Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Fauquier County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in the Virginia Code. In Fauquier County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fauquier County General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, or the Fauquier County Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm combines over 120 years of legal experience to handle criminal defense matters across Virginia.
Official Legal Resources
Fauquier County Court Process
Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Fauquier County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from the General District Court.
- Initial appearance and bond hearing: Appear before a magistrate after arrest for bond determination. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court: Enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest. The court will set a trial date if you plead not guilty.
- Discovery and pre-trial motions: Review evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if applicable.
- Trial or plea negotiation: Proceed to bench trial in General District Court or negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor.
- Appeal or sentencing: If convicted in GDC, you can appeal to Fauquier County Circuit Court for a new trial. Otherwise, sentencing follows conviction.
Criminal Penalties in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine; Class 5 felonies 1-10 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Bond amount is set by the magistrate at arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies, with bail bondsmen charging approximately 10%. Public defender eligibility is based on income, with court-appointed attorney fees ranging from $120 for misdemeanors to $445+ for felonies.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and combines over 120 years of attorney experience. The firm has achieved 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline reflects our approach: “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
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 Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Fauquier County: 1 criminal case reduced or amended, achieving a 100% favorable outcome rate for local clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Service
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts (6 Court Street, Warrenton), accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Fauquier County and the Historic Warrenton town center.
We serve the communities of Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
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. Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.