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Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, 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 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our Arlington location serves Alexandria clients by appointment only.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are heard at Alexandria General District Court, while felonies proceed to Alexandria Circuit Court for trial.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a background in accounting and information systems to complex financial cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Alexandria court information, visit the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes cases at the courthouse on 520 King Street.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea at Alexandria General District Court.
- Bond Hearing: A magistrate sets bond; personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pre-trial motions.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The court determines if there is probable cause to send a felony case to Circuit Court.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC; felony jury trials are in Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you can appeal a GDC decision to Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| 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) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony 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. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal cases in Alexandria. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a case. Global advocacy. Local precision.
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 Alexandria
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District Court and Alexandria Circuit Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location is minutes from Alexandria courts, accessible via major highways. We serve Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
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) and petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96).
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?
Yes. Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Arlington County. In Alexandria, we handle related matters including DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher or visit our Arlington location page.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
