Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11) to felonies carrying years in prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide experience with 4,739+ documented case results. Our Arlington location serves Alexandria clients facing prosecution at Alexandria General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Alexandria, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at Alexandria General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary felony hearings, while felony trials proceed to Alexandria Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court procedures and forms, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Alexandria General District Court, where you enter a plea. The court then sets a trial date, typically within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Initial Appearance: Appear at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor) for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all rights.
- Request Discovery: File a formal request for all evidence the Commonwealth’s Attorney intends to use against you, including police reports and witness statements.
- Evaluate Defense Options: Review evidence with your attorney to identify procedural weaknesses, constitutional violations, or grounds for suppression motions.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File appropriate motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal deficiencies before your trial date.
- Trial or Negotiation: Proceed to bench trial in General District Court or negotiate a favorable plea agreement based on the strength of your defense.
- Appeal if Necessary: If convicted in GDC, exercise your right to appeal to Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial before a jury.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal penalties depend on the offense classification: Class 1 misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while felonies can result in years of imprisonment.
| 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, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, theft conviction record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, prison time |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, evidence, and legal representation.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal defense in Alexandria. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Our Alexandria defense team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who provides unique insight into police procedures and investigation tactics. This experience allows us to challenge evidence effectively and identify procedural weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
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 Northern Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved favorable outcomes in Alexandria criminal cases, including dismissals, reduced charges, and not guilty verdicts. Firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., we have documented 4,739+ case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Serving Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location represents clients at Alexandria courts. We serve Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne communities. As a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
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. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes 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. Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For Virginia criminal defense overview, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you’re facing charges in nearby Arlington, consult our Arlington County criminal defense lawyer. For related legal needs in Alexandria, see our Alexandria DUI/DWI lawyer or Alexandria family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background.
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.