Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Manassas, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our former prosecutors provide full representation for assault, theft, drug possession, and DUI charges heard at Manassas General District Court. We protect your rights from arrest through trial.
A criminal charge in Manassas requires immediate action to protect your future. Contact our firm for a case-specific approach.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies criminal offenses by severity. Misdemeanors are less serious than felonies but still carry jail time. The statutory definitions for common charges in Manassas are found in Va. Code Title 18.2. For example, simple assault under § 18.2-57 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Petit larceny (theft under $1,000) under § 18.2-96 is also a misdemeanor. Theft of $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed knowledge of the code to build strong defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, refer to the Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For local court procedures and forms, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Criminal Cases
Criminal cases in Manassas begin at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. This court handles all misdemeanor trials and preliminary hearings for felonies. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these cases.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: Appear before a magistrate at the Manassas Adult Detention Center. The magistrate sets bond conditions. You can request personal recognizance for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment at Manassas GDC: Attend your arraignment at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve your rights and request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Discovery: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors. Review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence provided by the prosecution.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Evaluate the strength of the prosecution’s case. Negotiate for reduced charges or explore first-offender programs. Proceed to trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal charges carry significant penalties including jail time, fines, and a permanent record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended License (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are the maximum under Virginia law. Actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Founded in 1997, our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provides direct insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases in Manassas and surrounding jurisdictions.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
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
Case Results for Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C., with over 93% favorable outcomes. While we maintain a strong practice in Manassas and Northern Virginia, these results represent our firm’s collective experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown Manassas. We serve the Manassas area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110). SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Manassas, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Manassas Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes.
How does bail work in Manassas, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Manassas. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Manassas General District Court. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony).
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Manassas, Virginia?
Criminal charges in Manassas are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. SRIS actively practices here — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Manassas?
Manassas General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we also handle DUI/DWI defense and family law matters. Learn more about Kristen Fisher’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.