Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Alexandria, Virginia, criminal charges are prosecuted under Va. Code Title 18.2 and can carry up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. 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 case results include dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions across Virginia.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses as misdemeanors or 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, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Alexandria court information, visit the Alexandria General District Court 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 move to Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, hear the charges, and enter a plea.
- Bond Hearing: The court may set conditions for release if you are detained.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pre-trial motions.
- Plea Negotiations: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may offer a plea agreement.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to trial or is resolved by plea.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you can appeal to Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| 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 | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Disorderly Conduct | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Community service possible |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and evidence.
Our Criminal Defense Experience in Alexandria
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 have achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand 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 handled 4,739+ documented criminal case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our results include dismissals, acquittals, and charge reductions for clients facing misdemeanor and felony charges.
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 General District Court.
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 can protect your rights, challenge evidence, and seek the best possible outcome.
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 need assistance with a related matter, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family law attorney. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.