Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code § 18.2-11 to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in Alexandria General District Court, with firm-wide experience across 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor insight helps protect your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. A Class 1 misdemeanor, like simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony, such as grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more under Va. Code § 18.2-95, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code (law.lis.virginia.gov). For Alexandria court information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Alexandria General District Court website (vacourts.gov).
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Alexandria Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials and hears appeals from GDC decisions.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond within 24 hours of arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in Alexandria GDC to hear formal charges and enter a plea. Pleading not guilty preserves all rights.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains police reports and evidence. Motions to suppress may be filed if rights were violated.
- Negotiations: Your lawyer discusses the case with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, seeking reductions or alternative resolutions.
- Trial or Disposition: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to years in prison for felonies, with specific classifications defined by Virginia law.
| 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 possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Our Alexandria Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, we have achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into case construction and defense strategy.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Case Results in Alexandria and Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in Alexandria and surrounding jurisdictions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts. We represent individuals throughout Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. As a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are 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 Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria 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 Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, 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 Alexandria Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Alexandria. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Alexandria?
Alexandria General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria 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, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Arlington County. In Alexandria, we handle related matters including DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Kristen M. Fisher.
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.