Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Manassas, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code Title 18.2 to felonies with years of incarceration. 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 and former state trooper attorneys use their inside knowledge to build strong defenses.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, like simple assault under § 18.2-57, can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felonies, such as grand larceny for theft over $1,000, carry prison terms from one to ten years. The specific court and procedures depend on the charge’s severity.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court-specific information, forms, and procedures, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue). Misdemeanors are tried there, while felonies start with a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for a jury trial. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any charge with potential jail time.
- Arraignment: Appear in Manassas GDC, enter a plea, and request a court-appointed attorney if eligible.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors.
- Negotiation: Discuss potential plea agreements or diversion programs with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Hearing: Proceed to a bench trial in GDC for misdemeanors or a preliminary hearing for felonies.
- Circuit Court (if applicable): If bound over, your felony case moves to Manassas Circuit Court for a jury trial.
- Sentencing or Appeal: Receive the court’s judgment or file an appeal within the statutory deadline.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Grand Larceny) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, mandatory minimum fine |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and 4,739+ firm-wide documented case results, our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how cases are built from both sides.
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 Manassas Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local 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 Historic Downtown. 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
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).
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.
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.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Manassas, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Manassas are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Manassas General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers.
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.
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 also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated from court records and statutes. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.