Criminal Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in King George County
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. A Class 1 misdemeanor is the most serious misdemeanor level. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The King George County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, visit the King George County General District Court website.
King George County Court Process
Your case begins with an arrest or summons. Misdemeanors are tried in King George County General District Court. Felonies start with a preliminary hearing there before potentially moving to King George County Circuit Court for jury trial.
- Initial appearance or arraignment where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery exchange with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Negotiation for reduction, dismissal, or diversion program.
- If no agreement, preparation for bench trial (GDC) or jury trial (Circuit).
- Sentencing hearing if convicted, or expungement filing if case is dismissed.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in King George County
In King George County, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 years in prison.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (<$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 6 or 5) | 1-20 years | Up to $2,500 | 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 maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and court discretion.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance release is common for first-time misdemeanors. Secured bond through a bail bondsman (typically 10% fee) is more likely for felonies. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies, based on income eligibility.
Firm Experience in Criminal Defense
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 and 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our King George County criminal defense team includes former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who brings 15 years of law enforcement insight, and former Maryland prosecutor Kristen Fisher.
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 in King George County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented criminal defense results in King George County, with 3 cases dismissed or resulting in not guilty verdicts — a 75% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts (10446 Government Center Blvd). We are accessible via Route 3, Route 301, and Route 206. Our criminal defense lawyer near King George County provides representation for residents of King George and Dahlgren.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King George County 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 King George County General District Court (10446 Government Center Blvd, Ste 105, King George, VA 22485). 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty (75% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in King George County, 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 King George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty (75% favorable outcome rate).
How does bail work in King George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in King George County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to King George County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in King George County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in King George County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at King George County General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 4 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty (75% favorable outcome rate).
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in King George County?
King George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. King George 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas including Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer and Prince William County criminal defense lawyer. In King George County, we also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.