Facing arson charges in Fauquier County? Under Va. Code § 18.2-77, arson is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Fauquier County. An Arson Lawyer Fauquier County can build your defense. Consultation by appointment.
Fauquier County Arson Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Understanding Arson Charges Under Virginia Law
Arson in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-77 as the malicious burning of a dwelling house, building, or structure. The statute covers both occupied and unoccupied structures. A conviction for arson of an occupied dwelling is a Class 4 felony, while burning an unoccupied structure is a Class 5 felony. The prosecution must prove you acted with malice and intent to burn. An arson charge defense lawyer Fauquier County can challenge the evidence and intent element.
Last verified: 2026-04 | Fauquier County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-77 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-77 — Arson of dwelling house (official Virginia General Assembly)
- Fauquier County General District Court (official court website)
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Fauquier County
Fauquier County General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for arson felonies. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all arson cases aggressively. Your first appearance occurs at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186.
- Step 1: Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Step 2: Preliminary hearing in General District Court within 21-60 days.
- Step 3: Indictment by grand jury if probable cause is found.
- Step 4: Arraignment in Fauquier County Circuit Court.
- Step 5: Discovery, motions, and plea negotiations.
- Step 6: Trial or plea hearing in Circuit Court.
In Fauquier County, arson carries severe penalties including prison time, fines, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Arson of occupied dwelling (§ 18.2-77) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Permanent criminal record; housing restrictions |
| Arson of unoccupied structure (§ 18.2-77) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Arson Defense?
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 with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds arson cases. An Arson Lawyer Fauquier County from our team can provide case-specific representation.
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 also includes Mr. Sris, founder and former prosecutor, and Bryan Block, former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience.
Case Results in Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Fauquier County: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Location Serving Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts (6 Court Street), accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We serve Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
Looking for a fire-related criminal charge lawyer Fauquier County near you? We are available 24/7 for phone consultations.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax Location
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Arson Charges in Fauquier County
What is the penalty for arson in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Yes. Arson of an occupied dwelling is a Class 4 felony carrying 2-10 years in prison and up to $100,000 in fines. Arson of an unoccupied structure is a Class 5 felony with 1-10 years possible.
Can arson charges be reduced in Fauquier County?
It depends. The Commonwealth may consider reducing charges if evidence of intent is weak, if property damage is minimal, or if you have no prior record. An experienced lawyer can negotiate for reduced charges.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time arson charge in Fauquier County?
Yes. Arson is a serious felony with mandatory prison time. Even a first offense carries 2-10 years. A lawyer can challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights throughout the process.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for arson in Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles the preliminary hearing for arson. Fauquier County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
How does bail work for arson charges in Fauquier County?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Secured bond is typical for felony arson (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%). Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Last verified: 2026-04. Information updated as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.