Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
A criminal charge in Manassas requires immediate action to protect your rights and record.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code, defines offenses prosecuted in Manassas. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas handles prosecution. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this statutory knowledge to build defenses. The firm’s background in accounting and information systems provides an edge in cases involving financial or technical evidence.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal laws, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For Manassas court information, visit the Manassas General District Court website for forms, hours, and contact details.
Manassas Court Process for Criminal Cases
The criminal process in Manassas starts at the Manassas General District Court for misdemeanors and felony preliminary hearings. Felony trials occur in Manassas Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any jail-eligible offense.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. You can appeal the bond amount at a hearing in Manassas General District Court.
- Arraignment: You formally hear the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial & Discovery: Your attorney reviews evidence, files motions, and negotiates with the Commonwealth’s Attorney.
- Trial or Plea: Misdemeanor bench trials happen in GDC. Felony jury trials are in Circuit Court. Many cases resolve through plea agreements.
- Sentencing & Appeal: If convicted, the judge imposes sentence. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Manassas Circuit Court.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal penalties are set by Virginia law, with Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, and felonies carrying potential prison sentences of one year to life.
| 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 (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Further suspension | Mandatory minimum jail for subsequent offenses |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6/5) | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums set by statute; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Firm Credentials and Local Insight
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm combines over 120 years of attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how cases are built and challenged. We serve clients throughout the Manassas area.
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 achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our attorneys actively handle cases in Manassas.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Service in Manassas
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.
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.
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. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A lawyer protects your rights and explores defenses.
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.
Related Legal Resources
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 also handle DUI/DWI cases and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.