Robbery Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Robbery in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for robbery charges. Our robbery defense lawyer Manassas team has extensive experience in Manassas General District and Circuit Courts. We offer 24/7 phone consultations.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person, or from their immediate presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. This is a Class 5 felony, carrying a potential penalty of 5 to 20 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the robbery involves the use or display of a firearm, it becomes a separate, more severe charge under § 18.2-53.1.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
Defending a Robbery Charge in Manassas Courts
An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas must handle a complex process. In Manassas, all felony robbery cases begin with a preliminary hearing at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230). The Commonwealth’s Attorney must present probable cause. If the case is certified to the Manassas Circuit Court, a grand jury will consider an indictment. A key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth aggressively prosecutes robbery charges, making early and strategic defense critical.
- Initial Appearance & Bond Hearing: After arrest, you will appear before a magistrate. A lawyer can argue for personal recognizance or a reasonable secured bond.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your attorney will challenge the prosecution’s evidence at the Manassas General District Court to try to get the charge reduced or dismissed.
- Grand Jury & Circuit Court Arraignment: If certified, the case moves to Circuit Court. Your lawyer will enter a plea and begin formal discovery.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Negotiation: This phase involves filing motions to suppress evidence and negotiating with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea agreement.
- Trial or Sentencing: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court. If a plea is entered, your lawyer will advocate for the most favorable sentence possible.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Manassas, robbery is a Class 5 felony carrying 5 years to life in prison, though a jury can reduce the punishment to up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Class 5 Felony | 5 years to life* (*or 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Use of a Firearm in Commission of Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Separate Mandatory Felony | Mandatory minimum of 3 years consecutive to robbery sentence. | N/A | Mandatory prison time that cannot be suspended or run concurrently with the robbery sentence. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our philosophy is “Advocacy Without Borders.” We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. For a robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas residents can rely on, our team understands the high stakes and builds defenses focused on challenging evidence, witness credibility, and prosecutorial overreach.
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 & Client Advocacy
While specific results are confidential, our firm-wide track record demonstrates our commitment to vigorous defense. We have successfully defended clients against serious felony charges, achieving outcomes such as reductions to lesser offenses, dismissals, and favorable plea agreements. Our secondary attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases with financial evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We serve neighborhoods throughout Manassas. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Robbery Charges in Manassas
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a critical difference. Robbery under Va. Code § 18.2-58 involves taking property by violence or intimidation. “Armed robbery” is not a separate charge in Virginia; instead, using or displaying a firearm during any felony, including robbery, triggers an additional mandatory felony under § 18.2-53.1, which adds at least 3 years of mandatory prison time.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. While robbery itself is a felony, a skilled robbery defense lawyer Manassas may negotiate a reduction to a lesser felony like grand larceny or, in rare circumstances based on the facts, a misdemeanor such as petit larceny or assault. The strength of the prosecution’s evidence and the defendant’s history are major factors.
What are common defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), absence of violence or intimidation, insufficient evidence, and challenging the legality of police procedures like identifications or searches. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas will meticulously review all evidence for weaknesses.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery preliminary hearing?
Yes. The preliminary hearing at Manassas General District Court is a crucial opportunity to cross-examine the prosecution’s witnesses and potentially get the felony charge dismissed before it goes to Circuit Court. Having an attorney is essential to protect your rights at this stage.
What court in Manassas handles robbery cases?
Robbery cases start with a preliminary hearing at the Manassas General District Court. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to the Manassas Circuit Court for indictment and potential jury trial. A robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas must be prepared to practice in both courts.
Related Legal Information
- Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer Hub
- Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax, VA
- DUI/DWI Lawyer in Manassas, VA
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.