In Fauquier County, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Warrenton. A Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations lawyer Fauquier County handles federal bribery charges. Contact a Foreign Corrupt Practices Act FCPA Violations lawyer Fauquier County today.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). Misdemeanors are classified as Class 1 (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine) or Class 2 (up to 6 months, $1,000). Felonies range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fauquier County prosecutes all cases at the Fauquier County General District Court, 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the firm provides criminal defense across Virginia.
For the official state statute, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court information, visit the Fauquier County General District Court website.
Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 allow dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arrest and initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond.
- Arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court within 72 hours.
- Pre-trial conference with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Misdemeanor trial or felony preliminary hearing in GDC.
- If felony, case certified to Fauquier County Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Sentencing or appeal within 10 days of conviction.
In Fauquier County, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months jail and a $2,500 fine.
| 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 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| DWI, 1st Offense (§ 18.2-266) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | 1-year suspension | ASAP program, restricted license possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and has handled 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline: “Advocacy Without Borders.” Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. For Fauquier County, we have 1 documented result: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate).
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
Secondary attorney: Kristen M. Fisher, former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, joined the firm in 2010. Bar admissions: Maryland, Virginia.
In Fauquier County, we have 1 documented result: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate). Firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC: 4,739+ cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fairfax location is approximately 30 miles from Fauquier County General District Court, accessible via I-66 and Route 29.
Criminal defense lawyer near Warrenton, near the Fauquier County Courthouse in Old Town Warrenton.
Serving: Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032 | By appointment only.
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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 Fauquier County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier County, 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County 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 Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier County 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.