Robbery Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Robbery in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, carrying a potential life sentence. A robbery lawyer Manassas from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides full representation. Our firm has documented results in Manassas General District Court and Circuit Court. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery in Virginia is defined by statute as the taking of personal property from another person, or from their immediate presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. The core element that distinguishes robbery from theft is the use of force, threat of force, or putting the victim in fear. This is codified in Va. Code § 18.2-58.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings extensive experience to complex criminal cases like robbery. Mr. Sris’s background in accounting and information systems provides a distinct advantage in cases involving financial evidence or digital trails.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-58 (official Virginia General Assembly) – Defines robbery and its punishment.
- Manassas General District Court – Official court website for case information and procedures.
Manassas Court Process for Robbery Charges
Robbery charges in Manassas begin with an arrest and an initial appearance before a magistrate. Because robbery is a felony, your first court date will be a preliminary hearing in Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must present evidence to show probable cause that a robbery occurred. A robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas can challenge the evidence at this stage.
- Arrest & Initial Appearance: You will be taken before a magistrate who sets bond and determines probable cause for arrest.
- Preliminary Hearing (GDC): At Manassas General District Court, the prosecution presents evidence. Your attorney can cross-examine witnesses and argue for dismissal.
- Grand Jury & Circuit Court Indictment: If probable cause is found, the case proceeds to a grand jury. An indictment moves the case to Manassas Circuit Court for trial.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: You enter a plea of guilty or not guilty in Circuit Court.
- Pre-Trial Motions & Discovery: Your attorney files motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges and reviews all discovery from the prosecution.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial or, if in your best interest, your attorney negotiates a plea agreement for a reduced charge.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Manassas, robbery is a felony punishable by a minimum of 5 years and up to life imprisonment, with no mandatory minimum for a first offense unless a firearm was used.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | 5 years to life | Court discretion | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment and housing. |
| Robbery with a Firearm (Va. Code § 18.2-53.1) | Felony (separate charge) | Mandatory minimum 3 years consecutive to robbery sentence | Court discretion | None directly | All consequences above, plus enhanced mandatory prison time. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Robbery Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have a combined 120+ years of legal experience. We have handled 4,739+ documented case results with a firm-wide favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your case.
For armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas representation, our team includes attorneys like Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and Bryan Block, a former Virginia State Trooper with 15 years of law enforcement experience. This inside perspective is invaluable for challenging police procedures and evidence.
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 Client Outcomes
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes, including dismissals, reductions, and not-guilty verdicts. While results in Manassas are part of this overall record, each case is unique.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
For example, our attorneys have successfully defended clients on serious charges by challenging identification procedures, proving lack of intent, or negotiating reductions from felonies to misdemeanors when the evidence supported it.
Robbery Lawyer Near Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We represent individuals in Manassas and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a key difference. Robbery under Va. Code § 18.2-58 involves force or intimidation. Armed robbery is not a separate robbery statute but involves an additional, mandatory penalty under Va. Code § 18.2-53.1 if a firearm is used in the commission of a robbery. This adds a mandatory minimum 3-year prison sentence, consecutive to the robbery sentence.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends on the case facts and evidence. While robbery is always a felony, negotiations with the prosecutor may sometimes lead to a plea agreement for a lesser felony like grand larceny, or in rare cases, a misdemeanor larceny. The strength of the prosecution’s evidence and the specific circumstances are critical factors a robbery lawyer Manassas will evaluate.
What are common defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal (claim of right), absence of force or intimidation, duress, and insufficient evidence. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas might also challenge the legality of a search that found a weapon or the reliability of witness identification.
How long does a robbery case take in Manassas?
A robbery case can take several months to over a year. The preliminary hearing in General District Court is typically within a few months of arrest. If indicted, the case moves to Circuit Court, where pre-trial motions and discovery can extend the timeline. Virginia’s speedy trial right requires a felony trial within 9 months if the defendant is incarcerated.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of robbery?
No. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney. Politely decline to answer questions and request a lawyer immediately. Anything you say can be used against you. Contact a robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas before speaking to investigators.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing a robbery charge, you may also want to learn about Virginia criminal defense. For representation in nearby areas, see our Fairfax criminal defense lawyer page. For other legal needs in Manassas, consider Manassas DUI defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.