Criminal Defense Lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia — What Is Your Best Defense?
Arlington County criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County, with 11 dismissals or not guilty verdicts. A strong defense starts now.
Understanding Criminal Charges Under Virginia Law
Virginia classifies criminal offenses under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). A Class 1 misdemeanor 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. Felony classifications range from Class 5 (1-10 years) to Class 6 (1-5 years). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Arlington County prosecutes all criminal cases in the county.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia General Assembly
- Arlington County General District Court — official court website
Insider Knowledge: Arlington County Court Procedures
Arlington County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday, 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM, at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd, Suite 2400.
- Arraignment: Appear before the judge to hear charges and enter a plea. This occurs within 72 hours of arrest.
- Bond Hearing: The magistrate sets bond conditions. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the Commonwealth’s evidence, including police reports and witness statements.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Trial or Plea: Proceed to bench trial in GDC or request a jury trial in Circuit Court. Felony preliminary hearings occur in GDC first.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties within statutory ranges. First-offender programs may apply.
In Arlington County, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to incarceration, depending on the classification of the offense.
| 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 | Criminal record; potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record; restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record; possible vehicle impoundment |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record; loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your 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 every case. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating the firm’s ability to shape Virginia law. The firm’s tagline — “Advocacy Without Borders” — reflects its commitment to clients across multiple jurisdictions.
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
Arlington County Criminal Defense Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 21 documented results in Arlington County: 11 dismissed or not guilty, 10 reduced or amended — a 100% favorable outcome rate. These results include a nolle prosequi on a domestic assault charge in Arlington County Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, a deferred disposition on a domestic assault charge, and a dismissal on an assault charge in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Arlington County Criminal Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at Arlington County courts, accessible via major highways. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Arlington County? Our team is ready to help.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Arlington County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Arlington County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor 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.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes, Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
How does bail work in Arlington County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes, criminal charges carry serious consequences including jail time and a permanent criminal record. Even misdemeanors require experienced representation.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Arlington County?
Arlington County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.