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 full representation in Alexandria General District Court, with firm-wide experience handling 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys understand local procedures.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined by statute. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 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 at the Alexandria General District Court located at 520 King Street.
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 General Assembly website (Va. Code Title 18.2). For Alexandria court information, including forms and procedures, refer to the Alexandria General District Court official website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Alexandria General District Court. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials occur in Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, are advised of charges, and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: If incarcerated, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Preliminary Hearing (Felonies): The court determines if probable cause exists to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Trial or Plea: Your case proceeds to trial in GDC (misdemeanor) or Circuit Court (felony), or may be resolved by plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law: a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine; a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years imprisonment.
| 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 (< $1,000) (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | 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 fine |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Firm Credentials in Alexandria Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We maintain a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a criminal case.
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 and Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved firm-wide results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with 4,739+ documented case results and a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District 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 for a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria.
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?
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. An attorney protects your rights and can seek dismissal or reduction.
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. We also serve neighboring areas like Arlington County criminal defense. In Alexandria, explore related practice areas: Alexandria DUI/DWI lawyer and Alexandria family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
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.