Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Manassas, Virginia, criminal charges like assault (Va. Code § 18.2-57) are Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our former prosecutor and former state trooper attorneys provide a strong defense in Manassas General District Court.
Virginia Criminal Law Defined
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. It defines offenses from misdemeanors like petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96) to felonies like grand larceny. The law establishes penalties, court procedures, and defendant rights.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia statute.
- Manassas General District Court Website — Court information and procedures.
Manassas Court Process
Your case begins at Manassas General District Court for misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings. Felony trials move to Circuit Court.
- Arraignment: You appear in Manassas GDC, hear the charges, and enter a plea.
- Pre-trial: Your attorney reviews evidence and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Hearing: Misdemeanor trial in GDC or felony preliminary hearing.
- Circuit Court (if applicable): Felony cases proceed to jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes penalties based on Virginia sentencing guidelines.
- Appeal/Expungement: You may appeal or seek expungement for dismissals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to years in prison for felonies. A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail.
| 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 typically | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, theft record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, significant restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, mandatory jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and defense strategy.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into both sides of a case. We focus on full representation, not just quick pleas.
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 in Virginia
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Near Manassas
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 the Historic Downtown area.
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.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
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
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.