Arlington County Attempt Lawyer — Defending Incomplete Offense Charges
An attempt charge in Arlington County is a serious incomplete offense under Virginia law, punishable as if the crime were completed. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides defense for those facing attempt charges in Arlington County General District Court. Our attempt lawyer Arlington County team has documented results defending these complex cases. Contact us 24/7 for a consultation by appointment.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Attempt Crimes
In Virginia, the crime of attempt is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-26. This statute makes it unlawful to attempt to commit any felony or any misdemeanor, except where the attempt itself is expressly made a separate offense. The punishment for an attempt is typically one classification lower than the completed offense, but it remains a serious charge. For example, attempting a Class 5 felony (punishable by 1-10 years) becomes a Class 6 felony (punishable by 1-5 years). Attempting a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months) becomes a Class 2 misdemeanor (up to 6 months). The prosecution must prove you had the specific intent to commit the underlying crime and took a direct, substantial step toward its completion.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the attempt statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-26 (official Virginia General Assembly). Arlington County cases are heard at the Arlington County General District Court.
Defending an Attempt Charge in Arlington County
Defending an attempt charge requires challenging the prosecution’s evidence on both intent and action. In Arlington County General District Court, prosecutors must show you went beyond mere preparation. A skilled attempted crime defense lawyer Arlington County can argue you lacked the specific intent required or that your actions did not constitute a substantial step. Common defenses include abandonment, impossibility, or lack of evidence connecting you to the planned crime.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss the details of your arrest and the alleged intended crime with your attorney.
- Evidence Review: Your lawyer will scrutinize police reports, witness statements, and any physical or digital evidence for weaknesses.
- Motion Filing: File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if the prosecution’s case is insufficient.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work toward a favorable plea agreement or prepare for a bench trial in Arlington County General District Court.
In Arlington County, an attempt charge carries significant penalties, often just one step below the completed crime, making a strong defense critical.
| Underlying Offense Attempted | Attempt Classification | Potential Incarceration | Potential Fine |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 5 Felony (e.g., Grand Larceny) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 |
| Class 6 Felony | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 |
| Class 1 Misdemeanor (e.g., Assault) | Class 2 Misdemeanor | Up to 6 months | Up to $1,000 |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Attempt Charges
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the nuances of proving intent and action in attempt cases. Our team includes former prosecutors and defense attorneys who know how the Commonwealth builds these cases.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’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
Case Results
While specific attempt case results are integrated into our broader criminal defense outcomes, our documented record in Arlington County includes 21 criminal case results: 11 dismissed/not guilty and 10 reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for those cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr Suite 700, Arlington, VA 22209, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
Phones 24/7/365; Office by appointment only.
Serving Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, Shirlington.
Attempt Charge FAQs
What is an “attempt” under Virginia law?
It is an incomplete offense where you had the specific intent to commit a crime and took a direct, substantial step toward completing it, but the crime was not finished.
Can I be charged with attempt even if I didn’t finish the crime?
Yes. Virginia law punishes the attempt separately. The prosecution must prove you intended to commit the crime and took a significant action toward that goal.
What are common defenses to an attempt charge?
It depends on the facts. Defenses can include lack of specific intent, abandonment of the plan, factual impossibility, or that your actions only amounted to preparation, not a substantial step. An attempt lawyer Arlington County can evaluate the best strategy.
Is the punishment for attempt the same as the completed crime?
No. Under Va. Code § 18.2-26, the punishment is generally one classification lower. For example, attempting a felony becomes a lower-level felony or a misdemeanor.
Why do I need a lawyer for an attempt charge?
Attempt cases are complex, turning on evidence of your intent and actions. A skilled attempted crime defense lawyer Arlington County can challenge the prosecution’s theory, potentially getting charges reduced or dismissed before trial.
Last verified: April 2026. Information is subject to change. For current legal advice regarding an attempt charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.