What happens at a criminal arraignment in Manassas
An arraignment is your first appearance before a judge after being charged with a crime. In Manassas, this proceeding marks the formal start of your criminal case. The judge will read the charges against you, ask you to enter a plea, address bail or release conditions, and set dates for future hearings. Misdemeanors are typically arraigned at the Manassas General District Court, while felony arraignments occur in the Manassas Circuit Court. Both courts are located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. Understanding what happens at this early stage helps you prepare and protects your rights. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represent individuals at arraignments in Manassas and throughout Northern Virginia. For a consultation about your specific situation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
Understanding the Arraignment Process in Manassas, Virginia
An arraignment is not the trial—it is a preliminary hearing designed to ensure the case proceeds efficiently. For misdemeanors, the Manassas General District Court handles arraignments and trials; for felonies, the General District Court conducts an arraignment and preliminary hearing, after which the case may transfer to the Circuit Court. The court address for both is 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110, and traffic/criminal inquiries can be directed to (703) 792-6141. The building is just off Sudley Road, near the Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown Manassas. Arrive early to locate the courtroom and check in with the clerk, Keshara Joyce Luster, or court staff.
The purpose of an arraignment is to inform you of the specific charges, your right to counsel, and your right to remain silent. In Virginia, you may be represented by a private attorney or, if you qualify, a court-appointed attorney. The judge will not take testimony or weigh evidence at this stage. The proceeding is typically brief—often a matter of minutes—but its importance cannot be overstated, as decisions made here affect bail, scheduling, and whether you will be incarcerated pending trial.
Step-by-Step: What Happens at Your Arraignment in Manassas
1. The Case Is Called
You will be seated in the courtroom gallery unless you are in custody, in which case you will be brought into the courtroom by a deputy. When your case is called, you and your attorney will approach the front of the courtroom. The judge’s bench faces the well of the court. If you are not in custody and fail to appear, the court may issue a bench warrant, which can lead to your arrest and make it harder to secure release later. It is important to arrive on time and check in with the clerk. The court is open Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. To 4:00 p.m., and arraignments are often scheduled in the morning.
2. The Charge Is Read
The judge or the court clerk will read aloud each charge filed against you. This includes the specific Virginia Code section, a brief description of the alleged offense, and whether it is a misdemeanor or a felony. For example, a simple assault charge would be under Va. Code § 18.2-57, a petit larceny charge under Va. Code § 18.2-96, and a felony assault on a family or household member under Va. Code § 18.2-57.2. The judge will then confirm that you understand the charges and your rights, including your right to an attorney. If you do not understand English well enough, an interpreter may be provided.
3. Your Plea
You will be asked how you plead. The three options are guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest). Most defense attorneys advise a not guilty plea at this stage, which preserves all options and gives your lawyer time to investigate the case, negotiate with the prosecutor, and file any motions. If you plead guilty, the judge may proceed to sentencing immediately, particularly for minor misdemeanors, though it is generally wise to consult with an attorney before doing so. In misdemeanor cases, a not guilty plea typically leads to a trial date being set. In felony cases, the not guilty plea is entered in the General District Court, and the case proceeds to a preliminary hearing date.
4. Bail and Conditions
The judge or a magistrate sets bail or release conditions. For many first-offense misdemeanors, release on personal recognizance—meaning no cash bond—is common, though the judge may impose conditions such as no contact with an alleged victim, drug or alcohol monitoring, or travel restrictions. For felonies or charges involving violence, a secured bond may be required; the judge sets a cash or surety bond amount that must be posted. If you were arrested and a magistrate already set a bond, your attorney may ask the judge to review it. The court will consider factors like ties to the community, criminal history, and the seriousness of the offense. An experienced attorney can present arguments that may result in a lower bond or release on recognizance.
5. Scheduling Future Dates
For a misdemeanor in the General District Court, the judge will set a trial date, typically about four to eight weeks after the arraignment, although the exact timing depends on the court’s calendar. For a felony, a preliminary hearing date is set, usually within 21 to 60 days from arrest. If the General District Court judge finds probable cause at the preliminary hearing, the case is certified to the Circuit Court, where a grand jury indictment and a new arraignment will follow. Circuit Court felony trials are generally scheduled three to nine months later. Virginia law provides speedy trial rights—five months from arrest for a misdemeanor, and nine months for a felony if the defendant is incarcerated—but many cases involve excludable delays. Your attorney will explain the timeline based on the particular circumstances of your case.
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 fine of up to $2,500; a Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on a suspended license (§ 46.2-301). Cases are heard at Manassas General District Court. The specific penalty depends on the charge, your criminal history, and the facts of the case. A knowledgeable attorney can help you understand the potential consequences and work toward favorable outcomes.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Manassas, Virginia?
Virginia allows expungement for charges that result in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi, under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in the Manassas Circuit Court. Certain first-offense marijuana possession cases may qualify through deferred disposition. If your record shows only an arrest without a conviction, you may be eligible to have the police and court records sealed. A criminal defense attorney can evaluate whether your particular charge qualifies for expungement.
How does bail work in Manassas, Virginia?
After an arrest, a magistrate sets an initial bond; the judge can review it at the arraignment. Personal recognizance (no cash required) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Manassas. For felonies or repeat offenses, a secured bond may be set, and a bail bondsman typically charges a nonrefundable fee of about 10% of the bond amount. Eligibility for a court-appointed attorney is based on income, and court-appointed attorney fees range from $120 for a misdemeanor to $445 or more for a felony. Your attorney can argue for lower bail or release on recognizance.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Manassas?
Yes, having an experienced attorney at your arraignment can significantly impact bail, plea strategy, and the overall direction of your case. Even a misdemeanor conviction carries potential jail time, fines, and a permanent record that can affect employment, housing, and professional licensing. Early involvement of counsel allows an attorney to review the charges, advise you on your plea, and present arguments for release. For a consultation regarding your matter, call Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Manassas?
The Manassas General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings; the Manassas Circuit Court handles felony trials and appeals from the GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying potential jail time. Misdemeanor cases often resolve in GDC, but if you are convicted there, you retain the right to appeal to the Circuit Court for a completely new trial. Both courts are located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110.
What should I bring to my arraignment in Manassas?
Bring photo identification, your copy of the summons or bond paperwork if you have it, and contact information for your attorney. Wear respectful, professional clothing. Do not bring any prohibited items into the courthouse, such as weapons. Arrive early to pass through security. If you have not yet retained a lawyer, you can ask the court for a continuance to find one, though it is best to have legal representation in place before the arraignment. For guidance on your particular situation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team
Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., has practiced criminal defense since 1997. He is a former prosecutor who brings firsthand courtroom experience to every case. He testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). Mr. Sris is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. He is supported by a team of experienced Of Counsel attorneys who have extensive backgrounds in criminal law, including a former Virginia State Trooper and a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring over 120 years of combined legal experience and 4,739+ documented firm-wide results. Results may vary.
To schedule a consultation regarding your criminal matter in Manassas, call (888) 437-7747. Our Fairfax Location at 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032 serves clients at the Manassas courts. By appointment only.
Related pages: Fairfax County criminal defense ? Prince William County criminal defense ? Manassas Park criminal defense ? Falls Church criminal defense
Virginia law resources: Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) ? Manassas General District Court ? Virginia Courts
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