DUI / DWI Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
In Manassas, a DUI is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-266, carrying up to 12 months in jail, a $250+ fine, and a 12-month license revocation; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has firm-wide experience with 4,739+ documented case results. Our former Virginia State Trooper, Bryan Block, provides a unique perspective on police procedures and evidence challenges specific to Manassas General District Court.
A DUI charge in Manassas requires immediate action to protect your driving privileges and avoid mandatory jail time for high BAC levels.
Virginia DUI Law in Manassas
Virginia law defines driving under the influence (DUI) as operating a motor vehicle with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of 0.08% or higher, or while impaired by alcohol, drugs, or a combination. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-266, is strictly enforced in Manassas. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, focuses on the precise application of these laws in local courts.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-266
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-266 (DUI/DWI statute) — Official Virginia General Assembly code.
- Manassas General District Court website — Official .gov site for court information.
Manassas DUI Court Process
Your DUI case will begin at the Manassas General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue. Virginia’s implied consent law means refusing a breath test after arrest triggers a separate administrative license suspension.
- Arraignment: You must appear in court within 48 hours of arrest to hear the formal charges.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney obtains police reports, calibration records, and any video footage.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your lawyer may file motions to challenge the stop or suppress evidence.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case proceeds to a bench trial in GDC or may be negotiated for a reduction.
- Sentencing or Appeal: If convicted, sentencing occurs immediately. You have 10 days to appeal to Circuit Court.
- Post-Conviction Requirements: You must enroll in VASAP and address license restrictions with the DMV.
DUI Penalties in Manassas
In Manassas, a DUI conviction carries severe penalties including jail time, fines, and long-term license revocation, with mandatory minimum sentences for high BAC levels.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| First DUI (BAC < 0.15) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | $250 minimum | 12-month revocation | Mandatory VASAP |
| First DUI (BAC 0.15-0.20) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | 5-day mandatory minimum | $250 minimum | 12-month revocation | Mandatory VASAP, Ignition Interlock |
| First DUI (BAC 0.20+) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | 10-day mandatory minimum | $250 minimum | 12-month revocation | Mandatory VASAP, Ignition Interlock |
| Second DUI (within 5 years) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | 20-day mandatory minimum | $500 minimum | 3-year revocation | Mandatory VASAP, Ignition Interlock |
| Third DUI (within 10 years) | Class 6 Felony | 90-day mandatory minimum | $1,000 minimum | Indefinite revocation | Mandatory VASAP, Felony Record |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are defined by statute; the outcome in any specific case depends on its unique facts and circumstances.
Filing fees and costs include a VASAP enrollment fee (approximately $300), court costs (~$62), and ignition interlock installation and monthly fees.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. The firm’s attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. Our approach is global advocacy with local precision for clients in Manassas.
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
Firm-wide, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local DUI Defense in Manassas
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. As a DUI lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown, we represent clients throughout the Manassas area.
We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a first DUI in Manassas, Virginia?
First DUI in Manassas: Class 1 misdemeanor — up to 12 months jail, $250 minimum fine, 12-month license revocation, mandatory VASAP. BAC 0.15-0.20: mandatory 5 days jail. BAC 0.20+: mandatory 10 days. Cases at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110).
Is a DUI a felony in Manassas, Virginia?
First/second DUI in Manassas is a Class 1 misdemeanor. Third DUI within 10 years is a Class 6 felony (1-5 years, mandatory 90 days jail, indefinite revocation). Cases at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110).
What happens if I refuse a breathalyzer in Manassas, Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-268.3, refusal triggers: first offense — 12-month administrative suspension (no restricted license); second — 3-year suspension plus Class 1 misdemeanor. This runs also to DUI penalties.
Can a DUI be reduced in Manassas, Virginia?
Yes. A DUI in Manassas can potentially be reduced to reckless driving, which avoids mandatory license revocation and VASAP. Defense strategies include challenging the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, and breath test calibration.
What is the timeline for a DUI case in Manassas?
Arraignment is within 48 hours of arrest or summons. A General District Court trial typically occurs 30-90 days later. VASAP enrollment is required within 15 days of conviction. An appeal to Circuit Court must be filed within 10 days of a GDC conviction.
Related Legal Services
- Virginia DUI/DWI Lawyer — Statewide hub page.
- Fairfax County DUI Lawyer — Serving a neighboring locality.
- Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyer — Related practice area in Manassas.
- Attorney Kristen Fisher Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for updated guidance.