
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia
Alexandria criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11) to felonies; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes in Alexandria and surrounding communities. Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street).
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity: misdemeanors (Classes 1-4) and felonies (Classes 1-6). Alexandria General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria Circuit Court conducts felony jury trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia statute
- Alexandria General District Court website — court information
Alexandria Criminal Court Process
Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street processes all misdemeanor cases. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may lead to dismissal.
- Arrest and bond hearing before a magistrate.
- Arraignment at Alexandria General District Court to enter plea.
- Discovery review and pre-trial motions filing.
- Misdemeanor trial in GDC or felony preliminary hearing.
- Sentencing or appeal to Alexandria Circuit Court.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, criminal penalties follow Virginia sentencing guidelines: Class 1 misdemeanor up to 12 months jail/$2,500; Class 5 felony 1-10 years.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Possible suspension | First offender program |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years of combined attorney experience to Alexandria criminal cases. Our firm-wide 4,739+ documented results include dismissals, reductions, and not guilty verdicts.
Kristen M. Fisher
Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor) | Bar Admissions: Maryland, Virginia
Former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland with firsthand prosecutorial experience in District and Circuit Courts. Joined Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 2010 with 75% litigation focus.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Alexandria Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our Alexandria representation includes dismissals, charge reductions, and alternative sentencing.
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), 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). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes
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. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes
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. 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 (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes Contact SRIS 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. Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320) is the GDC location.
Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page
- Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality
- Alexandria DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.