In Fairfax County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for misdemeanors. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed or not guilty, 143 reduced. Former prosecutors on staff. Consultation by appointment.
Criminal Law in Fairfax County: Statutory Framework
Virginia classifies criminal offenses under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors divide into Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) and Class 2 (up to 6 months, $1,000 fine). Felonies range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Fairfax County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm has handled thousands of criminal cases across Northern Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and forms are available at the Fairfax County General District Court website (.gov).
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Fairfax County Court
Fairfax County General District Court processes a high volume of criminal cases. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes aggressively. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion for eligible defendants.
- Arrest and booking: You receive a summons or are held for bond hearing before a magistrate.
- First appearance in GDC: Arraignment occurs within 48 hours. Enter a plea or request a continuance to hire counsel.
- Discovery phase: Your attorney requests police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth.
- Motion practice: File suppression motions or dismissals based on procedural errors or insufficient evidence.
- Trial or plea: Misdemeanor trials in GDC are bench trials. Felony cases proceed to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately in GDC. Appeals go to Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Fairfax County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on classification.
| 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 | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Drug Possession (§ 18.2-250) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 6-month license suspension | Criminal record, potential drug court |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has documented firm-wide 4,739+ case results across Virginia, Maryland, DC, New Jersey, and New York, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. The firm’s tagline — “Advocacy Without Borders” — reflects its commitment to clients across multiple jurisdictions.
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
Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 501 documented results in Fairfax County: 336 dismissed or not guilty, 143 reduced or amended, 5 other favorable — a 97% favorable outcome rate. Examples include a child restraint charge under Va. Code § 46.2-1095 resolved by nolle prosequi (dismissal) in Fairfax County GDC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is near Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road), accessible via I-66 and Route 50.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County? We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Fairfax County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and $1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. See also our Falls Church criminal defense lawyer page and Fairfax DUI lawyer page. Meet our team: Kristen Fisher. Visit our Fairfax office location page.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.