Robbery Lawyer Manassas — What Are Your Defense Options?
Robbery in Manassas is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-58, punishable by 5 years to life in prison. A robbery lawyer Manassas from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s evidence on intent, identification, or use of force. Our firm has documented results defending clients at Manassas General District Court and Circuit Court. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Robbery Law and Penalties
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Robbery is defined in Virginia as the taking of personal property from another person, or from their immediate presence, against their will, by violence, intimidation, or by putting them in fear. The core statute is Va. Code § 18.2-58. This differs from larceny by requiring force or intimidation. A robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas must analyze whether the alleged act meets this specific legal threshold.
Robbery is a Class 5 felony, carrying a potential penalty of 5 to 20 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the offender uses a firearm or other deadly weapon, the charge becomes armed robbery under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1, a more severe felony. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas is critical, as convictions carry mandatory minimum prison sentences starting at 5 years.
- Initial Arrest & Bond Hearing: After arrest, a magistrate sets bond. For robbery, secured bond is common.
- Preliminary Hearing: Your case starts in Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue) where the Commonwealth must show probable cause.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If bound over, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in Manassas Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney obtains evidence and may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges.
- Trial or Plea Negotiation: The case proceeds to a jury trial in Circuit Court or may be resolved through negotiation.
- Sentencing: If convicted, the judge imposes a sentence based on guidelines and arguments from your lawyer.
Potential Penalties for Robbery in Manassas
In Manassas, a robbery conviction carries a prison sentence of 5 to 20 years as a Class 5 felony, with fines and a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58) | Class 5 Felony | 5 – 20 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, difficulty finding employment/housing. |
| Armed Robbery (Va. Code § 18.2-58.1) | Unclassified Felony | Mandatory minimum 5 years – life | Court discretion | None directly | Same as above, with significantly longer mandatory prison time. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Robbery Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex criminal cases like robbery. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing insight into how the other side builds cases. We have a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. We actively practice in Manassas courts and understand the local procedures.
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
Our defense strategies are case-specific to the specifics of each case. For a robbery charge, this may involve challenging eyewitness identification, disputing the element of force or intimidation, negotiating for a reduction to a lesser charge like grand larceny, or pursuing alternative resolutions. Co-counsel Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems is particularly valuable in cases involving financial evidence.
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 robbery lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown. We serve the Manassas community. 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
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between robbery and armed robbery in Virginia?
Robbery involves force or intimidation. Armed robbery involves displaying, using, or threatening to use a firearm or other deadly weapon during the crime, which triggers mandatory minimum prison sentences under Va. Code § 18.2-58.1.
Can a robbery charge be reduced in Manassas?
It depends. A skilled robbery charge defense lawyer Manassas may negotiate a reduction to a lesser charge like grand larceny (Va. Code § 18.2-95) if the evidence for force or intimidation is weak. This can significantly reduce potential penalties and avoid a mandatory minimum sentence.
What are common defenses to a robbery charge?
Common defenses include mistaken identity, lack of intent to steal, absence of force or intimidation, alibi, and challenging the legality of evidence obtained by police. An armed robbery defense lawyer Manassas would also examine whether an object was a deadly weapon.
Do I need a lawyer for a robbery preliminary hearing?
Yes. The preliminary hearing at Manassas General District Court is a critical stage where the Commonwealth must show probable cause. A lawyer can cross-examine witnesses and potentially get the case dismissed before it goes to Circuit Court.
Where are robbery cases heard in Manassas?
Robbery cases begin with a preliminary hearing at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue). If bound over, the felony trial is held before a jury at the Manassas Circuit Court.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Criminal Defense Lawyer in Fairfax or Manassas DUI Lawyer. Learn more about our firm on our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.