Facing criminal charges 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. An Arson Lawyer Fairfax County can help protect your future. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Statutory Definition of Criminal Offenses in Fairfax County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes all criminal cases at the Fairfax County General District Court, located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation for those facing criminal charges.
External Citation Links
Review the official Virginia statutes governing criminal offenses: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly. For court procedures and rules, visit the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Insider Procedural Edge: What You Need to Know About Fairfax County Courts
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes aggressively. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Step 1: Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately after arrest or citation.
- Step 2: Gather all court documents, including the summons or arrest warrant.
- Step 3: Appear at your arraignment at Fairfax County General District Court.
- Step 4: Discuss plea options or trial strategy with your attorney.
- Step 5: Attend all court hearings; failure to appear can result in a bench warrant.
- Step 6: Complete any court-ordered programs or community service.
Penalty Table for Criminal Offenses in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to significant jail time, depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and 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 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
E-E-A-T Authority: 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. The firm has achieved firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legal authority in Virginia courts. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand courtroom strategy from every angle.
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
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 results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed or not guilty, 143 reduced or amended, and 5 other favorable outcomes — a 97% favorable outcome rate. Examples include: a dangerous dog biting case resulting in 179 days jail with 179 suspended, and an obtaining money by false pretenses felony reduced to a misdemeanor with 180 days, 176 suspended.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Our Fairfax location is located near the Fairfax County courts, accessible via major highways. We serve clients throughout Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. Search for a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax or an arson charge defense lawyer Fairfax County to get the representation you need.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Fairfax County
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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax 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 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. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court. Public defender eligibility is based on income.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. 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. An experienced lawyer can identify defenses and negotiate for reduced charges or dismissal.
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.
If you are looking for a fire-related criminal charge lawyer Fairfax County, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. today. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how to build a strong defense against serious criminal allegations.
Contact us for a consultation by appointment. Call toll-free at (888) 437-7747 or our local Fairfax office at (703) 636-5417. Phones are answered 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.