County
Virginia criminal law categorizes offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors are heard in General District Court, while felonies proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our background provides a distinct advantage in analyzing police reports and prosecution strategies.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). The Fairfax County General District Court website provides local forms, rules, and contact information.
Fairfax County Court Process
Your case will begin at the Fairfax County General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential resolutions with the prosecutor, which may include reduced charges or diversion programs.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or, for felonies, a jury trial in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: After a finding, the judge imposes sentence. You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the Circuit Court for a new trial.
Criminal Penalties in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| 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) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Community service possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | 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. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Fairfax County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing combined experience of over 120 years. We have achieved 4,739+ favorable case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
In Fairfax County, we have 501 documented criminal defense results: 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 143 charges reduced or amended, and 5 other favorable outcomes.
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. This includes 336 cases dismissed or resulting in not guilty verdicts, 143 charges reduced or amended to lesser offenses, and 5 other favorable resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County General District Court, accessible via major local highways.
We serve the Fairfax County area and surrounding communities including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and Falls Church.
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: 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 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?
Criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Fairfax City and Falls Church. In Fairfax County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving charges.
Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher or visit our Fairfax office location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.