Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Manassas, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code § 18.2-11) to felonies carrying years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in Manassas General District Court, with firm-wide experience handling 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor insight helps build strong defenses against charges like assault, theft, and drug possession.
A criminal charge in Manassas requires immediate legal attention to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses prosecuted in Manassas. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas handles prosecution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to defend clients. The firm’s background in accounting and information systems provides an advantage in complex financial cases.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website (Title 18.2 Crimes and Offenses). For court-specific information, including forms and procedures, refer to the Manassas General District Court official website.
Manassas Court Process for Criminal Cases
The criminal process in Manassas begins at the Manassas General District Court for misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings. Felony trials proceed to Manassas Circuit Court. Each court has distinct judges, clerks, and procedures.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: At Manassas GDC, you are formally charged and enter a plea.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence and may file motions to suppress or dismiss.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial: Most cases resolve by agreement. Otherwise, a bench trial is held at GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. Appeals go to Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal penalties are defined by Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, and felonies carrying potential prison sentences of one year to life.
| 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 possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Driving on Suspended (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 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, prior record, and court discretion.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to Manassas criminal cases. Founded in 1997, the firm maintains a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across 4,739+ documented results. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to Manassas court procedures.
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 VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. These results include dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions in cases similar to those heard in Manassas courts.
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 represent individuals throughout the Manassas area and surrounding communities. For 24/7 phone consultations, call (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | (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
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we handle related matters including DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.