Alexandria Strangulation Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Strangulation is a serious felony in Alexandria, Virginia, prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. A conviction can result in up to 5 years in prison and a permanent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing strangulation charges. Our Alexandria strangulation lawyer team includes former prosecutors with deep knowledge of local court procedures. We offer 24/7 consultations.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Strangulation, defined as impeding blood circulation or breathing by applying pressure to the neck, is a specific criminal offense in Virginia. Under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, it is classified as a Class 6 felony. This charge is often associated with domestic violence incidents but can arise in other contexts. The prosecution must prove you intentionally and unlawfully impeded another person’s breathing or blood circulation.
If you are charged, the case begins at Alexandria General District Court for a preliminary hearing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria will prosecute. Given the severe penalties and complex nature of these cases, securing an experienced strangulation charge defense lawyer Alexandria is critical from the outset.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 (official Virginia General Assembly statute)
- Alexandria General District Court website
- Secure Immediate Legal Representation: Contact a lawyer before speaking to investigators. Anything you say can be used against you.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will review all police reports, witness statements, and medical records to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if constitutional rights were violated during the arrest or investigation.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea cannot be reached, they will prepare a vigorous defense for trial in Alexandria Circuit Court.
In Alexandria, a strangulation conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, though a jury can reduce it to a misdemeanor with up to 12 months in jail. Fines are at the court’s discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (Va. Code § 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years (or up to 12 months if reduced to misdemeanor) | Court Discretion | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, protective orders, impact on employment/immigration. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Strangulation Defense Team
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm-wide track includes 4,739+ documented case results. We understand the high stakes of a felony strangulation charge and the specific dynamics of Alexandria courts. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor provides unique insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Our team, which also includes Mr. Sris, has successfully defended clients against serious felony charges. We meticulously analyze police reports, challenge forensic evidence, and advocate for our clients at every stage, from the initial hearing at Alexandria General District Court to potential jury trials in Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Strangulation Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is strangulation a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Strangulation under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison. A jury can reduce the conviction to a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail.
What is the difference between assault and strangulation?
Strangulation is a specific charge for impeding breathing or blood circulation. It is a separate, more serious felony than simple assault and battery. Prosecutors often add it in domestic violence cases, requiring a strangulation charge defense lawyer Alexandria with specific experience.
Can a strangulation charge be dropped?
It depends. Charges can be dropped if evidence is weak, witnesses are uncooperative, or rights were violated. An experienced domestic strangulation lawyer Alexandria can file motions and negotiate with prosecutors, aiming for dismissal or reduction to a lesser offense.
What should I do if I am charged with strangulation?
Do not speak to police without an attorney. Immediately contact a strangulation lawyer Alexandria. Preserve any evidence, including text messages or witness information. Your lawyer will guide you through the process at Alexandria General District Court.
How can a lawyer help with a strangulation case?
A lawyer investigates the evidence, challenges the prosecution’s narrative, files pre-trial motions, negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, and provides a strong defense at trial. Their goal is to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome.
Related Pages: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer | Alexandria Domestic Violence Lawyer
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.