Business Lawyer in Manassas, VA
Virginia Business Law Statutes
Virginia business entities are primarily regulated by the Virginia Stock Corporation Act (Va. Code § 13.1-601 et seq.) for corporations and the Virginia LLC Act (Va. Code § 13.1-1000 et seq.) for limited liability companies. These statutes define the legal framework for formation, operation, and dissolution. The Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) is the central filing authority.
Last verified: March 2026 | Virginia State Corporation Commission | Virginia Code
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia business statutes, visit the Virginia General Assembly website for corporate laws. For filing forms and information, refer to the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC) official website.
Business Formation Process in Manassas
Business formation in Virginia is handled through the State Corporation Commission (SCC), not a local court. Filings are submitted online or by mail. All Virginia LLCs and corporations must appoint and maintain a registered agent with a physical address in the state.
- Choose your business structure (LLC, Corporation, etc.).
- Prepare and file formation documents (Articles) with the SCC.
- Draft internal governing documents (Operating Agreement or Bylaws).
- Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN) from the IRS.
- Secure necessary local and state business licenses.
- File annual reports and maintain good standing with the SCC.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
In Manassas, operating a business without proper registration or violating corporate formalities can lead to civil penalties, loss of good standing, and personal liability for owners.
| Issue | Classification | Potential Consequences | Fines/Fees |
|---|---|---|---|
| Operating without SCC registration | Civil Violation | Inability to sue in VA courts; civil penalties | Varies + late fees |
| Failure to file annual report | Administrative | Loss of good standing; eventual administrative dissolution | $50 (LLC) + penalty |
| Breach of Fiduciary Duty | Civil Liability | Personal liability for directors/officers | Monetary damages |
Results may vary. The outcomes described are not guarantees.
Firm Credentials
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. The firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to business law matters. Our tagline, “Global advocacy. Local precision,” reflects our approach to serving Manassas businesses.
Samantha Rae Powers, Associate Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA, FL. Experienced family law and civil litigator. View Samantha Rae Powers’s Profile
Case Results
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Business Law Service
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts and throughout the Manassas area, accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We are a business lawyer near Manassas National Battlefield Park and Historic Downtown Manassas.
We serve the Manassas area and surrounding communities. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings 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 first step to form a business in Virginia?
File articles of organization for an LLC or articles of incorporation for a corporation with the Virginia State Corporation Commission (SCC). The SCC filing fee is $100 for an LLC and $75 plus a registration fee for a corporation.
Do I need an operating agreement for my Virginia LLC?
Yes. Virginia law does not require an operating agreement, but having one is critical. It defines member roles, profit distribution, and procedures for adding or removing members, which helps prevent future disputes.
What are the annual requirements for a Virginia corporation?
Virginia corporations must file an annual report and pay a registration fee by the last day of the month in which the corporation was initially registered. The fee varies based on the number of authorized shares.
Can a foreign business operate in Virginia?
Yes, but it must first register with the Virginia SCC as a foreign entity before transacting business in the state. Operating without proper registration can lead to civil penalties and loss of legal standing.
What happens if a director breaches their fiduciary duty?
Directors and officers can be held personally liable for breaches of fiduciary duty, such as self-dealing or gross negligence. This can include financial damages and removal from their position within the company.
Related Legal Services
For more information, see our Virginia Business Lawyer hub page. We also assist with contract law in Manassas and civil litigation in Manassas. Learn more about Mr. Sris’s background and experience.
Last verified: March 2026. Information is current as of the verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.