Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code Title 18.2 to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced criminal defense representation at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street). Our firm-wide 4,739+ documented results and 93%+ favorable outcome rate demonstrate our commitment to protecting your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court information, see the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Criminal cases in Alexandria begin at the Alexandria General District Court for misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials proceed to Alexandria Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, hear the charges, and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: The magistrate sets bond conditions; 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 probable cause exists to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Trial: Your case is heard before a judge (GDC) or jury (Circuit Court).
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you can appeal GDC decisions to Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal penalties range from fines to years in prison: a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years.
| 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 typically | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, record |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
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 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 unique insight into case construction and courtroom strategy. We serve Alexandria and surrounding communities with a commitment to precise, effective representation.
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 achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., 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, Virginia
Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria courts. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. Contact us 24/7 for phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are 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 carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. 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 visible to employers. A lawyer protects your rights and can seek reduced or dismissed charges.
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 clients in Arlington County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family law attorney. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.