Strangulation Lawyer Manassas — Defending Against Serious Domestic Assault Charges
Strangulation is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, carrying up to 5 years in prison. If you are charged in Manassas, you need a dedicated strangulation lawyer Manassas from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our team, including former prosecutors, understands the intense scrutiny these cases receive at Manassas General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Strangulation Law & Penalties
In Virginia, strangulation resulting in wounding or injury is prosecuted as a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. The law defines strangulation as impeding blood circulation or breathing by applying pressure to the neck or throat, or blocking the nose and mouth. A conviction can result in 1 to 5 years in prison, though a jury or judge can reduce the penalty to up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. When the act is against a family or household member, it is classified as domestic strangulation, which carries the same felony penalties and creates a permanent criminal record.
For more details, you can review the official Virginia strangulation statute (Va. Code § 18.2-51.6). Court procedures for these cases are handled at the Manassas General District Court for preliminary hearings, with trials occurring in Circuit Court.
- Secure immediate legal representation after arrest or being served with a warrant.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all evidence, including police reports, medical records, and 911 calls.
- A defense strategy is developed, which may involve challenging the evidence of injury, arguing self-defense, or negotiating for a reduced charge.
- Your case will proceed through Manassas General District Court for a preliminary hearing, then to Circuit Court for trial or final disposition.
Potential Penalties for a Strangulation Conviction
In Manassas, a strangulation conviction under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 is a Class 6 felony, punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison, or at the court’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (Va. Code § 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, protective orders, impact on custody/immigration. |
| Domestic Strangulation | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison (or up to 12 months jail) | Up to $2,500 | None | Mandatory completion of a batterers’ intervention program, possible no-contact orders. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience, our firm has a documented record of 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We actively practice in Manassas courts and understand the local procedures. Our approach in strangulation cases involves a meticulous review of the facts, witness statements, and medical evidence to protect your future.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’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 & Client Advocacy
Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. While specific results depend on unique case facts, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder with a background in accounting and information systems—applies rigorous analysis to every case. We examine police procedure, witness credibility, and the specific elements the prosecution must prove.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Strangulation Defense Lawyer Near Manassas, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a trusted strangulation lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown Manassas, serving the Manassas community.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Strangulation Charges in Manassas
Is strangulation always a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, strangulation that results in wounding or bodily injury is a Class 6 felony. The prosecution must prove the act of strangulation and a resulting injury, however minor.
What is the difference between a strangulation charge and a domestic strangulation charge?
It depends on the victim’s relationship to the accused. The criminal act and penalties are identical under the statute. However, if the victim is a family or household member, it is classified as a domestic strangulation charge. This designation can affect bail arguments, lead to mandatory counseling orders, and influence sentencing.
Can a strangulation charge be reduced or dismissed?
Yes. A skilled domestic strangulation lawyer Manassas can seek reduction or dismissal by challenging the evidence of injury, presenting evidence of self-defense, or negotiating based on the specific facts and your background. Outcomes depend on the strength of the evidence and the defense presented.
What should I do if I am charged with strangulation in Manassas?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Second, contact a strangulation charge defense lawyer Manassas immediately. An attorney can protect your rights during questioning, seek your release on bond, and begin investigating the case to build your defense from the start.
How long does a strangulation case take in Manassas?
A typical felony strangulation case may take 3 to 9 months to resolve. It starts with a preliminary hearing in Manassas General District Court to determine probable cause. If bound over, the case proceeds to Circuit Court for trial or plea negotiations. Complex cases can take longer.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing a strangulation charge, you may also want to learn about criminal defense in Manassas or DUI defense in Manassas. For a broader view of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub or read about similar cases in Fairfax.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.