Criminal Defense Lawyer in Washington, D.C., Washington DC
In Washington, D.C., criminal charges under D.C. Code Title 22 carry serious penalties including jail time and fines; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in D.C. with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutors understand the unique federal-local hybrid system where the U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecutes D.C. Code violations at DC Superior Court.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Law Statutes
Criminal offenses in Washington, D.C. are defined under D.C. Code Title 22 (Criminal Offenses and Penalties) and prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC), not a local district attorney. This creates a unique jurisdictional structure where local crimes are handled by federal prosecutors in DC Superior Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code Title 22
Official Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of D.C. criminal statutes, refer to the D.C. Code Title 22 (official D.C. Council). Court information, forms, and procedures are available at the DC Superior Court website.
DC Superior Court Criminal Procedure
DC Superior Court Criminal Division at 500 Indiana Avenue NW handles all local criminal cases. The Pretrial Services Agency, a federal agency, conducts risk assessments and recommends release conditions instead of traditional cash bail for most offenses.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: After arrest by Metropolitan Police Department (MPD), you appear before a judge at DC Superior Court within 24 hours for an initial hearing where release conditions are set by the Pretrial Services Agency.
- Review of Charges: The U.S. Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC) reviews the police report and decides whether to file formal charges under D.C. Code Title 22.
- Status Hearing: A status hearing is scheduled where your attorney can negotiate with the federal prosecutor, review evidence, and discuss potential resolutions.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, the case proceeds to trial before a judge or jury at DC Superior Court, with sentencing following conviction.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Penalties
In Washington, D.C., criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from 180 days to 10 years incarceration depending on the specific charge and classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | Criminal record |
| Assault with Dangerous Weapon | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | Firearms restrictions |
| Carrying Pistol Without License | Felony | Up to 5 years | Court discretion | Mandatory minimums may apply |
| Theft 1st Degree (over $1,000) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | Restitution required |
| Unauthorized Use of Vehicle | Felony | Up to 5 years | Court discretion | Vehicle forfeiture possible |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ firm-wide case results, our attorneys include former prosecutors who understand both sides of criminal cases. Mr. Sris maintains a background in accounting and information systems that provides advantage in complex financial cases.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Washington, D.C.: 1 case dismissed or not guilty, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
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, and surrounding communities.
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.
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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.