Criminal Defense Lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Falls Church
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in the Virginia Code. In Falls Church, most criminal cases begin at the Falls Church General District Court located at 300 Park Avenue.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm combines over 120 years of legal experience to handle your case.
Last verified: March 2026 | Falls Church General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For Falls Church court information, see the Falls Church General District Court website.
Falls Church Criminal Court Process
Falls Church General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Falls Church prosecutes cases. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: You appear before a judge, are formally advised of charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Hearing: For misdemeanors, a bench trial occurs in GDC. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if there’s probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Disposition: Case concludes via dismissal, plea agreement, or trial verdict.
- Appeal: You can appeal a GDC conviction to Falls Church Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Expungement: If eligible, file a petition in Circuit Court to seal records after a favorable outcome.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Falls Church
In Falls Church, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while felonies can lead to years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, increased insurance |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges approximately 10%) is typical for felonies.
Our Experience in Falls Church Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into case construction and police procedures. We have a documented record of successful outcomes in Falls Church.
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 Falls Church
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented criminal defense results in Falls Church: 5 cases were dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge was reduced or amended, resulting in a 100% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Falls Church, Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Falls Church courts (300 Park Avenue), accessible via Route 7, Route 29, I-66, and I-495. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Falls Church City Hall and the West Falls Church Metro station.
We serve the Falls Church area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Falls Church, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Falls Church 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, petit larceny under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Falls Church, Virginia?
Yes, 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 Falls Church Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Falls Church, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Falls Church. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Falls Church General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Falls Church, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Falls Church are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Falls Church 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 Falls Church?
Falls Church General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Falls Church 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.
More Legal Information
For more on Virginia criminal defense, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Falls Church, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and reckless driving charges. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.