
Criminal Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
In Manassas, criminal charges range from Class 1 misdemeanors carrying up to 12 months in jail under Va. Code Title 18.2 to felonies with years of incarceration. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced criminal defense representation at Manassas General District Court, with firm-wide experience handling 4,739+ documented case results. Our former prosecutor attorneys understand local procedures and work to protect your rights and future.
Virginia Criminal Law in Manassas
Virginia criminal law is codified in Title 18.2 of the Virginia Code. Common charges in Manassas include assault and battery (Va. Code § 18.2-57), petit larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-96), and drug possession. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the Manassas General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the complete text of Virginia criminal statutes, visit the Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses). The Manassas General District Court website provides court schedules, forms, and contact information.
Manassas Court Process
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. The court operates Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. For felony charges, cases proceed to Manassas Circuit Court for jury trial after the preliminary hearing establishes probable cause.
- Initial appearance at Manassas General District Court for arraignment where charges are formally read.
- Request discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney to examine police reports and evidence.
- Evaluate plea offers, first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2, or trial preparation.
- Proceed to misdemeanor trial in GDC or, for felonies, preliminary hearing then Circuit Court trial.
Criminal Penalties in Manassas
In Manassas, criminal offenses carry penalties ranging from fines to years of incarceration, with Class 1 misdemeanors punishable by up to 12 months in jail and $2,500 fines.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None typically | Protective order possible |
| Petit Larceny (under $1,000) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None | Criminal record affects employment |
| Drug Possession (first offense) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Driver’s license suspension possible | First offender program available |
| Grand Larceny ($1,000+) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years | Up to $2,500 | None | Felony record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are maximums; actual outcomes depend on case specifics, evidence, and defense strategy.
Our Criminal Defense Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We maintain a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand both sides of criminal cases.
Kristen M. Fisher
Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Bar Admissions: Maryland; Virginia. Former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland who prosecuted diverse criminal cases in both District and Circuit Courts. Joined Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. in 2010 with 75% litigation focus.
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. has firm-wide experience handling 4,739+ documented criminal case results across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas courts.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Services
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234. We provide criminal defense lawyer services near Manassas National Battlefield Park and throughout the Manassas area.
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, visit 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 such as DUI/DWI defense and family law. Learn more about Kristen Fisher’s background.
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.
