In Madison County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 documented case results in Madison County. An Arson Lawyer Madison County provides targeted defense for fire-related charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia law defines criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 6 felony carries 1 to 5 years in prison. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Madison County prosecutes all criminal cases. An arson charge defense lawyer Madison County understands how these statutes apply to fire-related allegations. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, founded the firm in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your case.
For official legal references, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Madison County General District Court website.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before a magistrate who sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea at Madison County General District Court, 1 Main Street, Madison, VA 22727.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, including fire investigation reports and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. Felony cases proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the court imposes penalties. Expungement may be available for dismissals under § 19.2-392.2.
In Madison County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Criminal record, employment barriers |
| Class 2 Misdemeanor | Class 2 Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 | Possible suspension | Criminal record |
| Class 5 Felony | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Revocation | Felony record, voting rights loss |
| Class 6 Felony | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | Revocation | Felony record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results across all practice areas. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand how the Commonwealth builds cases. A fire-related criminal charge lawyer Madison County from our team knows the local court procedures and prosecutor practices. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating his deep understanding of Virginia law.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 total documented case results across all practice areas in Madison County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, we have 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is accessible from Madison County courts via Route 29 and Route 231. We serve clients throughout Madison and surrounding communities.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Madison County? Our team handles cases at Madison County General District Court and Circuit Court.
Neighborhoods served: Madison.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Madison County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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. Cases are heard at Madison County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Madison County, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. The petition is filed in Madison County Circuit Court. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
How does bail work in Madison County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Madison County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Madison County, Virginia?
Yes. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. An experienced lawyer can negotiate first-offender programs or seek dismissal.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Madison County?
Madison County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Madison County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. See also our Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer and Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer pages. For related practice areas in Madison County, see DUI Lawyer Madison County and Reckless Driving Lawyer Madison County.
Learn more about our team: Kristen Fisher — Former Prosecutor.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.