In Manassas, human trafficking charges under Va. Code § 18.2-355 carry severe penalties including up to 20 years imprisonment. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4,739+ documented case results firm-wide. A Human Trafficking Lawyer Manassas can build your defense strategy. Consultation by appointment.
Virginia Human Trafficking Laws and Definitions
Virginia law defines human trafficking under Va. Code § 18.2-355 as knowingly recruiting, harboring, transporting, or obtaining a person for forced labor or commercial sex acts. The statute covers both sex trafficking and labor trafficking. A conviction carries felony penalties with mandatory minimum sentences. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these cases in Manassas General District Court for preliminary hearings and Manassas Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-355 (official Virginia General Assembly)
For the full statutory language, see Va. Code § 18.2-355 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures are governed by the Manassas General District Court website.
Insider Knowledge: Manassas Human Trafficking Defense
Manassas General District Court handles preliminary hearings for felony human trafficking charges. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Manassas prosecutes these cases aggressively. Your case then moves to Manassas Circuit Court for trial.
- Initial Arrest: You are taken before a magistrate who sets bond. Personal recognizance is rare for trafficking charges.
- Preliminary Hearing: Held in Manassas General District Court within 21-60 days. The court determines probable cause.
- Grand Jury Indictment: The case goes to a grand jury for indictment if probable cause is found.
- Arraignment: You appear in Manassas Circuit Court to enter a plea.
- Discovery and Motions: Your attorney reviews evidence and files pretrial motions.
- Trial: Felony jury trial in Manassas Circuit Court. You have an absolute right to a jury trial.
In Manassas, human trafficking under Va. Code § 18.2-355 carries a felony penalty of up to 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $100,000.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Human Trafficking (Adult) | Class 4 Felony | 2-10 years | Up to $100,000 | None specific | Sex offender registration may apply |
| Human Trafficking (Minor) | Class 3 Felony | 5-20 years | Up to $100,000 | None specific | Mandatory sex offender registration |
| Forced Labor | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years | Up to $2,500 | None specific | Restitution to victim |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for Your Manassas Human Trafficking Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth builds trafficking cases. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, demonstrating our firm’s ability to effect real change in Virginia law. We serve clients across Manassas and Prince William County.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, former prosecutor and firm founder, who provides strategic oversight on all trafficking cases.
Case Results
SRIS actively practices in Manassas — firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and Washington D.C.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Manassas Location
Our Fairfax location serves clients at Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue), accessible via I-66, Route 28, and Route 234.
Looking for a Human Trafficking Lawyer Manassas near you? We serve all neighborhoods in Manassas.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Human Trafficking Charges in Manassas
What is the difference between sex trafficking and forced labor in Virginia?
Yes. Sex trafficking involves commercial sex acts through force, fraud, or coercion. Forced labor involves involuntary work or services. Both are felonies under Va. Code § 18.2-355 with different penalty ranges.
Can human trafficking charges be reduced or dismissed in Manassas?
It depends. Dismissal is possible if evidence was obtained illegally, if you were a victim of trafficking yourself, or if the Commonwealth cannot prove force, fraud, or coercion. A Human Trafficking Lawyer Manassas can evaluate your case.
What should I do if I am arrested for human trafficking in Manassas?
No. Do not speak to police without an attorney present. Exercise your right to remain silent. Contact a Human Trafficking Lawyer Manassas immediately. Your first court appearance will be at Manassas General District Court.
How long does a human trafficking case take in Manassas?
It depends. Felony cases typically take 3-9 months from arrest to trial in Manassas Circuit Court. Complex cases involving multiple defendants or federal charges can take 1-3 years. Virginia speedy trial rights require trial within 9 months if incarcerated.
Do I need a trafficking charge defense lawyer Manassas for a first offense?
Yes. Human trafficking is a felony with mandatory minimum sentences. Even a first offense carries potential prison time and sex offender registration. A trafficking charge defense lawyer Manassas can protect your rights and build a defense strategy.
What is forced labor defense lawyer Manassas role in my case?
A forced labor defense lawyer Manassas challenges the prosecution’s evidence of force, fraud, or coercion. They may argue you were a victim of trafficking, not a perpetrator. They also negotiate with prosecutors and represent you at trial.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.