Assault Lawyer Manassas — Defending Against Assault and Battery Charges
An assault charge in Manassas is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense for clients at Manassas General District Court. Our assault lawyer Manassas team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Assault and Battery Law
Virginia law defines assault and battery as an unwanted touching or an act that places another person in reasonable fear of bodily harm. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-57, classifies simple assault and battery as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Penalties increase for assaults against family or household members (domestic assault) or if a weapon is involved.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official Virginia statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-57 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information is available at the Manassas General District Court website.
Defending an Assault Charge in Manassas Court
Manassas General District Court handles all misdemeanor assault trials. Prosecutors must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you intended to cause harm or fear. A common defense is self-defense, which requires showing you reasonably believed force was necessary to protect yourself. An experienced assault and battery defense lawyer Manassas can challenge the evidence and witness statements.
- Contact an attorney immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your lawyer will obtain all police reports and witness statements.
- We will appear with you at your Manassas General District Court arraignment.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- If no plea agreement is reached, we prepare for and conduct a bench trial.
- If convicted, we advocate for the most favorable sentence possible.
Potential Penalties for Assault in Manassas
In Manassas, a simple assault conviction carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Simple Assault & Battery | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Permanent criminal record, possible protective order |
| Assault on Family/Household Member | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Mandatory arrest policy, no contact orders, impact on custody |
| Assault & Battery of Law Enforcement | Class 6 Felony | 1 to 5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, loss of firearm rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients. Our firm-wide experience includes over 4,739 case results. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, is a former prosecutor with a background that provides an advantage in building defenses.
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 Defense Strategy
Our approach focuses on getting charges reduced or dismissed. We examine the facts for weaknesses, such as lack of evidence, witness credibility issues, or valid self-defense claims. For example, we have successfully had assault charges amended to lesser offenses like disorderly conduct, which may avoid jail time. In other cases, we have secured an assault charge dismissed lawyer Manassas result through pre-trial motions or negotiations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Assault Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts at 9311 Lee Avenue. We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We serve clients throughout Manassas and surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Assault Defense FAQs in Manassas
What is the difference between assault and battery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a difference. Assault is putting someone in fear of imminent bodily harm. Battery is the actual unwanted touching. They are typically charged together under Va. Code § 18.2-57 as “assault and battery.”
Can an assault charge be dropped in Manassas?
It depends. The Commonwealth’s Attorney makes the final decision, not the alleged victim. While a victim’s request can help, prosecutors often proceed, especially in domestic cases. An assault and battery defense lawyer Manassas can negotiate for a dismissal based on evidence problems or alternative resolutions.
What should I do if I’m charged with assault?
Do not speak to police or the alleged victim without an attorney. Contact a defense lawyer immediately. Gather any evidence you have, like texts, videos, or witness names. Attend all court dates. An early defense strategy is key to protecting your rights.
Is self-defense a valid defense to assault?
Yes. Virginia law allows you to use reasonable force to defend yourself from imminent harm. You must show you believed force was necessary and the force used was proportional to the threat. This is a common defense strategy we evaluate.
Will I go to jail for a first-time assault charge?
Not necessarily. For a first-time simple assault with no injury, jail is often not imposed. The court may order probation, anger management, and a fine. However, jail is possible. An attorney can argue for alternatives to incarceration.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Fairfax criminal defense lawyer page or our Manassas DUI lawyer page. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia criminal defense hub.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.