In Arlington County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended. An Insider Trading lawyer Arlington County can help you understand your options.
Criminal Law in Arlington County, Virginia
Virginia criminal law is codified under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Arlington County, the Arlington County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony trials proceed to the Arlington County Circuit Court. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes all criminal cases. A securities insider trading defense lawyer Arlington County can provide guidance on complex financial charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia General Assembly
- Arlington County General District Court — Official Court Website
Insider Procedural Edge for Arlington County Criminal Cases
In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors routinely offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion results in dismissal. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time. An illegal stock trading lawyer Arlington County can assist with white-collar cases.
- Step 1: Arrest or summons issued by Arlington County police.
- Step 2: Initial appearance before Arlington County General District Court magistrate for bond setting.
- Step 3: Arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Step 4: Discovery phase where evidence is exchanged.
- Step 5: Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations.
- Step 6: Trial or plea hearing before the judge.
In Arlington County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has achieved firm-wide 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Arlington County court system operates.
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 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
- Domestic Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57.2) — Nolle Prosequi — Arlington County J&DR Court
- Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57.2) — Deferred disposition on not guilty plea — Arlington County J&DR Court
- Assault (§ 18.2-57) — Dismissed — Arlington County General District Court
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington Location
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County courts at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. We serve clients throughout 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. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Arlington County
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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?
Yes. 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 approximately 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?
Yes. 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. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.