Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Alexandria, charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and adjudicated at the Alexandria General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, with felony trials held at Alexandria Circuit Court. The law categorizes offenses by class, with specific penalties defined by statute.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) maintained by the Virginia General Assembly. For Alexandria court procedures and information, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. For misdemeanors, your trial will be at Alexandria General District Court. For felonies, a preliminary hearing occurs there before potential transfer to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: You formally hear the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions and exchanges evidence with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or, for felonies, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law: a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5/6) | 1-20 years* | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and court discretion.
Our Firm’s Background in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We maintain a focused, collaborative approach where every attorney has over a decade of practice. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results.
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 in Alexandria and Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in cases ranging from misdemeanors to serious felonies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Alexandria courts at 520 King Street. We serve clients throughout Alexandria, including Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria ready to assist. Consultations are available 24/7 by phone 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: 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).
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 deferred disposition.
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. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond 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 jail and create a permanent criminal record. A lawyer protects your rights, explores defenses, and negotiates with prosecutors.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Alexandria?
Alexandria General District Court 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 Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, see our criminal defense lawyer in Arlington page. For other legal needs in Alexandria, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.