Facing a criminal charge in Arlington County? Under Va. Code Title 18.2, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County, with 11 dismissals and 10 reductions. A Firearm by Felon Lawyer Arlington County can help protect your rights.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors range from Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 4 (up to 30 days, $250 fine). Felonies range from Class 1 (life in prison) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes all criminal cases. A Firearm by Felon Lawyer Arlington County understands how these classifications apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official legal references, consult the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) and the Arlington County General District Court website. These government sources provide the most current legal information.
Insider Procedural Edge: Arlington County Court Process
Arlington County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion. Expungement is available for acquittals, nolle prosequi, and dismissals under § 19.2-392.2.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment in General District Court within 72 hours of arrest.
- Discovery phase: prosecutor shares evidence; your attorney files motions.
- Pre-trial conference to discuss plea options or trial scheduling.
- Trial in General District Court or preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days if convicted in GDC.
In Arlington County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time. A Firearm by Felon Lawyer Arlington County can explain how these penalties apply to your case.
| 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 |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights |
| Drug Possession (§ 18.2-250) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Criminal record; possible drug treatment |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive representation.
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating our firm’s ability to shape Virginia law. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Our team also includes Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, and Matthew Greene, who brings 30+ years of criminal defense experience. A Firearm by Felon Lawyer Arlington County from our firm can provide the strong defense you need.
Case Results in Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate. Examples include a nolle prosequi for destruction of property under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-137), a dismissal for littering (Va. Code § 33.1-346), and a nolle prosequi for fare evasion (Va. Code § 14.2-81).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Arlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Arlington Location serves clients at Arlington County courts (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). We are accessible via major highways in the area.
Searching for a “criminal defense lawyer near Arlington” or “criminal defense attorney near Crystal City”? We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Arlington County
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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.