Local roots. Prosecutor experience. 1,000+ trials. Fighting smarter and harder for you.

Experienced Criminal Defense Lawyers Serving Northern Virginia

Last updated on May 8, 2026

McClain Rosenthall Davis, PLLC, is uniquely suited to help clients in McLean and Northern Virginia address a wide range of misdemeanor and felony charges. As former prosecutors for the state, our attorneys have insider knowledge of the state’s criminal laws, courts, prosecutors and judges. This insight allows them to stand up for you through the legal processes and fight the charges against you.
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We help clients combat a wide range of criminal charges, from misdemeanors to federal offenses. Our lawyers review and consider every detail of your situation and your goals before developing a strategy for success. Our team regularly practices in Fairfax County, Arlington County, the City of Alexandria, Loudoun County, Prince William County, the Eastern District of Virginia Federal Court, Fauquier County, Frederick/Winchester Courts, Shenandoah County, Spotsylvania and Stafford County, as well as many other jurisdictions.

Our Comprehensive Criminal Law Practice

We provide the aggressive defense representation you need to avoid a conviction or limit the penalties stemming from a conviction. Some of the cases we handle include:

DUI, DWI and traffic offenses: Operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs or driving with a blood alcohol content (BAC) above the limit. We also represent clients facing traffic misdemeanors such as reckless driving and operating a vehicle on a suspended license.
Violent crimes: Violent crime allegations range from misdemeanor assault and battery and domestic violence to life-altering felony charges such as malicious wounding. Our attorneys can litigate high-stakes cases involving robbery, homicide and murder.
Drug offenses: Drug possession charges often involve the simple possession of controlled substances for personal use. More severe charges include drug distribution and trafficking, which may carry mandatory minimum sentences based on the amount and type of the substance
Fraud and white collar crimes: White collar offenses are financially motivated crimes such as embezzlement, prescription fraud and identity theft. We also defend clients against credit card fraud charges and forgery.
Theft crimes: Theft and larceny charges involve the unlawful taking of another person’s property. Burglary is a more serious felony that involves breaking and entering into a building with the intent to commit a crime.
Sex crimes: Allegations of sex offenses carry a social stigma and the potential for sex offender registration. Common charges include possession of child pornography, sexual battery, solicitation and sexual assault.
Other criminal matters: In addition, we handle post-conviction issues including criminal appeals and expungement. Our team also provides counsel for juvenile defense matters, probation violations and bond hearings.

Aggressiveness in the face of opposition isn’t the only thing we focus on. We make sure that you do get caught up in the criminal system. We ensure you are not just another file number.

Your story is important. Your history matters. And we will do everything we can to make sure the prosecution, judge and jury all understand who you are and where you come from.

Domestic Violence – Defense And Victim Representation

Domestic violence cases in Northern Virginia are unique because they sometimes trigger three legal battles at once. A single incident can lead to:

Emergency protective order hearings
Criminal assault charges
Child custody disputes

Our firm provides a comprehensive approach to all of these concerns. We represent defendants facing domestic assault or battery charges as well as victims seeking the protection of a court order. This perspective gives us a complete understanding of the strategies used by both sides. Because we practice both criminal defense and family law, we can offer coordinated representation across every courtroom.

What Sets Us Apart From Other Criminal Defense Attorneys?

Choosing the right lawyer could be the most important decision you can make for your future. We offer a level of advocacy that sets us apart from other options in Northern Virginia:

Beyond public defenders: Unlike public defenders who manage hundreds of files, we provide individualized attention for every client.
The prosecutor advantage: Many general criminal defense attorneys lack a prosecution background. As former Fairfax County prosecutors, we know exactly how the government builds its case against you.
Local jurisdiction knowledge: Out-of-area attorneys do not know the local judges or the specific procedures of Northern Virginia courts. We have deep roots in this region and have professional relationships with current prosecutors.
Trial-ready at all times: We do not simply accept unfavorable plea deals to avoid extra work. Our lawyers have conducted more than 1,000 trials and are always prepared to take your case to a judge or jury.

We sincerely look forward to being of service to you during this challenging time.

Exploring Every Defense Option

If you have been charged with a crime in Northern Virginia, it is important to remember that all is not lost—you have many defense options available to you. Our lawyers will help you explore all viable defense strategies, including:

Court Trial

In some cases, a court trial is the best option for combating the charges against you. Our extensive experience managing jury and bench trials gives us the skills and knowledge needed to clearly state your case and pursue a favorable judgment. From the moment we take your case, we begin preparing for trial.

Plea Negotiation

Depending upon the type and severity of your charges, and your personal goals, it may be in your best interests to attempt to negotiate a plea. Our attorneys are highly skilled in the art of plea negotiations and work diligently to secure the best possible deal on your behalf. If a favorable plea deal cannot be reached, we will pursue more favorable outcomes at trial.

Diversion Programs

First-time offenders charged with misdemeanors and certain criminal violations may qualify for a pre-trial diversion program. Upon successful completion of the pre-trial program, which may include anger management counseling, drug and alcohol abuse counseling or other requirements, the court may elect to dismiss your charges or conviction. To participate in a diversion program, both the prosecutor and judge must approve. Our lawyers understand the potential benefits of diversion programs, most notably helping you avoid a conviction and lasting criminal record, and make every effort to convince the court to offer you the chance to participate.

Appeals

If you have been convicted of a crime, you may have the option to file an appeal. Our attorneys are well versed in the Virginia criminal appeals process. This allows us to offer the advice you need to understand your eligibility to appeal a conviction, and what you may be able to expect from the process. Should you choose to appeal your conviction, we handle all the paperwork and preparation on your behalf and represent you during court hearings.

Schedule A Free Consultation To Begin Planning Your Defense

The criminal defense team at McClain Rosenthall Davis, PLLC, is here to help you understand your charges, the penalties and the options you have for defending yourself. During your initial consultation, you will meet with a lawyer to review your charges and learn how we can be of service. Schedule your free initial consultation today by using our online contact form or by calling us at 703-291-1550. Se habla español.