In Fredericksburg, Virginia, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 documented case results in Fredericksburg. A Securities Fraud lawyer Fredericksburg can help you understand your options. Contact us today.
Understanding Criminal Charges in Fredericksburg
Virginia law classifies criminal offenses into misdemeanors and felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 6 felony, like grand larceny over $1,000 under Va. Code § 18.2-95, carries 1-5 years in prison. The Fredericksburg General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Fredericksburg prosecutes these cases. An investment fraud defense lawyer Fredericksburg can assist with complex financial cases. An SEC violation lawyer Fredericksburg handles federal securities matters.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fredericksburg General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For official court information, visit the Fredericksburg General District Court website. Review the full Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) for complete statutory details.
Insider Procedural Edge: Fredericksburg General District Court
In Fredericksburg General District Court, prosecutors routinely offer first-offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2. Successful completion results in dismissal of charges. This program is available for many first-time misdemeanor offenses.
- Arrest and initial appearance before magistrate for bond determination.
- Arraignment at Fredericksburg General District Court within 72 hours.
- Discovery phase where prosecutor shares evidence with defense.
- Pre-trial motions and plea negotiations with Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial in General District Court or preliminary hearing for felony cases.
- Appeal to Fredericksburg Circuit Court if needed within 10 days.
In Fredericksburg, criminal charges carry penalties from fines to prison time. The table below outlines common classifications and consequences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny (§ 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Fredericksburg Criminal Case?
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm has achieved 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
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 Fredericksburg
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 6 total documented case results across all practice areas in Fredericksburg, with an 83% favorable outcome rate. Firm-wide, the firm has achieved 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Fredericksburg Criminal Defense Services
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Fredericksburg courts (701 Princess Anne St), accessible via I-95, Route 1, Route 3, and Route 17. We serve Fredericksburg and surrounding communities including Historic Downtown Fredericksburg, University of Mary Washington, and the VRE Station area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Fredericksburg
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors carry up to 6 months and $1,000. Cases are heard at Fredericksburg General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
Yes. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Fredericksburg General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Fredericksburg, Virginia?
Yes. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases at Fredericksburg General District Court. Legal representation is strongly recommended.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Fredericksburg?
Fredericksburg General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Fredericksburg Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have a right to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Related pages: Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fredericksburg DUI Lawyer | Fredericksburg Family Law Lawyer