Fraud charges in Manassas, Virginia, are serious criminal offenses under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) and related statutes. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Manassas, including fraud charge defense, with 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%.
Fraud Lawyer Manassas in Manassas, Virginia
Fraud in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-178 as obtaining money or property by false pretenses, with intent to defraud. This statute covers a wide range of deceptive conduct, including credit card fraud, computer fraud, and identity theft. Penalties depend on the value involved: under $1,000 is a Class 1 misdemeanor (up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine); $1,000 or more is grand larceny, a felony punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Additional federal charges may apply under 18 U.S.C. for wire fraud, mail fraud, or bank fraud. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly — official site
For the full text of Virginia’s fraud statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-178 (Virginia General Assembly — official site). For federal fraud statutes, see 18 U.S.C. Fraud (U.S. Department of Justice — official site).
In Manassas General District Court, prosecutors routinely file fraud charges under both state and federal theories. We have observed that early intervention — before charges are formally filed — can sometimes lead to diversion or reduced charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these cases, and first-offender programs may be available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Do not speak to law enforcement or investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and financial records related to the alleged fraud.
- Contact a fraud charge defense lawyer Manassas immediately to assess your rights.
- Attend all court hearings at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230).
- Work with your attorney to explore plea negotiations or trial strategies.
- If convicted, discuss appeal options with your lawyer within 30 days of sentencing.
In Manassas, fraud charges carry penalties ranging from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the value and nature of the offense.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fraud under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-178) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent criminal record; potential immigration consequences |
| Fraud $1,000+ (Grand Larceny) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $100,000 | None | Loss of voting rights; difficulty obtaining employment/housing |
| Computer Fraud (Va. Code § 18.2-152.3) | Class 1 Misdemeanor to Class 5 Felony | Up to 10 years (felony) | Up to $2,500 (misdemeanor) or up to $100,000 (felony) | None | Restitution; potential federal charges |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Advocacy Without Borders — has handled extensive criminal defense experience in Manassas, including fraud charge defense and white collar crime defense.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Manassas: 92 documented Theft/Fraud/Property case results firm-wide, with 59 dismissed or not guilty, 28 reduced or amended, and 5 other favorable — a favorable-outcome rate of 100% in reported instances. Results may vary. Firm-wide, SRIS has 4,739+ documented case results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Our location in Fairfax is approximately 15 miles from Manassas General District Court, with access via I-66 and Route 28. If you need a fraud charge defense lawyer Manassas, we are here to help. Serving the communities of Manassas and Sudley area. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
(888) 437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions About Fraud Charges in Manassas
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 (City), Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at Manassas (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Manassas (City) Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine; Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months, $1,000; Class 5 felony: 1-10 years (or up to 12 months…. Early legal representation is critical — Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all GDC appeals; the Commonwealth’s… Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at Manassas (City) General District Court (misdemeanor) and Manassas (City) Circuit Court (felony) (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110) — consultation by appointment at (888) 437-7747.
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.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against computer fraud and abuse act violations charges?
Defense strategies for computer fraud and abuse act violations in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia?
If facing computer fraud and abuse act violations charges in Virginia, contact a criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states charges?
Defense strategies for conspiracy to commit an offense or to defraud the united states in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney evaluates the specific facts under Va. Code § 18.2-178 (obtaining money by false pretenses) to build the strongest possible defense.
For more information about criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Petit Larceny Lawyer Virginia hub page. You may also be interested in our Petit Larceny Lawyer Falls Church or Petit Larceny Lawyer Fairfax County pages. For related business law matters in Manassas, see Mergers and Acquisitions Lawyer Manassas and Business Dissolution Lawyer Manassas.
Last verified: April 2026