Facing a carjacking charge in Fairfax County? Under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1, carjacking is a Class 2 felony carrying 20 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County. A Carjacking Lawyer Fairfax can build your defense.
What Is Carjacking Under Virginia Law?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1, carjacking is the intentional taking of a motor vehicle from another person by force, threat, or intimidation. This offense is distinct from grand larceny of a vehicle because it requires the victim to be present and the taking to occur through violence or the threat of violence. The statute defines it as a Class 2 felony, one of the most serious non-homicide offenses in Virginia. A carjacking charge defense lawyer Fairfax understands the specific elements the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-58.1 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For more information, review the official Virginia carjacking statute and the Fairfax County General District Court website.
How Carjacking Cases Proceed in Fairfax County
Fairfax County General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for felony carjacking cases. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes these cases aggressively due to the violent nature of the offense. Cases bound over to Fairfax County Circuit Court for felony jury trials.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a Fairfax County magistrate for bond determination.
- Preliminary hearing in Fairfax County General District Court within 21-60 days of arrest.
- If probable cause is found, the case is certified to Fairfax County Circuit Court.
- Arraignment and pretrial motions in Circuit Court, including suppression hearings.
- Trial by jury in Fairfax County Circuit Court, where the Commonwealth must prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt.
In Fairfax County, a carjacking conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1 carries a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carjacking (§ 18.2-58.1) | Class 2 Felony | 20 years to life | Up to $100,000 | License suspension possible | Permanent criminal record; loss of firearm rights; difficulty finding employment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Carjacking 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 has firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our vehicle theft defense lawyer Fairfax team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its case. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating his deep understanding of Virginia criminal law.
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
Fairfax County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable — a 97% favorable outcome rate. These results include cases involving dangerous dog bites, obtaining money by false pretenses, and non-compliance with VASAP. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Fairfax County Carjacking Defense — Local Representation
Our Fairfax Location is minutes from the Fairfax County courts at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, accessible via I-66 and the Fairfax County Parkway. We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Carjacking Charges in Fairfax County
Can a carjacking charge be reduced to a lesser offense in Fairfax County?
Yes, in some cases. A skilled Carjacking Lawyer Fairfax may negotiate a plea to grand larceny of a vehicle or robbery, which carry lower penalties. The Commonwealth must agree to the reduction. Results depend on the evidence and your criminal history.
What is the difference between carjacking and grand larceny of a vehicle in Virginia?
Carjacking requires the victim to be present and the taking to occur through force, threat, or intimidation. Grand larceny of a vehicle does not require the victim’s presence. Carjacking is a Class 2 felony; grand larceny is a Class 5 or 6 felony.
Is a carjacking conviction eligible for expungement in Fairfax County?
No, a conviction for carjacking under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1 is not eligible for expungement in Virginia. Only acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi can be expunged under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
How long does a carjacking case take in Fairfax County?
A carjacking case typically takes 6-12 months from arrest to resolution. The preliminary hearing occurs within 21-60 days in General District Court. If bound over to Circuit Court, the trial may take 3-9 months. Speedy trial rights apply.
What should I do if I am arrested for carjacking in Fairfax County?
Remain silent and request a lawyer immediately. Do not make any statements to law enforcement without your attorney present. Contact a Carjacking Lawyer Fairfax as soon as possible to protect your rights and begin building your defense.
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.