In Prince William County, 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 141 documented results in Prince William County, including 118 dismissals. A Drug Distribution Lawyer Prince William County can help you understand your options.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Prince William County
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses by severity. Class 1 misdemeanors, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carry up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). A Drug Distribution Lawyer Prince William County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can explain how these statutes apply to your specific situation.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Review the official Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) for complete statutory definitions. Court procedures are governed by the Prince William County General District Court.
Insider Procedural Edge: What to Expect in Prince William County Court
Prince William County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at 9311 Lee Avenue, Manassas.
First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion. Expungement is available for acquittals and dismissals under § 19.2-392.2.
- Arraignment: Your first court appearance where charges are read and a plea is entered.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence from the prosecution.
- Motion Practice: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation: Discuss potential plea agreements with the prosecutor.
- Trial: Bench trial in GDC or jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties.
In Prince William County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 | Criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
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 achieved firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to shape Virginia law. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds its cases.
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
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 in Prince William County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 141 documented results in Prince William County: 118 dismissed or not guilty, 19 reduced or amended, and 1 other favorable outcome — a 98% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax Location serves clients at Prince William County courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28.
Searching for a criminal defense lawyer near Prince William County? We serve Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Prince William County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince William 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 a $1,000 fine. Cases are heard at Prince William County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William County, 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 Prince William County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in Prince William County, Virginia?
It depends. A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to the General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia?
Yes. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases aggressively. An experienced lawyer can protect your rights.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince William County?
Yes. General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a 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 current guidance.