Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Fauquier County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, covering offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. In Fauquier County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fauquier County General District Court located at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Criminal Law Resources
Fauquier County Criminal Court Process
Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Fauquier County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from General District Court decisions.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: After arrest, you’ll appear before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: Formal reading of charges at Fauquier County General District Court where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors exist.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Misdemeanor trials occur in General District Court; felonies move to Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal General District Court decisions to Fauquier County Circuit Court.
Fauquier County Criminal Penalties
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony conviction record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience with specific knowledge of Fauquier County court procedures. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
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
Fauquier County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Fauquier County: 1 case reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We represent clients throughout Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier County 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). Cases heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier County, 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier 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.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – Statewide hub page
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer – Nearby locality
- Fauquier County DUI/DWI Lawyer – Related practice area
- Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile – Of Counsel attorney
- Fairfax Office Location – Serving Fauquier County
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.