Facing criminal charges in Madison County? A Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 45 documented case results in Madison County. An Arson Lawyer Madison County can help protect your rights. Contact us 24/7.
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. In Madison County, charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felonies (1-5 years in prison). The specific statute governing your case depends on the alleged conduct. An Arson Lawyer Madison County understands these classifications and how they apply to your situation. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all criminal cases in Madison County.
For arson-related charges specifically, Va. Code § 18.2-77 addresses burning or destroying a dwelling house, and § 18.2-79 covers burning other buildings. These statutes carry felony penalties with potential sentences of 2 to 10 years or more depending on the structure involved and whether anyone was present. An arson charge defense lawyer Madison County must analyze which specific statute applies to your case.
Review the official statutes: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures, visit the Madison County General District Court website.
Madison County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment in General District Court within 72 hours for incarcerated defendants.
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in GDC for misdemeanors; preliminary hearing for felonies before Circuit Court transfer.
- Sentencing or appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days of a GDC conviction.
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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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 |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record, possible vehicle impoundment |
| Arson of Dwelling (§ 18.2-77) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent felony record, sex offender registration if applicable |
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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. Our team includes former prosecutors and law enforcement officers who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. A fire-related criminal charge lawyer Madison County from our firm brings this depth of experience to your defense.
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
Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel and former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, also handles criminal defense matters in Madison County. Her prosecutorial background provides insight into case construction and courtroom dynamics.
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. These results include dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts in criminal cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Madison County courts (1 Main Street, Madison, VA 22727), accessible via Route 29 and Route 231. We serve the Madison community and surrounding areas.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Madison County? We are here to help.
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?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor in Madison 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. 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. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Madison County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Madison County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond, where a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%, is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to the General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Madison County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Madison County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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 an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Madison County DUI Lawyer