In Alexandria, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand Alexandria General District Court procedures. Contact us 24/7.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). In Alexandria, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) to Class 6 felonies (1-5 years imprisonment). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes all criminal cases in the city. Sentencing is governed by Va. Code § 19.2-295.1. Expungement is available for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. First-offender programs under § 19.2-303.2 may result in dismissal upon successful completion.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Court Resources
For official information on Alexandria criminal procedures, visit the Alexandria General District Court website. Review the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes at the Virginia General Assembly legislative portal.
What to Expect at Alexandria General District Court
Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Bond is set by a magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (10% fee to bondsman) is typical for felonies.
- Initial Appearance: You appear before a judge within 72 hours. The charges are read, and your rights are explained.
- Arraignment: You enter a plea. For misdemeanors, this occurs at the first court date. For felonies, a preliminary hearing is scheduled.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and any forensic evidence.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence, dismiss charges, or challenge procedural errors.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court. Felony trials proceed to Alexandria Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any offense carrying jail time.
In Alexandria, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to state prison time, depending on the classification of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; restitution required |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent felony record; loss of voting rights; firearm prohibition |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Permanent criminal record; insurance rate increase |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Alexandria Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases. We provide case-specific strategies case-specific to Alexandria General District Court procedures. Advocacy Without Borders.
Our team also includes Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney with over a decade of litigation experience, and Matthew Greene, who brings 30+ years of criminal defense experience including a 14-year contract with the City of Alexandria Child Protective Services.
Case Results in Alexandria and Beyond
SRIS actively practices in Alexandria. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Notable results include: In Alexandria US District Court, four counts of probation violation resolved with 3 days incarceration and termination of probation upon release. In Fairfax General District Court, a bond motion for solicitation of a minor on the internet resulted in bond granted on conditions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Alexandria Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Arlington Location serves clients at Alexandria courts (520 King Street). We are accessible via major highways in the region. We serve Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington Location
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Alexandria
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), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Alexandria General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, 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 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 approximately 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 and heard at Alexandria General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.