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 prosecutors and former Virginia State Trooper 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 classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. A Class 1 misdemeanor, such as simple assault or petit larceny, is the most serious misdemeanor level. Felonies range from Class 6 (1-5 years) to Class 5 (1-10 years). Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, who brings a prosecutor’s insight to building your defense.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia criminal statutes, see Va. Code Title 18.2 (official Virginia General Assembly). 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. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes cases. First offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 can lead to dismissal upon successful completion.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged 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.
- Negotiation: Your attorney will discuss potential plea agreements with the prosecutor.
- Trial or Disposition: Your case will proceed to a bench trial or be resolved through a plea.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will impose a sentence based on Virginia guidelines.
- Appeal: You have the right to appeal a GDC conviction to Manassas Circuit Court.
Manassas Criminal Penalties
In Manassas, a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, while a Class 5 felony carries 1-10 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 |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6 or 5) | 1-10 years | Court discretion | None | Restitution, felony record |
| Driving on Suspended (Va. Code § 46.2-301) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Additional suspension | DMV points, insurance increase |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and has over 120 years of combined attorney experience. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a unique perspective on case construction and defense strategy. We have a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results.
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
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 Manassas defense team draws on this extensive experience.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense in Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. As a criminal defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown, 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.
Fairfax Location — 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?
Yes. 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.
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, see our Virginia criminal defense lawyer hub page. We also serve nearby areas including Fairfax County and Prince William County. In Manassas, we also handle DUI defense and family law matters. Learn more about attorney Kristen Fisher.
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.