Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Virginia law.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are divided into four classes, with Class 1 being the most serious. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 1 (life imprisonment). The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes all criminal cases in the city.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Manassas Criminal Court Process
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. First offender programs are available under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 — successful completion results in dismissal.
- Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond within 24 hours of arrest at the Manassas Adult Detention Center.
- Arraignment: Enter a plea at Manassas GDC (9311 Lee Avenue). Not guilty pleas preserve all rights.
- Discovery: Request all evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney, including police reports and witness statements.
- Motion Practice: File suppression motions if constitutional rights were violated during arrest or search.
- Plea or Trial: Evaluate plea offers or proceed to bench trial (GDC) or jury trial (Circuit Court).
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, present mitigation evidence. Appeal to Circuit Court within 10 days.
Manassas Criminal Penalties
In Manassas, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months jail and $2,500.
| 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, no contact with victim |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent theft record |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (§ 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. Each case depends on specific facts and evidence.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Manassas Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to criminal defense in Manassas. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand both sides of criminal cases. We have documented 4,739+ case results firm-wide with over 93% favorable outcomes.
Global advocacy. Local precision.
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
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.
Manassas Criminal Defense Case Results
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 Manassas criminal defense work includes dismissals, reductions, and acquittals for charges ranging from assault to theft.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234. We represent clients throughout Manassas and surrounding communities.
Criminal defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown Manassas.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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
Related Legal Services
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality
- Prince William County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality
- Manassas DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile
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.