In Stafford County, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 18 documented results in Stafford County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense.
Understanding Criminal Law in Stafford County
Virginia criminal law is codified under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Stafford County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes offenses ranging from petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96) to felony assault. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides criminal defense representation at Stafford County General District Court and Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Stafford County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official court information, visit the Stafford County General District Court website. The Virginia Code sections governing criminal offenses are available at Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly).
Insider Knowledge: Stafford County Court Process
Stafford County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Stafford County prosecutes cases at 1300 Courthouse Road.
- Arrest and initial appearance before magistrate for bond setting.
- Arraignment at Stafford County General District Court within 72 hours.
- Discovery phase where your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with the prosecutor.
- Trial before a judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court for felony charges).
- Sentencing or appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days of conviction.
In Stafford County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, with classification determining the maximum sentence.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Stafford County Criminal Case
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. With 4,739+ documented case results and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide, our attorneys understand the Stafford County court system. 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 effect real change in Virginia law.
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
Stafford County Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 18 documented results in Stafford County: 17 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Visit Our Location Serving Stafford County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Stafford County courts (1300 Courthouse Road), accessible via I-95, Route 1, Route 17, and Route 610.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Stafford? We serve Stafford, Aquia Harbour, and Brooke.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Stafford County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Stafford County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Stafford 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 Stafford County General District Court (1300 Courthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Stafford 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 Stafford County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Stafford County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Stafford County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Stafford County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Stafford County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Stafford County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Stafford County General District Court (1300 Courthouse Road, Stafford, VA 22554). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Stafford County?
Stafford County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Stafford 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.
Learn more about our Virginia criminal defense lawyer services. We also serve Fairfax County and Prince William County. For other legal needs in Stafford County, see our DUI defense lawyer and family law lawyer pages.
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.