In Fairfax County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County, including 336 dismissals. A Gun Crime Lawyer Fairfax can help protect your rights and future.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Fairfax County, Virginia
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. 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 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fairfax County prosecutes all criminal cases at the Fairfax County General District Court, located at 4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Government Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 — Crimes and Offenses (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Fairfax County General District Court (official Virginia Courts website)
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Fairfax County Court
Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court processes a high volume of cases daily, so early preparation is critical.
Prosecutors in Fairfax County routinely oppose bond for certain charges. Having a Gun Crime Lawyer Fairfax who knows the local court procedures can make a significant difference in your case outcome.
- Step 1: Arrest and Initial Appearance — You appear before a magistrate who sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Step 2: Arraignment — You enter a plea at Fairfax County General District Court. Misdemeanor trials are typically scheduled 4-8 weeks from arraignment.
- Step 3: Discovery and Motions — Your attorney reviews the prosecution’s evidence and files pretrial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Step 4: Trial or Plea Negotiation — Your case proceeds to trial before a judge, or your attorney negotiates a plea agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Step 5: Sentencing — If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence within statutory guidelines. Your attorney can argue for a reduced sentence or alternative disposition.
- Step 6: Appeal (if necessary) — You have 10 days to appeal a GDC conviction to Fairfax County Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to significant jail 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 |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Disorderly Conduct (§ 18.2-415) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
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 to every case. Our firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to effect real change in Virginia law. We handle criminal defense with the insight that only former prosecutors can provide.
Our Fairfax County criminal defense team includes Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience, and Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Together, they bring unparalleled insight into police procedures and prosecutorial strategies.
Additionally, Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, brings significant insight into case construction and courtroom dynamics. Matthew Greene, with 30+ years of experience, provides additional depth to our criminal defense team.
Fairfax County Criminal Defense 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 demonstrate our commitment to achieving the best possible outcomes for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Notable case results include a bond granted on conditions for a solicitation of minor charge at Fairfax General District Court, a nolle prosequi for simulated masturbation at Fairfax County General District Court, and a sentence/probation revocation for non-compliance with VASAP at Fairfax County GDC.
Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax Location serves clients at Fairfax County courts (4110 Chain Bridge Road). We are accessible via major highways and serve the following communities: Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, Falls Church area.
Searching for a “criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax” or “Gun Crime Lawyer Fairfax”? Our team is ready to help.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and $1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Fairfax County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. A Gun Crime Lawyer Fairfax can help protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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 updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.