Criminal Defense Lawyer in Washington, D.C., Washington DC
Washington, D.C. criminal charges under D.C. Code Title 22 carry penalties from 180 days to 10+ years in jail; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Washington, D.C. with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutors provide full representation for assault, theft, drug, and weapons cases at DC Superior Court. By appointment only.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Law Statutes
Criminal offenses in Washington, D.C. are defined under D.C. Code Title 22 (Criminal Offenses and Penalties). This local code is unique because it is prosecuted by federal prosecutors from the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia (USAO-DC), not a local district attorney. DC’s hybrid federal-local system means all criminal cases are heard at DC Superior Court, a local court that operates under federal oversight.
Last verified: March 2026 | DC Superior Court | D.C. Code
Official Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Washington, D.C. criminal statutes, refer to the D.C. Code Title 22 (official D.C. Council). Court procedures and forms are available from the DC Superior Court website.
DC Superior Court Criminal Procedure
The DC Superior Court Criminal Division at 500 Indiana Avenue NW handles all local criminal cases. DC uses the Pretrial Services Agency (a federal agency) for release decisions instead of traditional cash bail. The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) makes arrests, and the Public Defender Service for DC provides indigent defense.
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: After arrest by MPD, you’ll appear at DC Superior Court within 24 hours for an initial hearing where release conditions are set by the Pretrial Services Agency.
- Review Charges and Evidence: The U.S. Attorney’s Office for DC (USAO-DC) will file formal charges. Your attorney obtains discovery to review evidence against you.
- Preliminary Hearing or Grand Jury: For felonies, the case proceeds to a preliminary hearing or grand jury indictment. Misdemeanors move directly to trial scheduling.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Negotiations: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges. Negotiations with federal prosecutors may lead to reduced charges or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If no plea agreement is reached, your case proceeds to bench or jury trial at DC Superior Court. Most cases resolve before trial.
- Sentencing or Record Sealing: If convicted, sentencing follows federal guidelines. If acquitted or dismissed, you may petition to seal your record under D.C. Code § 16-803.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Penalties
In Washington, D.C., criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from 180 days to 10+ years incarceration depending on the charge classification and specific circumstances of the case.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Up to $1,000 | None | Criminal record |
| Assault with Dangerous Weapon | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | None | Enhanced penalties if against officer |
| Carrying Pistol Without License | Felony | Up to 5 years | Court discretion | Firearms rights loss | Mandatory minimum for prior convictions |
| Theft 1st Degree (over $1,000) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | None | Restitution required |
| Theft 2nd Degree | Misdemeanor | Up to 180 days | Court discretion | None | Criminal record |
| Unauthorized Use of Vehicle | Felony | Up to 5 years | Court discretion | Driver’s license suspension possible | Restitution for damages |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Washington, D.C. Criminal Defense Experience
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to Washington, D.C. criminal cases. Our firm has achieved 4,739+ favorable outcomes firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We provide full representation with a case-specific approach for each client’s unique situation.
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/not guilty for a 100% favorable outcome rate in 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, Foggy Bottom, Navy Yard, Petworth, Brookland, Anacostia, Southwest Waterfront, 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.
Related Legal Services
For other legal matters in Washington, D.C., consider our Washington, D.C. family law lawyer, Washington, D.C. personal injury lawyer, or Washington, D.C. immigration lawyer. For more criminal defense resources, visit our DC criminal defense lawyer hub page.
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.