Criminal Defense in Virginia

Virginia classifies crimes into six felony classes (Class 1 through Class 6) and four misdemeanor classes. Class 1 misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine, with defense costs of $2,500-$6,000. Felony defense ranges from $6,000-$55,000 depending on severity. Virginia has mandatory minimum sentences for many violent felonies and drug distribution charges near schools. The state abolished parole in 1995, meaning defendants serve at least 85% of their sentences. Virginia's "three strikes" law imposes life imprisonment for third violent felony conviction. The state has implemented criminal justice reforms including automatic expungement for certain acquittals and dismissals. Fairfax County has one of the most active criminal dockets in the state given its large population. Federal cases in the Eastern District of Virginia ("Rocket Docket") move extremely fast, requiring immediate attorney engagement.