Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Fairfax 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 501 documented results in Fairfax County. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at Fairfax County General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
A criminal charge in Fairfax County is a serious matter prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. You have the right to an attorney and the right to a jury trial for any offense carrying potential jail time.
What Is a Criminal Charge in Fairfax County?
Virginia law defines crimes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A criminal charge in Fairfax County is a formal accusation by the Commonwealth’s Attorney that you violated a state law. Charges range from misdemeanors (less serious) to felonies (more serious). All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings occur at the Fairfax County General District Court located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia statute.
- Fairfax County General District Court Website — Official court information.
Fairfax County Court Process
The Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials. The Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear in Fairfax County General District Court, enter a plea, and receive a trial date.
- Discovery: Your attorney requests all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Trial or Negotiation: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a negotiated resolution.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You may appeal to Fairfax County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Possible first offender program |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our team includes a former Virginia State Trooper and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, providing unique insight into prosecution strategies. We focus on the Fairfax County courts and the communities we serve.
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
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.
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County: 336 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 143 charges reduced or amended, and 5 other favorable outcomes — a 97% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Statewide hub.
- Fairfax City Criminal Defense Lawyer — Nearby locality.
- Fairfax County DUI Lawyer — Related practice area.
- Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile — Former prosecutor.
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.