What happens at a DUI arraignment in Manassas

A DUI arraignment in Manassas, Virginia, is the first court hearing you attend after being arrested for driving under the influence. At this hearing, held before a judge in the Manassas General District Court, you will be formally informed of the DUI charge against you, advised of your rights, and asked to enter a plea of guilty, not guilty, or nolo contendere. The arraignment is not the trial—no evidence is presented and no witnesses testify. It is a procedural step that sets the course of your case. Understanding what to expect can reduce anxiety and help you make informed decisions. If you are facing a DUI charge in Manassas, legal guidance from a team experienced in Virginia courts can make a critical difference. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a confidential consultation. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

What happens at a DUI arraignment in Manassas — step by step

When you appear at the Manassas General District Court, you will be called before the judge in open court. The proceeding is typically brief—often only a few minutes. The judge will read the DUI charge aloud, confirm your identity, and ensure you understand the accusation. The charge will reference Va. Code § 18.2-266, which defines driving while intoxicated. You will also be advised of your right to an attorney and, if you cannot afford one, the court will consider appointing counsel. After the advisement, you will be asked to enter a plea. The three standard options are not guilty, guilty, or nolo contendere (no contest).

If you plead not guilty, the court will set a trial date, typically within several weeks, and you will be given an opportunity to discuss your case with your attorney. If you plead guilty or no contest, the judge may proceed to sentencing at a later date, or, in some cases, impose sentence immediately. It is strongly advisable to have an experienced attorney with you at the arraignment to advise you on the plea decision, identify any procedural errors in the charging documents, and, if appropriate, request a continuance to prepare your defense. The arraignment can also involve bail or bond considerations if you were held in custody. The court may set or modify bond conditions based on factors such as your ties to the community and prior record. Your attorney can advocate for a reasonable bond so you can remain free while your case proceeds. The entire hearing takes place at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110. Knowing the court layout and local practice gives you an advantage, which is why retaining an attorney familiar with Manassas courts is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a DUI arraignment in Manassas?

The arraignment formally notifies the defendant of the DUI charge, informs them of their rights, and allows them to enter a plea. It is the initial court appearance and a procedural checkpoint, not a trial. The judge ensures the defendant understands the allegations and the possible consequences. This hearing also begins the clock on certain procedural deadlines, so timely legal advice is critical. For anyone facing a DUI in Manassas, appearing at the arraignment without an attorney can put you at a disadvantage because decisions made at this stage can affect later defenses. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for experienced guidance.

Do I need a lawyer for a DUI arraignment in Manassas?

You have the right to appear without a lawyer, but having experienced legal counsel present is strongly recommended. A DUI conviction carries serious consequences, including jail time, license suspension, and a permanent criminal record. An attorney can evaluate the charge, advise on the appropriate plea, and identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case—even at this early stage. In Virginia, a first-offense DUI is a Class 1 misdemeanor. An attorney can also negotiate bond conditions or request a continuance if more time is needed to build a defense. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel team practice regularly in Manassas and can appear with you at the Manassas General District Court.

What plea should I enter at a DUI arraignment in Virginia?

The safest initial plea is almost always not guilty, unless your attorney advises otherwise based on a specific strategy. Pleading not guilty preserves your right to challenge the evidence, including the traffic stop, field sobriety tests, breath test results, and any procedural errors. Even if you believe you are guilty, an attorney may negotiate a reduced charge or alternative disposition after reviewing the evidence. Pleading guilty without counsel may result in immediate sentencing and the full statutory penalties. Only enter a guilty or no contest plea after consulting with counsel who understands how the Manassas Commonwealth’s Attorney handles DUI cases.

What happens if I fail to appear at the arraignment?

Failing to appear at a scheduled DUI arraignment in Manassas will likely result in a bench warrant for your arrest. The judge may also revoke any bond and order you held until a new hearing. A failure-to-appear charge may be added, compounding your legal situation. If you have a legitimate reason you cannot attend, contact your attorney immediately to request a continuance. It is far better to have counsel appear on your behalf or seek a postponement than to miss your court date. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can assist if you are concerned about making your court appearance.

Can I get a continuance or delay the arraignment?

