Robbery Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — Protecting Your Rights
A robbery charge in Manassas is a serious felony under Virginia law, carrying severe penalties. If you are facing a robbery or armed robbery charge, you need a dedicated robbery defense lawyer Manassas. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for clients at the Manassas General District and Circuit Courts.
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 law distinguishes between simple robbery and armed robbery, with the latter involving the use or display of a firearm or other weapon. A conviction for robbery carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison, with a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Armed robbery under Va. Code § 18.2-58 has even more severe mandatory minimums, starting at three years for the use of a firearm.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute on robbery, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website (Va. Code § 18.2-58). Court information for Manassas cases can be found on the Virginia Courts website for Manassas General District Court.
Defending Robbery Charges in Manassas Courts
Every robbery case in Manassas begins at the Manassas General District Court for a preliminary hearing before moving to the Manassas Circuit Court for a jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively. A key local procedural fact is that identification is often a central issue in robbery cases. Witness reliability, line-up procedures, and surveillance footage are frequently challenged by a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas. The court at 9311 Lee Avenue handles these serious matters.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a robbery defense lawyer immediately after an arrest or charge. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney present.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case will start in Manassas General District Court. Your attorney will challenge probable cause and seek to have charges reduced or dismissed.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your legal team will obtain all police reports, witness statements, and video evidence to build your defense strategy.
- Circuit Court Proceedings: If the case proceeds, it moves to Manassas Circuit Court for pre-trial motions and potential jury trial.
- Trial or Negotiation: Your attorney will either negotiate for a favorable plea agreement or prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your lawyer will advocate for the most lenient sentence possible, presenting mitigating factors to the judge.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Manassas, a robbery conviction is a felony with a mandatory minimum of 5 years in prison and a potential life sentence. An armed robbery conviction carries even stricter penalties.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment. |
| Armed Robbery (Firearm) | Felony | 3-year mandatory minimum (additional) | Up to $100,000 | All of the above, plus mandatory consecutive sentences for firearm use. |
| Attempted Robbery | Felony | 2 to 10 years | Up to $100,000 | Same long-term consequences as a completed robbery. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Robbery Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a robbery charge and provide a focused, strategic defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across Northern Virginia, including Manassas.
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 specific case results are confidential, our firm’s approach to robbery defense is grounded in thorough preparation and aggressive advocacy. For instance, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems—often finds success in challenging the financial or evidentiary aspects of theft-related charges. We examine every detail, from witness credibility to the chain of evidence, to protect your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are your local robbery defense lawyer Manassas residents trust, also serving neighborhoods throughout the area. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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 major difference. Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) involves taking property through violence or intimidation. Armed robbery specifically involves the use or display of a firearm or other weapon, which triggers additional mandatory minimum prison sentences upon conviction.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Robbery is always a felony in Virginia. However, a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas can sometimes negotiate to have the charge amended to a lesser felony like grand larceny or a misdemeanor assault before trial, depending on the evidence and circumstances of the case.
What are the defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, alibi, lack of intent to steal, claim of right to the property, and challenging the evidence of violence or intimidation. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas will also scrutinize police procedures, witness identifications, and the legality of any searches.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery charge in Manassas?
Yes, absolutely. Robbery carries a mandatory prison sentence upon conviction. The legal process is complex, and the prosecution will be aggressive. Having an experienced robbery defense lawyer Manassas is essential to protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
What court will my robbery case be in?
Your case will start with a preliminary hearing at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue). If the judge finds probable cause, the case will be sent to the Manassas Circuit Court for a jury trial, where all felonies are ultimately decided.
Internal Resources
For more information, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services in Manassas, such as DUI defense or family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.