Criminal Defense Lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia law defines criminal offenses in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This includes everything from assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) to theft and drug possession. Each charge has a specific classification that determines the potential penalties you face.
Last verified: March 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
For the official Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and information, visit the Loudoun County General District Court website.
Loudoun County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Loudoun County prosecutes these cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Your first court date is the arraignment at 18 East Market Street, Leesburg, where you enter a plea.
- For misdemeanors, a trial in General District Court typically occurs within 4-8 weeks.
- For felonies, a preliminary hearing in GDC determines if there’s enough evidence for a Circuit Court trial.
- If the case proceeds, a felony jury trial in Loudoun County Circuit Court follows a longer timeline.
- Explore all options, including expungement for acquittals or dismissals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
In Loudoun County, criminal charges carry a range of penalties from fines to years in prison, depending on the offense classification under Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, record |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | DMV points, record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Court discretion | None | Restitution, felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are the maximum under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. With a documented 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide, our approach is built on direct experience with how cases are built and challenged in Virginia courts.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 42 documented criminal defense results in Loudoun County: 35 cases dismissed or found not guilty, 5 charges reduced or amended, and 2 other favorable resolutions. This represents a 100% favorable outcome rate for these documented Loudoun County cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts (18 East Market Street, Leesburg). As a criminal defense lawyer near Loudoun County, we represent individuals from Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, South Riding, Brambleton, Aldie, Hamilton, Lovettsville, Middleburg, and Round Hill.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Loudoun County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Loudoun County 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).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Loudoun 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 Loudoun County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Loudoun 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 Loudoun County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Loudoun County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Loudoun County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Loudoun County?
Loudoun County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Loudoun 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.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also assist with related matters in Loudoun County, including DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving charges. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance specific to your situation.