DUI / DWI Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia
A DUI charge in Manassas requires immediate action to protect your driving privileges and avoid jail. Contact us at (888) 437-7747.
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 of both (Va. Code § 18.2-266). The statute applies uniformly across the state, including in the City of Manassas. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, uses this legal knowledge to build defenses.
Last verified: March 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s DUI statutes, visit the Va. Code § 18.2-266 (official Virginia General Assembly). For information about the court handling your case, see the Manassas General District Court website.
Manassas DUI Court Process
Manassas General District Court hears first and second DUI charges. A third DUI within 10 years is a Class 6 felony heard in Manassas Circuit Court. Virginia’s implied consent law means refusing a breath test after arrest results in a separate administrative license suspension.
- Secure legal representation: Contact a DUI defense attorney immediately after arrest. Do not discuss your case with anyone else.
- Prepare for arraignment: Attend your scheduled arraignment at Manassas General District Court within 48 hours. Your attorney will enter a plea on your behalf.
- Review evidence and file motions: Your attorney will obtain discovery from the Commonwealth’s Attorney and file pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or procedural errors.
- Attend trial or negotiate resolution: Proceed to trial in GDC or negotiate a potential plea agreement, such as a reduction to reckless driving.
- Comply with court orders: If convicted, enroll in VASAP, pay fines, and comply with any license restrictions or ignition interlock requirements.
DUI Penalties in Manassas
In Manassas, a DUI carries penalties from fines and license suspension to mandatory jail time, depending on your BAC and prior record.
| 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, possible vehicle forfeiture |
Results may vary. The penalties listed are defined by statute; the outcome in your specific case depends on the facts and evidence.
Filing Fees & Costs: VASAP enrollment ~$300; restricted license application $40; ignition interlock installation ~$100 plus $70-$100/month; court costs ~$62; towing/impound fees $150-$500+.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys have over 120 years of combined legal experience. We maintain a focus on full representation in DUI and traffic defense across Virginia. “Global advocacy. Local precision.”
Kristen Fisher, Senior Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in MD, VA. Former MD Assistant State’s Attorney. View Kristen Fisher’s Profile
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our attorneys actively practice in Manassas General District Court.
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 (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. As a DUI lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park, we represent clients throughout the Manassas area and surrounding communities.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
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. Cases at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110).
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. Cases at Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110).
What is the timeline for a DUI case in Manassas?
Arraignment is within 48 hours of arrest or summons. 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 Information
Virginia DUI Lawyer | Fairfax County DUI Lawyer | Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyer | Attorney Profile
Last verified: March 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.