Misprision Of A Felony Lawyer Arlington Virginia — What Are Your Defenses?
Misprision of a felony is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 4, punishable by up to three years in prison and a fine. If you are under investigation or have been charged in Arlington, Virginia, you need a misprision of a felony lawyer Arlington Virginia with federal experience. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Misprision of a Felony Under Federal Law?
Misprision of a felony is a unique federal crime defined in 18 U.S.C. § 4. It is not simply failing to report a crime. The statute makes it an offense for someone who has knowledge of the actual commission of a felony cognizable by a U.S. court to conceal it and fail to make it known to a judge or other authority. The government must prove you had full knowledge of a completed felony, took an affirmative step to conceal it, and did not notify authorities. This charge is distinct from being an accessory after the fact, which involves assisting the felon. A misprision of a felony lawyer Arlington Virginia can analyze whether the government’s evidence meets this high legal standard.
Last verified: April 2026 | Federal Courts for the Eastern District of Virginia | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Understanding the law is critical. You can review the federal statute at the official U.S. Code website: 18 U.S.C. § 4 (official U.S. Code). Federal cases in Arlington are typically heard in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, Alexandria Division.
Local Federal Court Process for Misprision Charges in Arlington
Federal charges follow a strict procedural path. Investigations are often conducted by agencies like the FBI, DEA, or IRS. If charged, your initial appearance and arraignment will be at the federal courthouse in Alexandria. The Speedy Trial Act sets strict deadlines, but complex cases can take over a year to resolve. The federal sentencing guidelines heavily influence potential penalties if convicted.
- Initial Investigation: Federal agents may contact you for an interview. Do not speak to them without your criminal attorney present.
- Charging & Initial Appearance: After an indictment or criminal complaint, you will be summoned or arrested for an initial hearing before a magistrate judge.
- Arraignment & Plea: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty, allowing your defense lawyer to begin discovery and motions.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions to challenge evidence, seek dismissal, or clarify legal issues.
- Plea Negotiations or Trial: Most federal cases end in a plea agreement. If not, your case proceeds to a jury trial in U.S. District Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines, which a judge has discretion to apply.
Potential Penalties for Misprision of a Felony
In Arlington, Virginia, a federal conviction for misprision of a felony under 18 U.S.C. § 4 carries a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison and a fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Misprision of a Felony | Federal Crime | Up to 3 years | Court-determined | Federal criminal record, loss of certain civil rights, professional licensing issues. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Federal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our firm has a documented record of handling complex federal matters. We understand the immense pressure of a federal investigation and provide clear, strategic guidance from the first call.
Case Results in Federal and Criminal Defense
Our attorneys have successfully defended clients against a wide range of federal and state charges. For example, in Arlington County, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges such as destruction of property and fare evasion in the General District Court. While every case is unique, these results demonstrate our commitment to vigorous defense. Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney for complex federal and criminal defense in the DC area is Matthew Greene. With over 30 years of experience, including a former contract with Child Protective Services in Alexandria, he brings deep insight into high-stakes cases.
Contact Our Arlington Location for Federal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Arlington Location — 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Our Arlington location serves clients facing federal charges and is positioned to represent you at the U.S. District Court in Alexandria. We serve Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. As a federal criminal defense lawyer near Arlington, we offer 24/7 phone consultations — call (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Misprision of a Felony Lawyer Arlington Virginia FAQ
What is the penalty for misprision of a felony in Virginia?
It is a federal crime, not a state crime. The penalty under 18 U.S.C. § 4 is up to three years in federal prison and a possible fine.
Do I need a lawyer if I’m only being investigated for misprision?
Yes. If federal agents want to interview you, you need a criminal attorney immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. A lawyer can advise you on your rights, help you avoid self-incrimination, and potentially negotiate your cooperation before formal charges are filed.
What’s the difference between misprision and being an accessory?
Misprision involves concealing knowledge of a completed felony. Being an accessory after the fact involves actively assisting the felon to avoid arrest or punishment after the crime. The charges and defenses are different, requiring a defense lawyer familiar with both.
Can misprision charges be dropped?
It depends. Charges may be dropped or reduced through pre-trial negotiations, especially if your attorney can show a lack of intent to conceal or that you had no duty to report. A strong defense can also lead to dismissal by the court if the evidence is insufficient.
How long does a federal misprision case take?
While the Speedy Trial Act requires trial within 70 days of indictment, delays are common. A typical federal case can take 6 to 18 months from charge to resolution, depending on complexity, evidence, and whether a plea agreement is reached.
Related Practice Areas: For other legal needs in Arlington, consider our DUI lawyer or business lawyer services.
Locations We Serve: We also assist clients in nearby jurisdictions like Alexandria.
Learn More: For an overview of our federal practice, visit our Virginia federal criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: 2026-04. The information on this page is for general informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance regarding your specific situation.