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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from misdemeanors like assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) to felonies like grand larceny, carrying penalties from 12 months in jail to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our Arlington location serves Alexandria clients facing prosecution at the Alexandria General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine (Va. Code § 18.2-11). A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries 1 to 10 years in prison (Va. Code § 18.2-95).
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
All misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings for Alexandria cases are held 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 charged and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Plea Negotiation: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may offer a plea agreement to resolve the case without trial.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial in General District Court or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If found guilty, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a General District Court decision to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines and probation to years in prison, with specific consequences based on the offense classification under 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum 10 days jail for 3rd offense |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Malicious Wounding (§ 18.2-51) | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Violent felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, prior record, and court discretion.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
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. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing deep insight into both sides of the courtroom. We focus on strategic defense, from challenging evidence to negotiating favorable resolutions.
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 Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts in cases ranging from misdemeanors to felonies.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, Virginia
Our Arlington location is accessible for clients with cases at the Alexandria General District Court. We serve the Alexandria area, including Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Consultations are available by appointment only. For 24/7 phone consultations, call (888) 437-7747.
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
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). Cases heard at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320).
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?
Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. 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 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, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. If you are in a neighboring area, see our criminal defense lawyer in Arlington County. For related practice areas in Alexandria, consider DUI/DWI defense or family law services. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
