The Code of Virginia specifies the general rules regarding who qualifies for bail and under what circumstances. Individuals are generally eligible for bail unless the court determines they're a danger to themselves and/or the public or a potential flight risk.
Only a prosecutor handling the case can request a dismissal of the charges. Only the Court has the authority to dismiss, or "drop" charges. However, the prosecutor handling the case will want to speak with you to talk about the case and what you would like to see happen to the person charged.
This can seem like a relief—receiving a ticket to appear in court instead of being arrested and booked into jail. However, don't be misled into thinking that a summons is less serious than an arrest. A court summons is essentially an arrest without the physical booking process.
In a criminal court context, the note "Released on Summons" generally means that the person was not formally arrested and booked into jail but instead received a summons to appear in court at a later date.
Throwing a Drink at Someone Can Be a Crime Under the laws of most states, causing intentional and offensive physical contact with another person can be punished as a form of assault or battery.
Examples of Virginia's Criminal Statutes of Limitations OffenseStatute Misdemeanor arson (“burning or destroying”): 1 year Felony arson: No time limit Va. Code § 19.2-8 (2024) Misdemeanor assault and battery: 1 year Felony assault and battery: No time limit Va. Code § 19.2-8 (2024) Burglary: No time limit 9 more rows •
The basic version of assault and battery is covered under Virginia Code section 18.2-57, which says that a person who commits a simple assault or assault and battery is guilty of a Class 1 Misdemeanor. The maximum punishment for this offense is one year in jail and $2500.
Battery (called Assault and Battery) is the completed act – the unlawful touching of another done in a rude, angry or vengeful way, even if it caused no actual injury. Assault (called Simple Assault) is either an attempted Battery or placing someone in reasonable fear of a Battery.
Fairfax, VA, is generally considered a safe place to live and work. It has a lower crime rate compared to the national average, particularly in violent crimes. However, like any city, safety can vary by neighborhood and time.
Our city is widely known for outstanding cultural amenities. Every year the city sponsors world-class events such as Fall for the Book, Spotlight on the Arts, and a fun weekend-long Chocolate Lovers Festival.