Arson charges in Arlington County carry severe penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-77, including up to 10 years in prison for a Class 4 felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended. An Arson Lawyer Arlington County can build your defense.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-77 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Under Virginia law, arson is defined as the willful and malicious burning of a dwelling house, building, or structure. Va. Code § 18.2-77 covers arson of a dwelling or occupied building, classified as a Class 4 felony. This carries a prison sentence of 2 to 10 years and a fine up to $100,000. An arson charge defense lawyer Arlington County understands these specific statutes.
For more information, review the official statute: Va. Code § 18.2-77 (Arson of dwelling house). The Arlington County General District Court handles preliminary hearings: Arlington County General District Court official site.
In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors routinely seek enhanced penalties for arson involving occupied structures. The court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd handles all preliminary hearings. A fire-related criminal charge lawyer Arlington County can challenge evidence of intent and origin.
- Step 1: Contact an Arson Lawyer Arlington County immediately after arrest.
- Step 2: Do not speak to investigators without counsel present.
- Step 3: Preserve any evidence that may show accidental cause.
- Step 4: Request a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
- Step 5: Prepare for potential trial in Arlington County Circuit Court.
In Arlington County, arson of a dwelling house carries 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arson of dwelling house (§ 18.2-77) | Class 4 felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Arson of other structure (§ 18.2-79) | Class 5 felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
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
Secondary attorney: Kristen M. Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor). Former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland. She handles criminal defense in Arlington County with deep trial experience.
In Arlington County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results: 11 dismissed/not guilty, 10 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location is near the Arlington County courts at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, accessible via I-395 and Route 50. An Arson Lawyer Arlington County near the Courthouse area can assist. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
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.
What is the penalty for arson in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes. Arson of a dwelling house is a Class 4 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-77, carrying 2 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000.
Can arson charges be reduced in Arlington County?
It depends. Charges may be reduced if the fire was accidental or if evidence of intent is weak. An Arson Lawyer Arlington County can negotiate with prosecutors.
How does bail work for arson in Arlington County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. For arson, secured bond is typical. Bond can be appealed to Arlington County General District Court.
Do I need an arson lawyer in Arlington County?
Yes. Arson is a serious felony with long prison sentences. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. Contact an Arson Lawyer Arlington County immediately.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for arson?
Arlington County General District Court handles preliminary hearings. Arlington County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.