Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Alexandria
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Alexandria, charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, or Alexandria Circuit Court for felony trials. The law defines offenses from assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) to theft and drug crimes, each with specific elements the prosecution must prove.
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 Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For Alexandria court information, procedures, and forms, refer to the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. Misdemeanors are tried in Alexandria General District Court. Felonies start with a preliminary hearing there before potentially moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any offense with potential jail time.
- Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: You appear in Alexandria General District Court, are formally advised of charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial & Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC, a jury trial in Circuit Court, or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing & Appeals: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Alexandria Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Alexandria
In Alexandria, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law: 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| First Offense Marijuana Possession | Misdemeanor | Up to 30 days | Up to $500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | May qualify for first offender dismissal |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
*Penalties depend on specific facts and prior record. Results may vary.
Bond amount is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (a bail bondsman charges about 10%) is typical for felonies. The court-appointed attorney fee is $120 for misdemeanors and $445+ for felonies if you qualify.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Alexandria Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our team includes former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher and former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, providing inside perspectives on police and prosecution tactics. We focus on case-specific strategy, not volume.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our Alexandria practice handles cases from dismissal of misdemeanor charges to reduction of felony allegations.
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. As a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are 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 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, 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. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 to $445+.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney 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.
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 a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-time offense.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Arlington County criminal defense. If you face related charges, consider our Alexandria DUI/DWI lawyer or Alexandria family law lawyer services. 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.