Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Alexandria criminal charges are serious matters prosecuted at Alexandria General District Court under Va. Code Title 18.2, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys provide a strong defense. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. These cases are heard at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor).
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia statute.
- Alexandria General District Court website — court information and procedures.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes these cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Alexandria Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at Alexandria General District Court.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney can file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential resolutions with the prosecutor, which may include a reduction or diversion program.
- Trial or Hearing: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal or Sentencing: You can appeal a GDC conviction to Alexandria Circuit Court for a new jury trial, or proceed to sentencing.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time likely |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Alexandria Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We focus on providing full representation in Alexandria criminal courts. Our firm-wide case record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
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 Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients at the Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria. Contact us for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria 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. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96). Cases are heard at Alexandria General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, Virginia?
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 Alexandria Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through a deferred disposition program.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Alexandria. A secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. Bond decisions can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months in jail and create a permanent criminal record. An attorney can protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and represent you in court.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Alexandria?
Alexandria General District Court (GDC) handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria 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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page.
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arlington County — nearby locality.
- DUI/DWI Lawyer in Alexandria — related practice area.
- Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile — our former prosecutor.
- Our Arlington Location — serving Alexandria.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.