Virginia Felony Laws Fairfax: What You Need to Know About Your Criminal Charges
Facing felony charges under Virginia felony laws Fairfax means you are accused of a serious crime with severe penalties. A Class 5 felony can carry 1-10 years in prison, while a Class 6 felony carries 1-5 years. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Fairfax County General District and Circuit Courts. Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately to protect your rights.
Understanding Felony Charges Under Virginia Law
In Virginia, felonies are the most serious category of crimes, classified by the potential prison sentence. The Virginia General Assembly defines felonies in Title 18.2 of the Code of Virginia. Unlike misdemeanors, which are typically handled in General District Court, felony charges begin with a preliminary hearing in General District Court before potentially moving to a jury trial in Circuit Court. The classification system determines the range of punishment a judge or jury can impose upon conviction.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia Legislature
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the Virginia Criminal Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures and locations can be found on the Fairfax County General District Court website.
The Fairfax County Felony Process: An Insider’s View
handling Virginia felony laws Fairfax requires understanding the local court process. After an arrest, a magistrate sets a bond hearing. The case then proceeds to Fairfax County General District Court for a preliminary hearing, where the Commonwealth must show probable cause. If bound over, the case moves to Fairfax County Circuit Court for arraignment, pre-trial motions, and potentially a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office prosecutes these cases aggressively.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be brought before a magistrate for a bond determination.
- Preliminary Hearing: A hearing in Fairfax County General District Court to determine if there is probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: In Fairfax County Circuit Court, you will be formally advised of the felony charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial & Motions: Your attorney will file motions, review discovery, and negotiate with the prosecution.
- Trial or Plea: The case proceeds to a jury trial or is resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, a separate sentencing hearing will determine the final penalty.
Penalties for Felonies in Fairfax County
In Fairfax County, felonies under Virginia law carry significant prison time, substantial fines, and long-term consequences including loss of civil rights.
| Felony Class | Prison Range | Maximum Fine | Examples (Va. Code) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 6 | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | $2,500 | Assault & Battery of a Law Officer (§ 18.2-57(C)) |
| Class 5 | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | $2,500 | Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) |
| Class 4 | 2-10 years | $100,000 | Felony Drug Distribution (§ 18.2-248) |
| Class 3 | 5-20 years | $100,000 | Malicious Wounding (§ 18.2-51) |
| Class 2 | 20 years to life | $100,000 | Murder (2nd degree) (§ 18.2-32) |
| Class 1 | Life imprisonment or death | $100,000 | Capital Murder (§ 18.2-31) |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Additional Consequences: A felony conviction results in the permanent loss of the right to vote, serve on a jury, and possess firearms. It can also severely impact employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Fairfax Felony Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results. We understand the high stakes of felony charges and provide a focused, strategic defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation in Fairfax County and beyond.
Documented Case Experience
In Fairfax County, our attorneys have handled a wide range of felony matters. We have 501 documented criminal case results in this jurisdiction, including 336 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 143 charges reduced or amended. For example, our team has secured favorable outcomes in cases involving charges like obtaining money under false pretenses, where felony charges were reduced to misdemeanors.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney for complex Virginia criminal defense is Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice and a background in accounting that aids in financial cases.
Fairfax County Felony Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are accessible to communities including Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Virginia Felony Laws Fairfax
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fairfax 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 Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fairfax County, Virginia?
It depends. 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 Fairfax County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fairfax County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fairfax County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fairfax 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 Fairfax County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Fairfax County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 501 documented results: 336 dismissed/not guilty, 143 reduced/amended, 5 other favorable (97% 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 Fairfax County?
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fairfax 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. Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030) is the GDC location.
Internal Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Fairfax City and Falls Church. If you are facing related charges, explore our pages on DUI defense in Fairfax or reckless driving.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding Virginia felony laws Fairfax, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a consultation.