Strangulation Lawyer Fauquier County — What Are Your Defense Options?
A strangulation charge in Fauquier County is a serious Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for these charges at Fauquier County General District Court. Our strangulation lawyer Fauquier County team offers 24/7 consultations. Call (888) 437-7747 for an appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Strangulation Law and Penalties
Strangulation is defined under Virginia law as impeding the blood circulation or respiration of another person by applying pressure to the neck, resulting in wounding or bodily injury. This is codified in Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. The statute elevates what might be charged as simple assault to a felony when the act involves strangulation, reflecting the severe risk of injury or death. The law firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting provides an edge in complex case analysis.
In Fauquier County, a strangulation charge is a Class 6 felony carrying 1 to 5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (§ 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of firearm rights, protective orders, immigration consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Court Process and Defense Strategy in Fauquier County
Fauquier County General District Court handles the initial arraignment and preliminary hearings for felony strangulation charges. The case will then move to Fauquier County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. Prosecutors in the 20th Judicial District take these charges seriously, often seeking aggressive penalties. A strong defense requires immediate action to challenge the evidence of intent and injury.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a strangulation charge defense lawyer Fauquier County immediately after arrest to discuss the allegations and secure representation.
- Arraignment & Bond Hearing: Appear at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton) to enter a plea and address bail conditions.
- Preliminary Hearing: Challenge the prosecution’s evidence to show lack of probable cause for the felony charge, potentially getting it reduced or dismissed.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If the case proceeds, file pre-trial motions in Fauquier County Circuit Court to suppress evidence or challenge the validity of the charge.
- Trial or Negotiation: Prepare for a jury trial or negotiate a favorable plea agreement, such as a reduction to a misdemeanor assault charge.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 documented case results firm-wide, we bring substantial resources to complex cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a documented result in Fauquier County with a 100% favorable outcome rate in our available records.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our approach focuses on achieving the best possible outcome. In Fauquier County, we have documented case results. For instance, our team has successfully negotiated reductions of serious charges. Of Counsel attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his experience from amending Virginia state law.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Fauquier County, with the courthouse in Warrenton accessible via I-66 and Route 29. We are a strangulation lawyer near Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — all meetings are by appointment only.
Fauquier County Strangulation Charge FAQs
Is strangulation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Strangulation resulting in wounding or bodily injury is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison.
What is the difference between assault and strangulation in Virginia?
Strangulation is a specific, more serious felony charge under § 18.2-51.6 that requires impeding breath or blood flow and resulting injury. Simple assault is generally a misdemeanor. A domestic strangulation lawyer Fauquier County can explain how the facts of a case determine the charge.
Can a strangulation charge be reduced?
It depends. A strong defense may lead to a reduction to a misdemeanor assault charge, especially if the evidence of injury or intent is challenged successfully. An experienced strangulation charge defense lawyer Fauquier County can negotiate with prosecutors.
What should I do if I am charged with strangulation in Fauquier County?
Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. Immediately contact a lawyer to protect your rights. Your first court date will be at Fauquier County General District Court at 6 Court Street in Warrenton.
Where is the Fauquier County courthouse?
The Fauquier County General District Court is located at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186. You can find more information on the Virginia Courts official website.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist with related matters like DUI defense in Fauquier County and family law. If you are in a neighboring area, our Fairfax County criminal lawyers can help.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. Consult an attorney for current legal advice.