Criminal Defense Lawyer in Alexandria, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Alexandria criminal charges are serious matters prosecuted at Alexandria General District Court under Va. Code Title 18.2; a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation with a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results and over 93% favorable outcomes for clients in Alexandria and surrounding communities.
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. Misdemeanors (Class 1 and 2) are heard in General District Court, while felonies (Class 5 and 6) begin there but can go to Circuit Court for jury trial. The statutory framework is defined in Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses).
Last verified: March 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official resources: Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly) and the Alexandria General District Court website.
Alexandria General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Alexandria Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Alexandria prosecutes.
- Appear at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor) for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve your rights.
- Request and review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors or constitutional violations exist.
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or dismissal. If no agreement, prepare for a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Circuit Court.
In Alexandria, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: Class 1 misdemeanor up to 12 months jail/$2,500 fine; Class 5 felony 1-10 years.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record |
| Petit Larceny under $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) | 1-10 years (Class 5) | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our Alexandria criminal defense team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who provides unique insight into police procedures and evidence challenges.
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes (dismissals, not guilty verdicts, or charge reductions).
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Arlington location serves clients at Alexandria courts (520 King Street). As a criminal defense lawyer near Alexandria, we represent clients from Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. 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). Cases heard at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
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. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
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?
Criminal charges in Alexandria are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Alexandria General District Court (520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
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.
Explore more: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub | Criminal defense lawyer in Arlington County | Alexandria DUI/DWI lawyer | Attorney profile.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.