What happens at a criminal arraignment in Alexandria
If you have been arrested and are scheduled for a criminal arraignment in Alexandria, Virginia, the most important thing to know is that an arraignment is your first official appearance before a judge. At the Alexandria General District Court, located at 520 King Street, 2nd Floor, Alexandria, VA 22320, the arraignment is where the court will advise you of the charges against you, inform you of your right to an attorney, and take your initial plea. The judge will also address bail or bond conditions at this hearing. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals at arraignments throughout Alexandria and can guide you through each step of the process. To speak with an attorney, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What to Expect at Your Arraignment in Alexandria, Virginia
In Alexandria, a criminal arraignment follows a predictable sequence. After you are called forward, the judge will read the charges from the warrant or indictment so you understand exactly what you are accused of. You will then be asked whether you have an attorney or need one appointed. If you qualify for a court-appointed lawyer, the judge will determine your eligibility based on your financial situation. The court will also enter your plea—ordinarily “not guilty” at this stage—and set future court dates, including a trial date or preliminary hearing for felony cases. For misdemeanors, the case may be scheduled for trial within a few weeks; for felonies, a preliminary hearing in General District Court typically follows within a matter of weeks, after which the case may be bound over to Alexandria Circuit Court for further proceedings.
During the arraignment, the magistrate or judge will also address your release status. Bond may be set based on factors such as the severity of the alleged offense, your ties to the community, and your prior record. Personal recognizance—release without payment—is often granted for first-offense misdemeanors. For more serious charges or if you are considered a flight risk, a secured bond may be imposed, requiring a bail bondsman. It is critical to have a defense attorney present at this stage because the conditions of your release and the framing of the charges can significantly influence the rest of your case. The court at 520 King Street handles these matters Monday through Friday during business hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Alexandria, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Alexandria carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2 misdemeanors are punishable by up to 6 months in jail and a $1,000 fine. Common misdemeanors include assault and battery, petit larceny for theft under $1,000, and driving on a suspended license. These cases are heard at Alexandria General District Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive experience handling misdemeanor defense and works to achieve favorable outcomes for clients. For guidance on your specific situation, reach our location at (888) 437-7747.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Alexandria, Virginia?
Yes, Virginia law allows expungement for charges that were dismissed, resulted in an acquittal, or were dropped via nolle prosequi. Under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2, a petition can be filed in Alexandria Circuit Court to remove police and court records related to the charge. Most convictions, however, are not eligible for expungement. Certain first-offense marijuana possession cases may be resolved through a deferred disposition that results in dismissal and, subsequently, eligibility for expungement. To discuss whether your record qualifies, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
How does bail work in Alexandria, Virginia?
Bail is set by a magistrate shortly after arrest and can be reviewed at your arraignment. For many first-offense misdemeanors, the accused is released on personal recognizance, meaning no payment is required. For felonies or when the defendant is considered a flight risk, a secured bond is typical; a bail bondsman typically charges a fee of approximately ten percent of the bond amount. If you cannot afford the bond, your attorney can request a bond review hearing to argue for a lower amount or release on recognizance. The Alexandria General District Court adjudicates bond appeals on a regular schedule.
Do I need a lawyer at my arraignment in Alexandria?
You are not required to have a lawyer at your arraignment, but having one can significantly affect the outcome of the hearing. An experienced defense attorney can advocate for your release on the most favorable terms, ensure that you understand the charges, and begin building your defense strategy immediately. Even a minor misstep at arraignment can have lasting consequences, such as a higher bond or an uninformed plea. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Appears regularly at the Alexandria courthouse and can provide representation from the very first hearing. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
What happens if I miss my arraignment in Alexandria?
If you fail to appear at your scheduled arraignment, the court will likely issue a capias—a bench warrant for your arrest. This can lead to additional charges, revocation of your bond or release conditions, and an immediate arrest. In some cases, your attorney may be able to file a motion to quash the capias and reset the hearing, but this is not guaranteed. You must contact your lawyer right away if you realize you will miss a court date. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can help address a missed arraignment and work to minimize potential penalties.
Will I spend time in jail after my arraignment?
Whether you are held in custody after arraignment depends on the charge, your criminal history, and the bond conditions set by the judge. For many low-level misdemeanors, you will be released on personal recognizance and will not spend any time in jail. For more serious offenses, you may be required to post bond before release. If you are unable to post bond, you will remain in custody until your next court date or until bond conditions are met. Your attorney can argue for the least restrictive release conditions possible.
What is the difference between a felony arraignment and a misdemeanor arraignment in Alexandria?
A misdemeanor arraignment takes place in Alexandria General District Court, where the defendant enters a plea and a trial date is set. A felony arraignment typically begins with a preliminary hearing in General District Court, where a judge determines whether there is enough evidence to send the case to Circuit Court. If the case is bound over, the defendant is then arraigned in Alexandria Circuit Court, where formal charges are presented. Felony cases involve more serious potential penalties and often require a more extensive defense strategy. Early legal intervention is critical in either context.
Can I change my plea after arraignment?
Yes, it is possible to change your plea after arraignment, but the process varies depending on the stage of your case. At arraignment, most defendants plead not guilty. As the case progresses and evidence is exchanged, you may decide to negotiate a plea agreement with the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Any change of plea must be made before the court and with the court’s approval. An attorney can explain the implications of a changed plea and ensure your rights are protected.
How do I find a criminal defense lawyer for my arraignment in Alexandria?
Look for a law firm that appears regularly in Alexandria courts and has experience with criminal defense in Virginia. Check that the attorney is licensed in Virginia and familiar with the Alexandria General District Court’s procedures. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has represented clients in Alexandria for many years; our Arlington location is a short distance from the courthouse. Call (888) 437-7747 to speak with Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel about your arraignment and the steps ahead.
What should I bring to my arraignment?
Bring a form of identification, any paperwork related to your arrest, and contact information for your attorney. If you have already hired counsel, your lawyer will likely instruct you on what else to bring. Do not bring weapons, and dress appropriately for court. Arrive early to check in and find the correct courtroom. If you are unsure about any document or procedure, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. before your hearing date.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., is a former prosecutor who founded the firm in 1997. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and have achieved 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary. The firm’s attorneys have handled thousands of criminal matters, including arraignments, motions hearings, and trials in Alexandria. For a consultation, call (888) 437-7747.
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