
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 case results firm-wide. Our former prosecutors provide a strong defense at Manassas General District Court. Call (888) 437-7747 for a consultation by appointment.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. In Manassas, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Manassas General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm’s combined attorney experience exceeds 120 years.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) on the official Virginia General Assembly website. For court information, visit the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas Court Process
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Manassas Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and all appeals from GDC.
- Initial Appearance and Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first-offense misdemeanors.
- Arraignment and Plea Entry: At arraignment in GDC, you hear the charges and enter a plea.
- Pre-Trial Motions and Discovery: Your attorney files motions and reviews the prosecution’s evidence.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: Most cases resolve through plea agreements. Bench trials occur in GDC.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia guidelines. Appeals go to Circuit Court.
Penalties for Crimes in Manassas
In Manassas, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1 to 10 years in prison.
| 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 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution, permanent record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, increased insurance |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics.
Bond amount is set by the magistrate at arrest. A secured bond typical for felonies requires a bail bondsman, who charges approximately 10%. Court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for misdemeanors to $445 or more for felonies.
Why Choose Our Manassas Criminal Defense Team
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides global advocacy with local precision. Founded in 1997, our firm has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. We have achieved 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%.
Our team includes former prosecutors like Kristen Fisher, who provides significant insight into how cases are built and tried in Virginia courts.
Kristen M. Fisher — Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher is a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, bar-admitted in Virginia and Maryland. She joined Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 2010 and focuses 75% of her practice on litigation in state courts.
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 in Manassas
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. actively practices in Manassas. Firm-wide, we have handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, not guilty verdicts, and charge reductions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts, 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
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?
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. 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
Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax County | Criminal Defense Lawyer in Prince William County
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