Yes, the Manassas General District Court often grants continuances for good cause, such as the need to hire an attorney or gather evidence. Your lawyer can make the request on your behalf. A brief delay can provide critical time to review the police report, obtain video footage, or consult with potential witnesses. The court will weigh the reason for the request and the impact on the judicial calendar. Having counsel already retained makes the process smoother and increases the likelihood the continuance will be granted. If you need time, contact your lawyer before the scheduled arraignment date.

What are the penalties for a first-offense DUI in Virginia?

A first-offense DUI in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor with a maximum sentence of 12 months in jail and a fine, plus mandatory license suspension. The specifics are outlined in Va. Code § 18.2-270. The court will also require the convicted person to complete the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP) and may order the installation of an ignition interlock device. Additional consequences include a criminal record, increased insurance rates, and a loss of driving privileges for one year (with the possibility of a restricted license). The outcome depends heavily on the facts, the skill of your defense, and whether you have prior offenses. Early intervention by an experienced attorney can sometimes lead to a reduced charge or alternative resolution.

Will the judge set bail at the arraignment?

If you were arrested and held in custody, the judge will address bail or bond at your arraignment. The court considers factors such as the nature of the offense, your criminal history, ties to the community, and whether you are considered a flight risk. For a first-offense DUI with no aggravating circumstances, release on personal recognizance or a minimal bond is common. Your attorney can present arguments for a lower bond or release without payment. If bond is set, you or a family member must post it before you are released. Having counsel at the arraignment can make a significant difference in the bond decision.

How is a DUI arraignment different in General District Court compared to Circuit Court?

A first-offense DUI is a misdemeanor, so the arraignment and all trial proceedings occur in the General District Court, not the Circuit Court. The General District Court does not have jury trials; the judge decides guilt or innocence after a bench trial. If convicted in the General District Court, the defendant has an automatic right to appeal to the Circuit Court within ten days. At that point, the Circuit Court holds a new trial (de novo) where a jury may be requested. So the arraignment and initial case are handled entirely at the lower court level, but your attorney will already be thinking about the appeal strategy when choosing a plea.

What happens after the arraignment if I plead not guilty?

After a not-guilty plea, the judge will set a trial date, typically four to eight weeks later, and your attorney will begin preparing your defense. The discovery process allows your lawyer to obtain the police report, breath-test calibration records, dashcam or bodycam footage, and other evidence. Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the legality of the stop. Plea negotiations with the Commonwealth’s Attorney can occur during this time. Your presence is not required at every procedural step, but you must attend the trial. The period between arraignment and trial is when the most impactful legal work happens.

Can a DUI charge be reduced or dismissed at the arraignment?

A DUI charge is rarely dismissed at the arraignment itself, but your attorney can begin the process that may lead to a reduced charge or dismissal later. At the arraignment, the Commonwealth typically has not yet turned over all evidence, and the judge will not entertain substantive motions. However, your lawyer can identify grounds for dismissal—such as an illegal stop or insufficient probable cause—and begin laying the groundwork for a future motion. In some cases, if the defendant is accepted into a diversion program, the arraignment may be brief and the case continued pending completion. An attorney with experience in Manassas can explain what outcomes are realistic given the local courthouse culture.

What should I bring to my DUI arraignment in Manassas?

Bring a government-issued photo ID, your summons or bond paperwork, and any communication from the court. Dress conservatively and arrive early. Do not bring weapons, food, or electronic devices that are prohibited by the court’s security screening. If you have retained an attorney, bring the attorney’s contact information. Having your materials organized allows your lawyer to quickly assess your situation and advise you before the hearing. For assistance preparing for your arraignment, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., founded the firm in 1997. He is a former prosecutor who brings firsthand insight into how the prosecution builds DUI cases. Mr. Sris testified before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova). He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. At his side, his Of Counsel team includes attorneys with extensive experience in Virginia traffic and criminal defense, including former law enforcement officers who understand police procedures. Together, Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience to every case. Results may vary. For a consultation about your DUI matter in Manassas, reach the firm at (888) 437-7747.

Additional local resources:

• Prince William County traffic lawyer
• Manassas Park traffic lawyer
• Fairfax County traffic lawyer
• Fairfax City traffic lawyer

Authoritative sources:

• Virginia Code Title 18.2 (DUI statutes)
• Manassas General District Court
• Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles

Last reviewed: July 2026

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