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 § 18.2-11) to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation at Manassas General District Court and Circuit Court. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand local procedures. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings by appointment only.
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, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Misdemeanors are heard in Manassas General District Court, while felonies proceed to Manassas Circuit Court for jury trials. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all cases in these courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court information, see the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process
Manassas General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal for eligible defendants.
- Appear at Manassas General District Court for arraignment. Enter a plea of not guilty to preserve your rights.
- Obtain police reports and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Challenge evidence through motions to suppress if constitutional violations occurred during arrest or search.
- Discuss reduction or dismissal options based on evidence weaknesses, first-offender status, or procedural issues.
- If no agreement is reached, prepare for bench trial in GDC or demand jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal offenses carry specific penalties: Class 1 misdemeanors up to 12 months jail and $2,500 fine, Class 5 felonies 1-10 years, with higher penalties for aggravated offenses.
| 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 |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Discretionary | None | Felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Vehicle impoundment possible |
Results may vary. Case outcomes depend on specific facts, evidence, and court discretion.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We maintain a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand both sides of criminal cases.
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 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.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Services
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We represent clients throughout Manassas 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: (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
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer | Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer | Manassas DUI/DWI Lawyer | Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.