Fairfax Criminal Law
Get legal help with Fairfax criminal law
Jonathan Y. Short, P.C. prepares effective defense for cases that involve Fairfax criminal law. Cases basically break down under federal and state jurisdiction, categorized as felonies and misdemeanors.
Federal crimes
The federal government oversees federal crimes which are tried in federal district courts. Federal crimes may deal with violations of the U.S. Constitution, crimes crossing state lines, and other criminal activities that fall under federal jurisdiction, such as:
- Smuggling controlled substances
- Internet crimes
- Narcotic conspiracy cases
- Bank robbery
- Pornography cases
- Bank fraud
- Mail crimes (theft/fraud)
- Public official bribery
- Interstate crimes
- Crimes on federal land
- Federal income tax evasion
State crimes
For the most part, Fairfax criminal law falls under the State of Virginia’s jurisdiction over state crimes. Depending on whether the crime is a misdemeanor or felony, the following courts hear matters in the state legal system:
- Magistrates hear minor misdemeanor cases and also conduct bond hearings for criminal cases.
- State District Courts hear misdemeanor cases that carry penalties of up to one year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. They also hear traffic infraction cases and preliminary hearings for felony cases where crimes are punishable by imprisonment greater than one year.
- Juvenile and Domestic Relations District courts hear juvenile criminal cases unless the juvenile is being tried as an adult.
- Circuit courts hear all felony cases and misdemeanor offenses originated by grand jury indictments or appealed from district courts.
State crimes include:
- The Court of Appeals reviews circuit court final decisions that are being appealed.
- The Virginia Supreme Court reviews decisions from lower courts and also hears matters where it has original jurisdiction.
If you have been charged with a criminal offense, attorney Jonathan Y. Short can explain how Fairfax criminal law affects the weight of charges and which court would hear your case.
Arrange a consultation to discuss your Fairfax criminal law issue with Jonathan Y. Short, P.C.
Criminal charges can have serious repercussions. Get your questions answered and plan your defense as soon as possible. Call 703-465-5505 or contact us online today to arrange a confidential, no obligation consultation.