Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
In Manassas, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code Title 18.2) to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced criminal defense representation at Manassas General District Court, with firm-wide experience handling 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor attorneys understand local procedures and can help protect your rights.
Criminal defense in Manassas requires knowledge of both General District Court procedures for misdemeanors and Circuit Court processes for felonies.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Manassas, charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Manassas General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, with felony trials occurring in Manassas Circuit Court. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense cases throughout Northern Virginia.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — Official Virginia statute database
- Manassas General District Court — Court website with procedures and contact information
Manassas Criminal Court Procedures
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230. The court operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For felony cases, preliminary hearings determine if there’s probable cause to send the case to Circuit Court for jury trial.
Steps in a Manassas Criminal Case
- Arrest and Initial Appearance: You’ll appear before a magistrate who sets bond conditions.
- Arraignment: Formal reading of charges at Manassas GDC where you enter a plea.
- Discovery Phase: Your attorney obtains evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Pretrial Motions: Motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges may be filed.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Either proceed to trial before Judge Che C. Rogers or negotiate a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows; you may appeal to Manassas Circuit Court.
Manassas Criminal Penalties
In Manassas, criminal offenses carry significant penalties under Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines, while felonies can result in years of imprisonment.
| 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 | Criminal record affects employment |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program available |
Results may vary. Each case depends on specific facts and circumstances.
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+ documented case results firm-wide, our attorneys bring substantial courtroom experience to Manassas criminal cases. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand both sides of criminal proceedings.
Global advocacy. Local precision. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas courts and understand the local procedures, judges, and prosecutors.
Kristen M. Fisher
Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Bar Admissions: Maryland; Virginia
Former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland — prosecuted diverse criminal cases in both District and Circuit Courts. Joined Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 2010 with firsthand prosecutorial experience providing insight into case construction and trial strategies.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas courts and understand local procedures at Manassas General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts, accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234. We represent clients throughout 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). 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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — Statewide hub page
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer — Nearby locality
- Manassas DUI/DWI Lawyer — Related practice area
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile — Attorney background
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.