Fairfax County Criminal Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Facing criminal charges in Fairfax County is a serious matter under Virginia law, with penalties ranging from fines to years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 120+ documented criminal defense results in Fairfax County courts. Spring break often leads to increased arrests for public intoxication and disorderly conduct in Fairfax County.
A criminal charge in Fairfax County requires an immediate and strategic legal response to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined
In Virginia, criminal offenses are defined and categorized under Va. Code Title 18.2. Crimes are classified as either misdemeanors or felonies based on their maximum potential punishment. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to 12 months in jail, while felonies carry a potential sentence of one year or more in a state correctional facility. The specific elements the prosecution must prove are outlined for each offense in the Virginia Code.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly) – The complete text of Virginia’s criminal statutes.
- Fairfax County Circuit Court – Official website for felony case information, forms, and procedures.
The Fairfax County Court Process
Criminal cases in Fairfax County begin with an arrest or summons. Misdemeanors are heard in the Fairfax County General District Court. Felonies start there for a preliminary hearing before moving to Fairfax County Circuit Court for trial. The Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office prosecutes all cases.
- Arrest & Booking: You are processed at the Fairfax County Adult Detention Center. Your first court date is set.
- General District Court Arraignment: You appear before a magistrate or judge. Charges are formally read, and you enter a plea. For felonies, this is a preliminary hearing.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your attorney obtains police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the prosecutor to build your defense.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiations: Your lawyer files motions to challenge evidence and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for possible plea resolutions.
- Trial or Final Disposition: Your case proceeds to a bench or jury trial in the appropriate court, or a plea agreement is finalized.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Convictions
In Fairfax County, criminal convictions carry severe penalties including incarceration, fines, and long-term collateral consequences.
| Offense (Va. Code) | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Petty Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record |
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Drug Possession (Schedule I/II) (§ 18.2-250) | Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Mandatory drug education |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case and court discretion.
Our Firm’s Experience in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides criminal defense grounded in real courtroom experience. Founded in 1997, our firm has a combined attorney experience of over 120 years. We have handled thousands of cases across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C. Our approach is case-specific, built on a deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecutor strategies. Global advocacy. Local precision.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am arrested in Fairfax County?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss your case with anyone until you speak with an attorney from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in Virginia?
Misdemeanors are less serious crimes punishable by up to 12 months in jail. Felonies are more serious offenses with potential prison sentences exceeding one year, as defined under Va. Code Title 18.2.
How long does a criminal case take in Fairfax County?
It depends on the charge and court. Misdemeanors in General District Court may resolve in 3-6 months. Felonies in Circuit Court often take 9-18 months or longer from arrest to final disposition.
Can a criminal charge be dismissed in Fairfax County?
Yes. Charges can be dismissed for insufficient evidence, procedural errors, or through successful pre-trial motions. Our attorneys review every case for potential dismissal grounds.
Do I need a lawyer for a first-time offense in Fairfax County?
Yes. Even a first offense can carry jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can seek alternative resolutions to protect your future.
Documented Case Results in Fairfax County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of criminal defense results in Fairfax County. Our local experience includes cases ranging from traffic misdemeanors to serious felonies. We work to achieve outcomes such as charge dismissals, reductions, and favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fairfax County
Our Fairfax location is minutes from the Fairfax County Courthouse, accessible via I-66 and Route 50. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fairfax County for clients in Annandale, Burke, Centreville, and Springfield.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
10505 Judicial Dr, Suite 203
Fairfax, VA 22030
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Lawyer – Our state-level hub for criminal defense.
- Arlington Criminal Lawyer – Defense representation in neighboring Arlington County.
- Fairfax County DUI Lawyer – Specialized defense for drunk driving charges.
- Learn more about Attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.
Attorney Advertising. This website is designed for general information only. The information presented at this site should not be construed as formal legal advice nor the formation of a lawyer/client relationship. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.