Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, like simple assault under § 18.2-57, carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Felonies, such as grand larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more, are more serious. The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to protect clients’ rights.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). For court procedures and forms, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process and Defense Strategy
Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes cases here. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal for eligible charges.
- Initial appearance and bond hearing: Appear before a magistrate within 24 hours of arrest for bond determination. You can request a bond review hearing at Manassas General District Court.
- Arraignment and plea entry: Formally hear the charges and enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest. This is your first court date at 9311 Lee Avenue.
- Discovery and pre-trial motions: Your attorney obtains police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Motions to suppress evidence may be filed.
- Trial or plea negotiation: Either proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC or negotiate a plea agreement with the prosecutor for reduced charges or sentencing.
- Sentencing or appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately or at a later date. You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal penalties range from fines and probation for misdemeanors to multi-year prison sentences for felonies, as defined by Va. Code Title 18.2.
| 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (< $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Driving on Suspended License (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum fine for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny (≥ $1,000) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are statutory maximums; actual outcomes depend on case facts, criminal history, and defense strategy.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Manassas Criminal Defense?
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal cases in Manassas. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
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 Outcomes
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific Manassas results are part of this aggregate, our experience in the local court is active and ongoing.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a criminal defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and the historic downtown area. We serve the Manassas community and surrounding neighborhoods. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (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
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we handle related matters such as DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws and procedures change; contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.