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 § 18.2-11 to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide and provides full representation at Alexandria General District Court. Our Arlington location serves Alexandria clients by appointment only.
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault under Va. Code § 18.2-57, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison. The Alexandria Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Alexandria General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, with felony trials held at Alexandria Circuit Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia Legislative Information System
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. 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, located at 520 King Street. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any charge carrying potential jail time.
- Arraignment: Appear in Alexandria GDC to enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Discuss potential plea agreements or diversion programs with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Hearing: Proceed to a bench trial in GDC for misdemeanors, or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Appeal or Circuit Court: Elect a jury trial in Alexandria Circuit Court or appeal a GDC conviction.
- Sentencing: If convicted, present mitigation evidence at a separate sentencing hearing.
Alexandria Criminal Penalties
In Alexandria, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to years in prison for felonies, with specific classifications set by Virginia law.
| 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 under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Virginia Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal cases in Alexandria. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a 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
Alexandria Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our attorneys actively practice in Alexandria General District Court and Alexandria Circuit 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, including the Alexandria General District Court at 520 King Street. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. For a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria, contact us for a consultation 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.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 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 Alexandria, 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 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 is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Alexandria General District Court. Public defender eligibility is based on income.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry jail time and create a permanent record. A lawyer protects your rights and can seek dismissal or reduction of charges.
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.
Virginia Criminal Defense Resources
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in Arlington County. If you need related legal help in Alexandria, consider our Alexandria DUI lawyer or Alexandria family law lawyer. 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.