Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
In Manassas, a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code Title 18.2 carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Our former prosecutor and former Virginia State Trooper attorneys provide a strong defense at Manassas General District Court. Contact us 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia criminal law is defined by statutes in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. These laws classify offenses as misdemeanors or felonies, each with specific penalties. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases in Manassas courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For court procedures and information, refer to the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process for Criminal Cases
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges based on legal grounds.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential plea agreements or diversion programs with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or be resolved through a plea agreement.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You have the right to appeal to Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Offenses in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal charges carry penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the offense classification under Virginia law.
| 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 | Criminal record, possible protective order |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record, restitution |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony | 1-20 years | Court discretion | None | Felony record, restitution |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | Jail time, fines, extended suspension |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums under Virginia law; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of each case.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We focus on providing full representation for criminal cases in Manassas and surrounding communities.
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 for Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We represent clients throughout the Manassas area and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
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).
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?
Criminal charges in Manassas are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Manassas General District Court. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 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.
Related Legal Services
For more information, visit our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you need assistance with related matters, consider our Manassas DUI lawyer or Manassas family law lawyer. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.