In Manassas, criminal charges under Va. Code Title 18.2 carry penalties up to 12 months in jail for a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Former prosecutors on staff provide strong defense at Manassas General District Court. Consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia criminal law is codified under Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). In Manassas, the Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all criminal cases. Misdemeanors include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Felonies include grand larceny over $1,000, drug distribution, and malicious wounding. Sentencing follows § 19.2-295.1. Expungement is available for acquittals and dismissals under § 19.2-392.2. First offender programs under § 19.2-303.2 may result in dismissal upon successful completion.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly)
Official Resources
Insider Procedural Edge: Manassas General District Court
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court is located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110.
In Manassas, prosecutors routinely offer first offender programs for eligible first-time offenders. Successful completion results in dismissal under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2.
- Step 1 — Arrest and Initial Appearance: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors. Secured bond (10% to bondsman) is typical for felonies.
- Step 2 — Arraignment: You appear before the judge to enter a plea. The court appoints counsel if you qualify financially ($120 misdemeanor, $445+ felony).
- Step 3 — Discovery and Motions: Your attorney reviews police reports, body camera footage, and witness statements. Motions to suppress evidence are filed before trial.
- Step 4 — Plea Negotiations: The Commonwealth’s Attorney may offer a plea deal. First offender programs under § 19.2-303.2 are available for eligible charges.
- Step 5 — Trial or Preliminary Hearing: Misdemeanor trials occur in GDC. Felony preliminary hearings determine probable cause before Circuit Court transfer.
- Step 6 — Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately in GDC. You have 10 days to appeal to Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial.
In Manassas, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to prison time depending on classification.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault and Battery (§ 18.2-57) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, potential protective order |
| Petit Larceny (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | License suspension extended | Criminal record, DMV demerit points |
| Grand Larceny (over $1,000) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of voting rights |
| Drug Distribution | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension | Felony record, federal consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Handles Criminal Defense in Manassas
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. The firm’s tagline is “Advocacy Without Borders.”
Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the equitable distribution statute, demonstrating deep legislative knowledge that benefits criminal defense strategy. Former Virginia State Trooper Bryan Block and former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney Kristen Fisher bring prosecutorial insight to every case.
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 Firm-Wide
SRIS actively practices in Manassas. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Manassas Criminal Defense Services
Our Fairfax Location serves clients at Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234.
Looking for a criminal defense lawyer near Manassas? We serve all Manassas neighborhoods and communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax Location
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Manassas
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Class 2: 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?
Yes, 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. 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.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.