Robbery Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Legal Options?
Robbery in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A robbery defense lawyer Manassas from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent, identification, and use of force. Our firm has extensive experience in the Manassas General District and Circuit Courts. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person, or in their presence, against their will, by violence or intimidation. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. The use of force, threat, or intimidation is what elevates a theft to a robbery. If a firearm or other deadly weapon is used, the charge becomes armed robbery under Va. Code § 18.2-58, which carries even more severe mandatory minimum sentences.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s robbery statutes, refer to the Virginia General Assembly website. Court procedures and local rules for the Manassas courts can be found on the Manassas General District Court official site.
Defending a Robbery Charge in Manassas Courts
Your case will begin at the Manassas General District Court for a preliminary hearing if it’s a felony. A key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove not just the taking of property, but the specific intent to permanently deprive the owner and the use of violence or intimidation. Defenses often focus on mistaken identity, lack of intent, or contesting the degree of force used.
- Initial Consultation & Case Analysis: Contact a defense attorney immediately after arrest or charge. We review the arrest warrant, statements, and initial evidence.
- Preliminary Hearing Strategy: At the Manassas General District Court, we challenge probable cause, seeking to have charges reduced or dismissed before they move to Circuit Court.
- Investigation & Discovery: We conduct an independent investigation, subpoena evidence, and file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence or unreliable identifications.
- Plea Negotiation or Trial Preparation: Based on the evidence, we negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a favorable plea or prepare a vigorous trial defense in Manassas Circuit Court.
- Sentencing Advocacy: If a conviction occurs, we present mitigating evidence and argue for the most lenient sentence possible under the law.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Virginia
In Manassas, robbery is a felony punishable by 5 years to life imprisonment, with armed robbery carrying mandatory minimum sentences.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | 5 years to life | Up to $100,000 | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Armed Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years (firearm) to life | Up to $100,000 | Same as above, with enhanced mandatory prison time. |
| Attempted Robbery | Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | Conviction for attempt carries nearly the same weight as the completed crime. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every available legal avenue. For an armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas clients can rely on, our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper who understand how the other side builds a case.
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 Advocacy
While specific results are confidential, our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In complex felony cases, our strategy often involves challenging the prosecution’s evidence on intent and identification early in the process. Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney, provides strategic oversight on serious matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Robbery Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a trusted robbery defense lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and the VRE station. We serve the communities of Manassas. 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Yes, there is a major difference. Robbery involves force or intimidation. Armed robbery specifically involves displaying, using, or threatening to use a firearm or other deadly weapon. Armed robbery carries severe mandatory minimum prison sentences under Va. Code § 18.2-58.
Can a robbery charge be reduced to a misdemeanor?
It depends. Robbery itself is always a felony. However, through negotiation with a skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas, it may be possible to have the charge amended to a lesser felony like grand larceny or a misdemeanor assault, depending on the evidence and circumstances of the case.
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 will also challenge illegal searches, coerced confessions, and unreliable eyewitness identifications.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery charge in Manassas?
Yes. Robbery is a serious felony with life-altering penalties. The Manassas Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases. A defense lawyer is essential to protect your rights, challenge evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and provide a strong defense at trial in Manassas Circuit Court.
Where are robbery cases heard in Manassas?
Felony robbery charges start with a preliminary hearing at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue). If the judge finds probable cause, the case is sent to the Manassas Circuit Court for a potential jury trial. Misdemeanor theft or related charges may be handled entirely in General District Court.
Internal Links: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, our page for Fairfax criminal defense, or learn about DUI defense in Manassas.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your specific situation.