Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
Virginia Criminal Law in Fauquier County
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defining offenses from misdemeanors to felonies. In Fauquier County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fauquier County General District Court located at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings, with felony jury trials occurring in Fauquier County Circuit Court.
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 Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) maintained by the Virginia General Assembly. For Fauquier County court information, visit the Fauquier County General District Court website for hours, forms, and procedures.
Fauquier County Criminal Court Process
The criminal process in Fauquier County begins with arrest or summons, followed by an initial appearance before a magistrate who sets bond conditions. For misdemeanors, personal recognizance release is common for first offenses. Felony cases require a preliminary hearing within 21-60 days to determine probable cause before proceeding to Circuit Court for trial.
- Initial Appearance: Appear before a magistrate for bond determination after arrest.
- Arraignment: Enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest at Fauquier County General District Court.
- Pre-trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural issues.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Proceed to bench trial in General District Court or negotiate a plea agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted in General District Court, you have the right to appeal to Fauquier County Circuit Court for a new trial.
- Post-Conviction Relief: Explore expungement options under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 for eligible dismissals or acquittals.
Fauquier County Criminal Penalties
In Fauquier County, criminal offenses carry significant penalties under Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines, while felonies can result in years of 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, firearm restrictions |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, employment barriers |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for certain suspensions |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, voting rights loss |
| Drug Possession Schedule I/II (Va. Code § 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Substance abuse assessment |
Results may vary. The penalties listed represent maximum statutory penalties; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, prior record, and defense strategy.
Fauquier County Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, bringing over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense cases. Our attorneys include former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper with firsthand knowledge of police procedures and prosecution strategies. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC.
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 Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented criminal defense result in Fauquier County with a 100% favorable outcome rate. Our attorneys have achieved reduced charges, dismissals, and favorable plea agreements for clients facing various criminal allegations in Fauquier County courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Fauquier County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fauquier County courts, accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. We provide criminal defense representation throughout the Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains communities. Contact us 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
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 Criminal Defense Resources
For more information about criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. If you need representation in nearby jurisdictions, consider our Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer or Prince William County criminal defense lawyer services. For related legal matters in Fauquier County, explore our Fauquier County DUI/DWI lawyer or Fauquier County family law lawyer pages. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher’s background and experience.
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.