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 across 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor insight helps handle the details of your defense.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors are heard in Manassas General District Court, while felonies proceed to Manassas Circuit Court for jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this experience to build case-specific defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court procedures and forms, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Criminal Cases
Your case begins with an arraignment at Manassas General District Court. You will enter a plea and receive a trial date. The court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings.
- Initial Appearance: Appear at Manassas General District Court for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve your rights.
- Review Discovery: Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- File Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on procedural errors or constitutional violations.
- Negotiate with Prosecutor: Your attorney will negotiate for reduced charges, dismissal, or favorable plea terms based on case weaknesses.
- Prepare for Trial: If no agreement is reached, prepare for a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | 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 | Restitution required |
| 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 repeat offenses |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Grand Larceny (Felony) | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case details.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Manassas Criminal Defense?
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to your case. Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provide insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases. We focus on a case-specific approach for each client in Manassas.
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 in Manassas and Virginia
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. Our firm actively practices in Manassas General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
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. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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.
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?
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 including Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we handle related matters like DUI defense and family law. Learn more about Kristen Fisher’s background.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.