Robbery Lawyer Alexandria — What Are Your Defense Options?
Robbery in Alexandria is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A conviction creates a permanent violent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for robbery charges in Alexandria General District and Circuit Courts. Our robbery lawyer Alexandria team includes former prosecutors with deep local experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Alexandria General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person, or from their immediate presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. This is a Class 5 felony, but due to its violent nature, it carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, with a maximum potential sentence of life. The use of a firearm or other weapon elevates the charge to armed robbery under § 18.2-58, which carries even more severe penalties.
In Alexandria, these cases are prosecuted aggressively by the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s Office. The case begins with an arrest and an initial appearance at the Alexandria General District Court for a bond hearing and to set a date for a preliminary hearing. If probable cause is found at the preliminary hearing, the case is certified to the Alexandria Circuit Court for a potential jury trial.
Key Alexandria Court Procedures for Robbery Charges
Understanding the local court process is critical. Alexandria General District Court, located at 520 King Street, handles the initial stages, including bond hearings and preliminary hearings. The Alexandria Circuit Court then takes over for felony trials. Prosecutors in Alexandria routinely seek substantial prison time for robbery convictions. Early intervention by a skilled robbery lawyer Alexandria is essential to challenge the evidence of “violence or intimidation” and to negotiate for reduced charges where possible.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate for a bond determination, then have an initial hearing in Alexandria General District Court.
- Preliminary Hearing: The Commonwealth must show probable cause that a robbery occurred. This is a key stage to challenge the evidence.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Alexandria Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will obtain all evidence (discovery) and file pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases are resolved through negotiation. If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Alexandria
In Alexandria, a robbery conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-58 is a Class 5 felony with a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison and a potential maximum of life.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery | Class 5 Felony | 5 years to life* | Up to $2,500 | Permanent violent felony record; loss of firearm rights; difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Armed Robbery | Class 5 Felony (enhanced) | Mandatory minimum 5 years, up to life | Up to $2,500 | Same as above, with mandatory active time if a firearm is used. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Alexandria Robbery Defense Team
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 track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that a robbery charge is not just a legal problem but a life-altering event. Our approach is to build a case-specific defense from the moment you contact us, focusing on the weaknesses in the prosecution’s evidence, such as mistaken identity, lack of evidence of violence, or questionable police procedures.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides a unique advantage in cases involving financial evidence or complex facts.
Case Results & Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm’s extensive experience includes favorable resolutions in serious felony matters. We have successfully argued for reduced charges, case dismissals based on procedural errors, and favorable plea agreements that avoid the most severe penalties. For example, we have negotiated amendments from robbery to lesser larceny charges in cases where the element of violence or intimidation was weak.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Alexandria, VA
Our Arlington location serves clients facing charges at the Alexandria courts. We represent individuals in Alexandria, Old Town, Del Ray, and Kingstowne. 24/7 phone consultations are available — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Arlington
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Charges in Alexandria
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Robbery involves taking property by violence or intimidation. Armed robbery involves using a firearm or other displayed weapon during the crime, which triggers mandatory minimum prison sentences under Va. Code § 18.2-58.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. While robbery itself is always a felony, a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Alexandria may negotiate an amendment to a misdemeanor larceny or assault charge if the evidence for violence or intimidation is weak. This is a common defense strategy to avoid felony penalties.
What should I do if I am arrested for robbery in Alexandria?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a robbery lawyer Alexandria as soon as possible to begin building your defense, starting with the bond hearing.
How long does a robbery case take in Alexandria?
A robbery case can take several months to over a year. The preliminary hearing in General District Court is typically within a few months of arrest. If certified to Circuit Court, the process for discovery, motions, and potential trial can extend the timeline significantly.
Do I need a specific armed robbery defense lawyer Alexandria?
Yes. Armed robbery charges carry severe mandatory penalties. You need an attorney with specific experience defending against firearm allegations and negotiating with prosecutors to mitigate these harsh consequences.
For more information on Virginia criminal law, visit the Virginia Courts website.
Internal Resources: Learn more about our Virginia criminal defense practice, or read about related issues like Alexandria DUI defense. For cases in a neighboring area, see our Arlington criminal lawyer page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.