Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Manassas, Virginia, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors (up to 12 months jail, $2,500 fine under Va. Code Title 18.2) to felonies carrying years in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation in Manassas General District Court, with firm-wide experience across 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor, Kristen M. Fisher, brings firsthand insight into how the Commonwealth’s Attorney builds cases.
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 Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. More serious felonies proceed to jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court. The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a strategic understanding of case construction from both sides.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, refer to the official Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) published by the Virginia General Assembly. For court-specific information, forms, and procedures, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process and Strategy
The procedural path for a criminal case in Manassas depends on whether it is charged as a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanors are fully adjudicated in Manassas General District Court. Felonies begin with a preliminary hearing in GDC to determine probable cause before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Initial Appearance and Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance is common for first-time misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear at Manassas GDC (9311 Lee Avenue) to hear formal charges and enter a plea.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and may file pre-trial motions.
- Resolution: Most cases resolve through negotiation. If not, a bench trial occurs in GDC or a jury trial in 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 state prison sentences.
| 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, permanent record |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) (§ 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Theft conviction on record |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) (§ 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Driving on Suspended (§ 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Mandatory minimum jail possible |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums set by statute; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case and court discretion.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Manassas Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our approach is case-specific, drawing on the former prosecutorial experience of attorneys like Kristen M. Fisher, who knows how the Commonwealth’s Attorney evaluates and pursues charges in Manassas. Global advocacy. Local precision.
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
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’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
Documented Case Experience
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. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas General District Court and understand its local procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Manassas Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. As a criminal defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown, we represent individuals throughout the Manassas area. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747 — all meetings are 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 Resources
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve neighboring areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we handle related matters including DUI defense and family law. Learn more about attorney Kristen M. 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.