
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
In Manassas, 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 attorneys understand local procedures and build case-specific defenses.
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine under Virginia law.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia classifies crimes as misdemeanors or felonies, with penalties defined in Va. Code Title 18.2. Misdemeanors are heard in Manassas General District Court, while felonies proceed to Manassas Circuit Court for jury trial. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes all cases. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, uses this legal framework to protect clients’ rights.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) — official Virginia statute.
- Manassas General District Court website — court information and procedures.
Manassas Court Process
Criminal cases in Manassas follow specific local steps. The Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue handles initial proceedings.
- Arrest and Bond: A magistrate sets bond. Personal recognizance is common for first misdemeanors.
- Arraignment: You appear in Manassas GDC to enter a plea and receive a trial date.
- Discovery: Your attorney reviews the prosecution’s evidence and files pre-trial motions.
- Trial or Hearing: Misdemeanor bench trial in GDC or felony preliminary hearing to determine if evidence supports moving to Circuit Court.
- Resolution: Case concludes through dismissal, plea, or trial verdict. For felonies, a Circuit Court jury trial may follow.
- Appeal or Expungement: You can appeal to Manassas Circuit Court. Expungement may be available for dismissals under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
Penalties for Criminal Charges in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal penalties range from fines for minor offenses to years in prison for felonies, with specific consequences defined by 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 typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny under $1,000 (Va. Code § 18.2-96) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Restitution required |
| Grand Larceny $1,000+ (Va. Code § 18.2-95) | Felony (Class 6) | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program may apply |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case details.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. The firm’s tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach. We focus on the details of each case to seek favorable results.
Kristen M. Fisher
Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Bar Admissions: Maryland; Virginia. Former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland. Joined Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 2010. Represents clients in Maryland and Virginia 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 Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. We actively represent clients in Manassas courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Service in Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at 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: (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
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer — state hub page.
- Fairfax County Criminal Defense Lawyer — nearby locality.
- Manassas DUI/DWI Lawyer — related practice area.
- Kristen Fisher Attorney Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.