Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law Definition
Virginia criminal law covers offenses from misdemeanors to felonies, defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors are less serious crimes with jail up to 12 months, while felonies can result in prison sentences of one year or more. The specific elements of each crime—such as intent, action, and result—are detailed in the state code.
Last verified: March 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. The Fauquier County General District Court website provides local rules, forms, and contact information.
Fauquier County Court Process
Your criminal case in Fauquier County begins with an arrest or summons. The Fauquier County General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Felony jury trials and appeals happen at Fauquier County Circuit Court.
- Attend your arraignment at Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton) to hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to review the evidence against you.
- Discuss potential defenses and negotiation options with your attorney, such as reduced charges or first-offender programs.
- Prepare for and attend your trial in General District Court or, for felonies, your preliminary hearing followed by Circuit Court proceedings.
- If convicted, explore post-trial options like appeals or expungement petitions where applicable.
Criminal Penalties in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the classification under Virginia law.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our team brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense cases in Fauquier County. We focus on building strong defense strategies based on the details of your situation.
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
Case Results in Fauquier County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented result in Fauquier County: 1 case reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for this locality.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Services
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. As a criminal defense lawyer near Warrenton, we represent clients throughout Fauquier County including Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
(703) 636-5417
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. 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 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) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
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. Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information about criminal defense across Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer and Prince William County criminal defense lawyer. In Fauquier County, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law cases. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.