Protective Order Violation Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A protective order violation in Arlington County is a serious criminal charge under Va. Code § 16.2-279.1, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of violating a protective order.
Virginia Law on Protective Order Violations
In Virginia, violating a protective order is a Class 1 misdemeanor, as defined in Va. Code § 16.2-279.1. The law prohibits any knowing violation of the terms of a protective order issued to prevent acts of violence, force, or threat. This includes family abuse protective orders, preliminary protective orders, and protective orders issued for stalking or sexual assault. The prosecution must prove you knowingly violated a specific term of the order. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record and can impact child custody, employment, and firearm rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 16.2-279.1 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Arlington County General District Court website.
Defending a PO Violation Charge in Arlington County
Arlington County prosecutors take allegations of violating a protective order seriously. Common allegations include unwanted contact, appearing at a prohibited location, or possessing a firearm. A strong defense often hinges on challenging whether the violation was “knowing.” Perhaps you were unaware the order was still active, or the alleged contact was incidental and not intentional. The protective order itself must be valid and properly served. Our team meticulously reviews the order’s terms, the service proof, and the circumstances of the alleged violation to build your defense.
- Secure immediate legal representation after being charged or contacted by police.
- Your attorney will obtain and review the protective order and police report.
- A defense strategy is developed, focusing on intent, knowledge, or order validity.
- Your lawyer will represent you at all hearings in Arlington County General District Court.
- Possible resolutions include dismissal, amendment to a lesser charge, or trial.
Potential Penalties for Violating a Protective Order
In Arlington County, a protective order violation carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, with mandatory minimum sentences for subsequent offenses.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| First Offense Violation | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible no-contact order |
| Second Offense Violation | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Mandatory minimum 60 days* | Up to $2,500 | Enhanced penalties, longer probation |
| Violation Involving Firearm | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, loss of firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*Subsequent offenses within 5 years carry mandatory jail time under Va. Code § 16.2-279.1.
Our Experience in Arlington County Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We have a documented presence in Arlington County courts and understand the local procedures and personnel. Our protective order violation lawyer Arlington County approach is direct and focused on achieving the best possible result for your situation.
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 for Protective Order Violation Charges
While specific results for protective order violations are not listed in our Arlington County dataset, our firm has a proven track record of achieving favorable outcomes in criminal cases. For example, in Arlington County General District Court, we have secured amendments of traffic charges like “Violation of Highway Sign” to non-moving “Defective Equipment” violations. This demonstrates our ability to negotiate effectively with local prosecutors to reduce charges and minimize consequences. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute.
Arlington County Protective Order Violation Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment only.
Serving: Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, Shirlington.
Our Arlington location is ready to assist clients facing a PO violation charge in Arlington County. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Protective Order Violation Charges in Arlington
What is the penalty for violating a protective order in Arlington County, Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The penalty for violating a protective order in Arlington County is up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 16.2-279.1. A second offense within five years carries a mandatory minimum 60-day jail sentence.
Can I go to jail for accidentally texting someone I have a protective order against?
It depends. The key element is whether you “knowingly” violated the order. An accidental, single text might be defensible, but intentional contact is a violation. A violating protective order defense lawyer Arlington County can argue lack of intent based on the specific circumstances.
What should I do if I am charged with a protective order violation?
Do not contact the protected party. Immediately exercise your right to remain silent and contact a PO violation charge lawyer Arlington County. An attorney can intervene early, communicate with the prosecutor, and begin building a defense focused on your rights and the specifics of the allegation.
Is a protective order violation a felony in Virginia?
No, typically it is a misdemeanor. However, violating a protective order while possessing a firearm is a Class 6 felony under Virginia law, punishable by 1-5 years in prison.
How can a lawyer help fight a protective order violation charge?
A protective order violation lawyer Arlington County can challenge whether the order was valid and properly served, argue you lacked knowledge of the violation, negotiate for dismissal or reduction of charges, and represent you at trial. Early legal help is crucial for the best outcome.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a protective order violation charge, you may also need information on criminal defense in Arlington County or domestic violence defense. For other localities, see our page for a protective order violation lawyer in Alexandria. Learn more about our firm’s approach on our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.