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 firm-wide results. Our former prosecutors provide full representation for assault, theft, drug possession, and DUI charges heard at Manassas General District Court. We protect your rights and aim for dismissals, reductions, or acquittals.
Criminal charges in Manassas are serious and require immediate legal action to protect your future.
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, such as simple assault under § 18.2-57, is punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500. A Class 5 felony, like grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, carries 1 to 10 years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this detailed knowledge of Virginia law to build strong defenses for clients in Manassas.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For court-specific information, forms, and procedures, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process
Your case begins at Manassas General District Court for misdemeanor trials or felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230. Prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle the case. You have an absolute right to a jury trial for any jail-eligible offense, which would move the case to Manassas Circuit Court.
- Initial Appearance: Appear for arraignment at Manassas GDC. Enter a not guilty plea to preserve all defense options.
- Discovery Review: Your attorney obtains all police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the prosecution.
- Strategy Session: We evaluate the strength of the evidence to pursue a dismissal, plea agreement, or trial.
- Court Hearing: Attend all scheduled motions hearings and the trial or disposition hearing.
- Resolution: Work toward the best possible outcome, which may be dismissal, reduction of charges, or an acquittal.
- Post-Trial: If convicted, explore appeals or expungement options if you are eligible under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Potential Penalties for Criminal Charges 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 (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Protective order, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (§ 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years* | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Possession of Schedule I/II Drug (§ 18.2-250) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension for 6 months | Drug education program, felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums established by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the effectiveness of your legal representation.
Bond is set by a magistrate after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-time misdemeanors. A secured bond, requiring a bail bondsman (typically 10% fee), is more likely for felonies. You can request a bond review hearing at Manassas General District Court.
Why Choose Our Manassas Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a documented track record of 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach: we apply extensive legal knowledge to the specific procedures of Manassas General District Court. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, giving us unique insight into how cases are built and can be challenged.
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 and Client Outcomes
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. While we actively represent clients in Manassas, our firm-wide results demonstrate a consistent pattern of achieving dismissals, charge reductions, and acquittals in criminal matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Local Criminal Defense Services in Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts, which are accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234. As a criminal defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown, we serve the Manassas area and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (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, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby localities like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges in Manassas, explore our Manassas DUI lawyer or Manassas family law lawyer pages. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your Manassas criminal case.