Robbery Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Robbery is a serious felony in Virginia, and a conviction in Manassas carries severe penalties. Under Va. Code § 18.2-58, robbery is punishable by 5 years to life in prison. If you are facing a robbery charge, you need a strong defense strategy. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-58. The statute states that any person who commits robbery by violence or intimidation is guilty of a felony. The crime is classified separately from larceny due to the element of force or threat.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a deep understanding of how these charges are investigated and prosecuted. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas must handle complex evidence, including witness identification and forensic analysis.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the robbery statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-58 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filings for Manassas cases are handled through the Manassas General District Court website.
Defending a Robbery Charge in Manassas Courts
The key to a robbery defense often lies in challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent, identity, or the use of force. In Manassas General District Court, which handles preliminary hearings for felony robberies, prosecutors must establish probable cause. A skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas will scrutinize police reports, surveillance footage, and witness statements for inconsistencies.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Discuss all details of the accusation with your attorney immediately.
- Investigation & Evidence Gathering: Your defense team will obtain all police reports, witness lists, and any available video evidence.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the Manassas GDC hearing, your lawyer will challenge the prosecution’s evidence to try to get charges reduced or dismissed.
- Circuit Court Preparation: If the case proceeds, a strong defense strategy for trial in Manassas Circuit Court is developed, which may include filing pre-trial motions.
- Negotiation or Trial: Your attorney will pursue the best possible outcome, whether through negotiation for a favorable plea or by vigorously defending you at trial.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Manassas, a robbery conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-58 is a felony punishable by a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery | Felony | 5 years to life* | Court discretion | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Robbery (Attempted) | Felony | Up to 10 years | Court discretion | Same long-term consequences as a completed robbery conviction. |
| Armed Robbery | Felony | Mandatory minimums apply; 3 years for firearm, 5 years for other weapons. | Court discretion | Enhanced penalties under Va. Code § 18.2-53.1; severe mandatory sentences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
*A judge or jury may impose a sentence within this range based on the facts of the case and the defendant’s history.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Robbery Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands both sides of the courtroom. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
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 and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm-wide approach focuses on meticulous case analysis and aggressive advocacy. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a firm-wide favorable outcome rate of over 93%. For example, our team has successfully defended clients by getting charges amended from more serious felonies to lesser offenses, or by securing dismissals where the evidence was weak.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, our managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on complex cases, ensuring every defense is thorough.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a robbery defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown Manassas, serving the Manassas community.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Charges in Manassas
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a significant difference. Robbery involves taking property through force or intimidation. Armed robbery involves using a firearm or other weapon during the crime, which triggers mandatory minimum prison sentences under Va. Code § 18.2-53.1.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Robbery is a felony by statute. However, a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas may negotiate to reduce the charge to a lesser felony like grand larceny or larceny from a person, depending on the evidence and circumstances. This is a common defense strategy.
What should I do if I am arrested for robbery in Manassas?
Remain silent and ask for a lawyer immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a robbery defense lawyer Manassas as soon as possible to begin building your defense. The early stages of a case are critical.
How long does a robbery case take in Manassas?
A robbery case can take several months to over a year. The preliminary hearing in Manassas General District Court typically occurs within a few months of arrest. If the case proceeds to trial in Manassas Circuit Court, the process is longer due to pre-trial motions and court scheduling.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery preliminary hearing?
Yes. The preliminary hearing is a critical stage where the prosecution must show probable cause. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas can cross-examine witnesses and challenge evidence, potentially getting the felony charge dismissed before it even goes to Circuit Court.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in Fairfax County and with related issues like DUI charges in Manassas.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.