In Arlington 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 21 documented results in Arlington County. A Gun Crime Lawyer Arlington County can help protect your rights. Contact us 24/7.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington 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. In Arlington County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all criminal cases. The law covers offenses from petit larceny under § 18.2-96 to assault and battery under § 18.2-57. A Gun Crime Lawyer Arlington County understands how these statutes apply to firearms-related charges. The classification of each offense determines the potential penalties you face.
For official legal references, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Your case typically proceeds from arraignment to trial within 4-8 weeks for misdemeanors.
- Appear for your initial arraignment at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400.
- Request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney within 10 days.
- File any pre-trial motions at least 7 days before trial.
- Attend all pre-trial conferences as scheduled by the court.
- Present your defense at trial or negotiate a plea agreement.
- File an appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days if convicted.
In Arlington County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, with specific classifications determining the maximum sentence.
| 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 |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
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 has handled 4,739+ cases firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds cases. A Gun Crime Lawyer Arlington County from our team brings this experience to your defense. Our favorable outcome rate exceeds 93% firm-wide.
In Arlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Results include: Destruction of Property with Intent under § 18.2-137 — Nolle Prosequi; Littering under § 33.1-346 — Dismissed; Fare Evasion under § 14.2-81 — Nolle Prosequi.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County Courthouse, accessible via major highways. We serve clients throughout Arlington County and nearby communities including Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Arlington County? Our team is ready to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
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: 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 Arlington County General District Court.
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 ~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.
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. See also our Alexandria Criminal Defense Lawyer page. Related services in Arlington County include DUI/DWI Lawyer Arlington County and Reckless Driving Lawyer Arlington County.
Learn more about our team: Kristen Fisher. Visit our Arlington location page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.