Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges range from misdemeanors to felonies under Va. Code Title 18.2, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide experience with 4,739+ documented case results. Our Arlington location serves Alexandria clients facing charges at the Alexandria General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined by Statute
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. This statute defines offenses, classifications, and penalties for crimes ranging from assault and battery to theft and drug possession.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and 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. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment at Alexandria General District Court to enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery exchange with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court (misdemeanor) or preliminary hearing (felony).
- For felonies, a Circuit Court jury trial if not resolved in GDC.
- Sentencing or case resolution through plea, dismissal, or trial verdict.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal penalties vary by offense classification: Class 1 misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and $2,500; Class 5 felonies carry 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 | 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 fine |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and legal strategy.
Firm Credentials in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm combines over 120 years of legal experience. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into case construction from both sides.
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
Documented Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Representation Near Alexandria
Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria courts, including the Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street. We represent individuals in 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), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301).
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?
Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
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 Virginia criminal defense overview, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. For defense in nearby Arlington, visit our Arlington County criminal defense lawyer page. If facing DUI charges in Alexandria, our Alexandria DUI lawyer can help. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background.
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.