Criminal Defense Lawyer in Washington, D.C., Washington DC
What Is Criminal Law in Washington, D.C.?
Criminal law in Washington, D.C. is defined by the D.C. Code, a set of local laws prosecuted by federal authorities. Unlike states, DC has no local district attorney; the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC) handles all prosecutions for offenses ranging from simple assault to felony theft. This creates a unique legal field where federal prosecutors apply local statutes.
Last verified: March 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of DC criminal laws, refer to the D.C. Code Title 22 (Criminal Offenses and Penalties) (official DC Council website). Court procedures and forms are available at the DC Superior Court website.
DC Superior Court Criminal Process
DC Superior Court Criminal Division at 500 Indiana Avenue NW handles all local criminal cases. The Pretrial Services Agency, a federal entity, assesses defendants and recommends release conditions instead of traditional cash bail. This system focuses on risk, not financial ability.
- Initial Appearance: You will appear before a judge at DC Superior Court within 24 hours of arrest for an initial hearing.
- Pretrial Services Assessment: The Pretrial Services Agency will interview you and recommend release conditions to the court.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of guilty or not guilty.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney will review evidence from the U.S. Attorney’s Office and file pretrial motions.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Your case will proceed to trial or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Penalties
In Washington, D.C., criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from 180 days in jail for simple assault to 10 years or more for felony theft or assault with a dangerous weapon.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | None | Criminal record |
| Assault with a Dangerous Weapon | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | None | Violent crime record |
| Theft 1st Degree (over $1,000) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | None | Restitution |
| Carrying a Pistol Without a License | Felony | Up to 5 years | Court discretion | None | Weapons prohibition |
| Unauthorized Use of a Vehicle | Felony | Up to 5 years | Court discretion | Driver’s license suspension possible | Restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case details.
Our Experience in DC Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented result in Washington, D.C. with a 100% favorable outcome rate for our clients. Our team includes attorneys who understand the intricacies of the federal-local hybrid system in DC.
Case Results in Washington, D.C.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Washington, D.C.: 1 dismissed/not guilty — a 100% favorable outcome rate for our clients in this jurisdiction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Washington, D.C.
Our Arlington location is approximately 3 miles from DC Superior Court, accessible via I-395, I-66, and I-295. We serve clients throughout the Washington, D.C. area including Georgetown, Capitol Hill, Dupont Circle, Adams Morgan, Columbia Heights, U Street, Logan Circle, Foggy Bottom, Navy Yard, Petworth, Brookland, Anacostia, Southwest Waterfront, Woodley Park, Cleveland Park, Spring Valley, Forest Hills, Chevy Chase DC, American University Park, Wesley Heights, Bloomingdale, Tenleytown, Friendship Heights, Glover Park, Mount Pleasant, Shaw, Chinatown/Penn Quarter, NoMa, Ivy City, Eckington, Deanwood, Hillcrest, Congress Heights, Barracks Row, and Eastern Market.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who prosecutes criminal cases in Washington, D.C.?
Criminal cases in DC are prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC), not a local DA. DC is federal territory where local crimes under D.C. Code are prosecuted by federal prosecutors. All cases heard at DC Superior Court (500 Indiana Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001). DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency instead of cash bail. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Does DC have cash bail?
No. DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency (a federal agency) to assess risk and recommend release conditions — not cash bail. Most defendants are released without posting money. Cases heard at DC Superior Court (500 Indiana Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001). Expungement (record sealing) available under D.C. Code § 16-803. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can I get my DC criminal record sealed?
Yes. DC allows record sealing under D.C. Code § 16-803 for acquittals, dismissals, and qualifying convictions after waiting periods. Marijuana offenses have expanded sealing eligibility. Petitions filed at DC Superior Court. 1 documented results: 1 dismissed/not guilty (100% favorable outcome rate)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Washington, D.C., DC?
Yes. Criminal charges in Washington, D.C. carry serious consequences including jail time, fines, and a permanent record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has former prosecutors on staff. Consultation by appointment — (888) 437-7747.
Related Legal Services
For other legal needs in Washington, D.C., visit our DC Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. If you are facing federal charges, our Washington, D.C. Federal Criminal Lawyer can help. For family law matters, see our Washington, D.C. Family Law Lawyer. Learn more about Matthew Greene’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.