Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code § 18.2-11 to felonies with years of potential incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide experience with 4,739+ documented case results and provides full representation for Alexandria residents facing charges at the Alexandria General District Court. Our Arlington location serves clients by appointment only.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felonies like grand larceny (theft of $1,000 or more under § 18.2-95) are more serious, with Class 5 felonies punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to build case-specific defense strategies.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court procedures and forms, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Alexandria charges occur at the Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street. Felony jury trials and appeals are handled by the Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets conditions for release; personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence, files pre-trial motions, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal a conviction or, for qualifying outcomes, petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to multi-year prison sentences, with specific ranges set by Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution; theft conviction record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points; mandatory minimum fine |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Discretionary | None | Felony record; restitution |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) (§ 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | Substance abuse assessment |
*Penalties shown are maximums under Virginia law. Results may vary based on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing deep insight into how cases are built and challenged. We focus on a case-specific approach for each client in Alexandria.
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
Case Results for Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions.
Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome. Results may vary.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location is accessible for clients with cases at Alexandria courts. We serve the Alexandria area and surrounding communities including Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Consultations are available by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 (24/7)
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
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: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, Virginia?
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 ~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. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer protects your rights and explores defenses.
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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Arlington County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.