Obstruction of Justice Lawyer Near Me
If you are searching for an obstruction of justice lawyer near you in Northern Virginia, you are facing a charge that carries serious consequences under Virginia law. Obstruction of justice, codified at Va. Code § 18.2-460, is not a minor infraction. A conviction can result in jail time, fines, and a permanent criminal record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. represents individuals charged with obstruction of justice in Arlington, Fairfax, Alexandria, and throughout the Commonwealth. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of the firm, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring extensive experience to criminal defense matters. To request a consultation, call (888) 437-7747. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.
What Obstruction of Justice Means Under Virginia Law
Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, a person commits obstruction of justice by knowingly obstructing a judge, magistrate, juror, attorney for the Commonwealth, witness, law enforcement officer, or other officer of the court in the performance of their duties. The offense is generally charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, which carries a maximum penalty of twelve months in jail and a fine. When the obstruction involves threats of bodily harm, force, or impersonation of a law enforcement officer, the charge escalates to a Class 5 felony. A felony conviction can mean one to ten years in prison—or, at the discretion of a jury, up to twelve months and a fine. These penalties are governed by the Virginia sentencing statutes and apply in every court in the Commonwealth, from the Arlington General District Court to the Arlington Circuit Court.
An obstruction charge often arises during an encounter with police. A person may be accused of refusing to follow an officer’s lawful order, providing false identification, or physically interfering with an arrest. Because the line between protected speech and obstruction can be thin, cases frequently turn on the specific facts of the interaction. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys, including those with prior law enforcement experience, understand how these charges are built and how they can be challenged in court.
How a Virginia Obstruction of Justice Charge Proceeds Through the Courts
In Northern Virginia, a misdemeanor obstruction charge begins in the General District Court. That court conducts the arraignment, hears any pretrial motions, and, if the case is not resolved, proceeds to trial. A defendant who is convicted in General District Court has an absolute right to appeal the conviction to the Circuit Court, where the case is heard de novo—meaning the Circuit Court will hear the evidence as if no prior trial had occurred. A felony obstruction charge proceeds through a preliminary hearing in the General District Court before it is certified to the Circuit Court for trial. The firm’s attorneys appear regularly in the General District and Circuit Courts of Arlington County, Fairfax County, the City of Alexandria, and surrounding jurisdictions. Mr. Sris, a former prosecutor, and the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys work toward a resolution that protects the client’s record, freedom, and future. Results may vary.
About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Mr. Sris, the Owner and Founder, is a former prosecutor. He 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. The firm’s Of Counsel attorneys bring diverse backgrounds, including prior service as a Virginia State Trooper and as a Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney. This collective experience informs the defense strategy for every obstruction of justice case the firm handles.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if I am facing obstruction of justice charges in Virginia?
Contact a criminal defense attorney immediately and do not discuss the case with anyone else. Any statement you make to law enforcement or others can be used against you. An attorney can review the evidence, identify potential defenses, and advise you on how to proceed. In Northern Virginia, the court process moves quickly, so early legal guidance is important. Reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to request a consultation.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against obstruction of justice charges?
A defense may challenge whether the officer’s order was lawful, whether the defendant’s conduct was truly obstructive, and whether any statements fall under First Amendment protection. Physical interference is more straightforward to prove than verbal obstruction, which may be protected speech. The firm’s attorneys examine the arrest report, body-worn camera footage, and witness statements to build the strong $1 under the facts of the case.
Is obstruction of justice a misdemeanor or a felony in Virginia?
Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, simple obstruction of a law enforcement officer or court official is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If the obstruction involves a threat of bodily harm, the use of force, or impersonation of a law enforcement officer, it becomes a Class 5 felony. The distinction turns on the specific allegations in the charging document. An attorney can explain the charge you face and the potential consequences.
Can obstruction of justice charges be dropped in Virginia?
Yes, a prosecutor may decide to drop the charge—through a nolle prosequi—if the evidence does not support the accusation or if a legal defense is strong. In some cases, the Commonwealth’s Attorney may also agree to amend the charge to a lesser offense. Whether a nolle prosequi or an amendment is possible depends on the facts of the case and the strength of the evidence. The firm’s attorneys can assess whether such an outcome is achievable.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge in Arlington?
Yes, representation by an experienced attorney is essential because even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and a permanent record. An obstruction charge can affect employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. An attorney can negotiate with the prosecutor, present mitigating evidence, and protect your rights at trial. The firm’s attorneys are familiar with the Arlington General District Court and the Arlington Circuit Court and appear in those courts regularly.
How do I find an obstruction of justice lawyer near me in Northern Virginia?
Start by identifying a firm that concentrates its practice on Virginia criminal defense and whose attorneys regularly appear in the local courts where your case is pending. Look for experience with the specific charge, familiarity with the local judges and prosecutors, and a record of favorable results. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has represented clients in obstruction cases across Northern Virginia since 1997. To discuss your situation, call (888) 437-7747.
What is the difference between obstruction of justice and resisting arrest?
Obstruction of justice generally involves interfering with an officer’s duties, while resisting arrest specifically involves preventing a law enforcement officer from making an arrest. The two charges can overlap, and a person may face both. Both are serious under Virginia law. An attorney can explain the charges and the potential defenses applicable to each.
Will an obstruction conviction stay on my record forever in Virginia?
A conviction for obstruction of justice generally remains on your criminal record, but a charge that is dismissed, nolle prossed, or results in an acquittal may be eligible for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Virginia’s 2021 record-sealing framework also provides for sealing of certain records under specific conditions. An attorney can advise whether your charge is eligible for expungement or sealing.
How much does an obstruction of justice lawyer cost?
Fees vary depending on the complexity of the case, the court in which it is pending, and the amount of time required for investigation and trial preparation. The firm offers consultations by appointment. During that consultation, you can discuss the facts of your case and receive information about the cost of representation. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a consultation.
How long does an obstruction of justice case take in Virginia?
The timeline depends on the court’s calendar, the complexity of the case, and whether the charge is a misdemeanor or a felony. Misdemeanor cases in General District Court are typically resolved faster than felony cases in Circuit Court. An attorney can give you a better estimate after reviewing the specifics of your case and the current court schedule.
What happens if I miss my court date for an obstruction charge?
Missing a court date can result in the judge issuing a capias—a bench warrant for your arrest. You may also face an additional charge of failure to appear. If you have missed a court date, contact an attorney immediately. An attorney may be able to move the court to recall the capias and reschedule the hearing.
Obstruction of Justice Defense in Arlington and Northern Virginia
The firm’s Fairfax Location serves clients in Arlington, Fairfax, Alexandria, Loudoun County, Prince William County, and across Northern Virginia. By appointment only. Call (888) 437-7747 to schedule.
Virginia Code: Virginia Code Title 18.2 (Crimes and Offenses) •
Virginia Courts: Virginia Judicial System
Related Practice Areas:
Virginia Criminal Defense •
Arlington Assault Lawyer •
Arlington Disorderly Conduct Lawyer
Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Results may vary.
Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.