Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Fauquier County
Virginia classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies, with specific penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Fauquier County, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Fauquier County General District Court located at 6 Court Street in Warrenton. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, provides experienced criminal defense representation throughout Fauquier County.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Virginia General Assembly website: Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For Fauquier County court information, visit the official Virginia court website: Fauquier County General District Court.
Fauquier County Criminal Court Process
Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Fauquier County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from General District Court decisions. Defendants have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time.
How to Handle a Criminal Case in Fauquier County
- After arrest, a magistrate sets bond at the Fauquier County Adult Detention Center. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Your first court appearance is arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court, where you enter a plea and receive a trial date.
- For misdemeanors, trial occurs in General District Court before a judge. For felonies, a preliminary hearing determines if evidence supports Circuit Court transfer.
- If convicted in General District Court, you have 10 days to appeal to Fauquier County Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Felony trials proceed in Circuit Court before a jury, with sentencing under Virginia’s sentencing guidelines.
- For acquittals or dismissals, file an expungement petition in Circuit Court under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 to clear your record.
Fauquier County Criminal Penalties
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fines, while Class 5 felonies carry 1-10 years imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, no contact with victim |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent criminal record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) 1-5 years (Class 6) |
Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution, probation |
| Drug Possession (Va. Code § 18.2-250) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | Substance abuse assessment, treatment |
Results may vary. Each case depends on specific facts and circumstances.
Experience in Fauquier County Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings combined legal experience of over 120 years to criminal defense cases in Fauquier County. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our tagline “Global advocacy. Local precision” reflects our approach to Fauquier County criminal matters.
In Fauquier County, we have 1 documented criminal defense result with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal proceedings.
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Fauquier County Criminal Defense Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Fauquier County: 1 case reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for our Fauquier County criminal defense practice.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts (6 Court Street, Warrenton), accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. As a criminal defense lawyer near Warrenton and surrounding communities, we provide convenient representation for Fauquier County residents.
We serve Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains in Fauquier County. Available for 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Fauquier 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 Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fauquier County, Virginia?
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 Fauquier County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in Fauquier County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Fauquier County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fauquier County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Fauquier County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 1 documented results: 1 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fauquier County?
Fauquier County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fauquier 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information about criminal defense throughout Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page.
If you need criminal defense in nearby areas, consider our attorneys in Fairfax County, Prince William County, and Manassas.
For other legal needs in Fauquier County, we also handle DUI/DWI defense, family law matters, and reckless driving charges.
Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background and experience.
Visit our Fairfax location page for directions and appointment information.
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.