DUI / DWI Defense Lawyer in Arlington County, Virginia
Virginia DUI/DWI Law in Arlington County
Virginia law defines DUI/DWI as operating a motor vehicle with blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol or drugs (Va. Code § 18.2-266). The statute applies uniformly across Arlington County, with cases heard at Arlington County General District Court.
Last verified: March 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings combined legal experience of 120+ years to DUI defense cases in Arlington County.
Official Virginia DUI Resources
For the complete Virginia DUI statute: Va. Code § 18.2-266 (official Virginia General Assembly).
Arlington County court information: Arlington County General District Court website.
Arlington County DUI Court Process
Arlington County General District Court hears first and second DUI offenses at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. Third DUI within 10 years becomes a Class 6 felony heard in Arlington County Circuit Court.
- Initial court appearance at Arlington County General District Court within 48 hours of arrest
- Review police reports, breath test results, and camera footage with your attorney
- Evaluate defense options including challenging the traffic stop or test administration
- Consider plea negotiations for potential reduction to reckless driving
- Prepare for trial with witness testimony and cross-examination strategies
- Address license issues through restricted license applications if eligible
Arlington County DUI Penalties
In Arlington County, DUI carries penalties ranging from Class 1 misdemeanor to Class 6 felony depending on offense number and BAC level.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First DUI | Class 1 misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | $250 minimum | 12-month revocation | Mandatory VASAP |
| First DUI (BAC 0.15-0.20) | Class 1 misdemeanor | 5 days mandatory | $250 minimum | 12-month revocation | VASAP + ignition interlock |
| First DUI (BAC 0.20+) | Class 1 misdemeanor | 10 days mandatory | $250 minimum | 12-month revocation | VASAP + ignition interlock |
| Second DUI (within 5 years) | Class 1 misdemeanor | 20 days mandatory | $500 minimum | 3-year revocation | VASAP + ignition interlock |
| Third DUI (within 10 years) | Class 6 felony | 90 days mandatory | $1,000 minimum | Indefinite revocation | VASAP + felony record |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts and circumstances.
Filing fees and costs: VASAP enrollment approximately $300, restricted license application $40 at DMV, ignition interlock installation approximately $100 plus $70-$100/month maintenance, court costs approximately $62, towing and impound fees $150-$500+.
DUI Defense Experience in Arlington County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years of combined legal experience to Arlington County DUI cases. Founded in 1997, the firm has documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate.
Our Arlington County DUI defense is led by former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block, who brings 15 years of law enforcement experience to case analysis and defense strategy.
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
Arlington County DUI Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 115 total documented case results across all practice areas in Arlington County with 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Arlington County DUI Lawyer Near You
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at Arlington County courts. We represent clients throughout Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a first DUI in Arlington County, Virginia?
First DUI in Arlington County: Class 1 misdemeanor — up to 12 months jail, $250 minimum fine, 12-month license revocation, mandatory VASAP. BAC 0.15-0.20: mandatory 5 days jail. BAC 0.20+: mandatory 10 days. Cases at Arlington County General District Court.
Is a DUI a felony in Arlington County, Virginia?
First/second DUI in Arlington County is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Third DUI within 10 years is a Class 6 felony (1-5 years, mandatory 90 days jail, indefinite revocation). Cases at Arlington County General District Court.
What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer in Arlington County, Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-268.3, refusal triggers: first offense — 12-month administrative suspension (no restricted license); second — 3-year suspension plus Class 1 misdemeanor. This runs also to DUI penalties.
Can a DUI be reduced in Arlington County, Virginia?
Yes. A DUI in Arlington County can potentially be reduced to reckless driving, which avoids mandatory license revocation and VASAP. Defense strategies include challenging the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breath test calibration.
How long does a DUI case take in Arlington County?
Arraignment occurs within 48 hours of arrest. General District Court trial typically occurs 30-90 days from arraignment. Appeals to Circuit Court must be filed within 10 days of GDC conviction.
Related Legal Services
Virginia DUI Lawyer | Alexandria DUI Lawyer | Arlington Criminal Defense Lawyer | Arlington Reckless Driving Lawyer
Attorney profile: Kristen Fisher | Location: Arlington Law Location
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.