Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas, such as assault and battery under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia’s criminal code, primarily under Title 18.2, defines offenses prosecuted in Manassas. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas handles prosecution. The Manassas General District Court adjudicates misdemeanors and conducts felony preliminary hearings, while the Manassas Circuit Court handles felony trials and appeals. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these courts.
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) on the Virginia General Assembly website. For court-specific information, visit the Manassas General District Court website for hours, forms, and contact details.
Manassas Court Process and Defense Strategy
The criminal process in Manassas begins with arrest and a bond hearing before a magistrate. Your first court date is an arraignment at Manassas General District Court to enter a plea. The court handles all misdemeanor trials.
- Initial Appearance & Bond: A magistrate sets bond after arrest. You can request a bond appeal hearing at the GDC.
- Arraignment: Formally hear charges and enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or no contest.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pre-trial motions, such as to suppress evidence.
- Trial or Negotiation: Proceed to a bench trial in GDC or negotiate a plea agreement. Felonies move to Circuit Court after a preliminary hearing.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing follows. You can appeal a GDC conviction to Manassas Circuit Court for a new trial.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal charges carry significant penalties: a Class 1 misdemeanor can result in up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while felonies can lead to 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 typically | 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, theft record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 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+) (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 5 or 6) | 1-10 years (Class 5) or 1-5 years (Class 6) | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record, restitution |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on the specific facts of your case, your criminal history, and the discretion of the judge.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to criminal cases in Manassas. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into case construction and police procedures. We have achieved over 4,739 documented case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. 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
Case Results and Client Outcomes
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC. While we actively practice in Manassas, this statistic represents our collective experience. Favorable outcomes include dismissals, acquittals, charge reductions, and favorable plea agreements.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome in your case.
Criminal Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, Virginia
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 Historic Downtown Manassas. We serve 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: (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 Services
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we handle related matters like DUI/DWI 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 up-to-date guidance regarding your specific situation.
