Arlington County Criminal Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
A criminal conviction in Arlington County can impact your employment, housing, and professional licenses. Immediate legal advice is critical.
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law is primarily codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Crimes are defined by specific elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. The Commonwealth categorizes offenses by class, which determines the potential penalty range. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, focuses on building strong defenses by challenging the evidence and procedures in each case.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses Generally) – Official Virginia statute.
- Arlington County Circuit Court – Official court website for felony cases.
Arlington County Court Process
The path of a criminal case depends on whether it is a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanors begin in Arlington County General District Court. Felonies start with a preliminary hearing in General District Court before moving to Circuit Court for trial. Prosecutors in Arlington often have heavy caseloads, which can create opportunities for early resolution.
- Arrest or Summons: You will be arrested or receive a summons to appear in court.
- Arraignment: You appear in General District Court (misdemeanor) or Circuit Court (felony) to hear charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains evidence and investigates the case.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: The case may resolve through a plea agreement or proceed to a bench or jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You have the right to appeal.
Virginia Criminal Penalties
In Arlington County, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law and vary by the class of felony or misdemeanor, with incarceration ranging from months to life.
| Offense Class | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1 Misdemeanor | Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Probation, permanent record |
| Class 6 Felony | Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Loss of civil rights, firearm restrictions |
| Class 5 Felony | Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, immigration consequences |
| Class 4 Felony | Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | Long-term prison, significant collateral damage |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years. Our attorneys include former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, who understand both sides of a case. This experience is applied to defend clients in Arlington County and across the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in Arlington County?
Remain calm and polite. Do not discuss the details of your case with anyone except your attorney. Invoke your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Virginia?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to 12 months in jail and fines up to $2,500. Felonies are more serious offenses with potential prison sentences of one year to life, depending on the class.
Can a criminal charge be dismissed in Arlington County?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed if evidence is insufficient, your rights were violated, or through a plea agreement. An experienced attorney can evaluate your case for dismissal opportunities.
How long does a criminal case take in Arlington County Circuit Court?
Felony cases in Circuit Court typically take 9-18 months from arrest to resolution. Misdemeanors in General District Court are often resolved in 3-6 months. Complex cases or trials can extend these timelines.
Will a criminal conviction affect my professional license in Virginia?
It depends. Many Virginia licensing boards can deny, suspend, or revoke licenses for criminal convictions, especially for crimes involving moral turpitude. An attorney can advise on reporting requirements and defense strategies.
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of over 4,739 case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our attorneys work to achieve dismissals, charge reductions, and alternative resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Arlington County
Our Arlington location is minutes from the Arlington County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We serve clients in Arlington, Ballston, Clarendon, Courthouse, and surrounding Northern Virginia communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
2100 Clarendon Blvd
Arlington, VA 22201
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer – State-level hub page.
- Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer – Defense in a neighboring county.
- Arlington County DUI Lawyer – Related practice area in the same locality.
- Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.