Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Fauquier County, Virginia
An obstruction of justice charge in Fauquier County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of obstruction or resisting arrest in Fauquier County.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fauquier County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. This statute makes it a crime to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. The law covers a range of actions, including providing false information, physically interfering, or fleeing to avoid arrest. In Fauquier County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fauquier County General District Court located at 6 Court Street, Warrenton, VA 20186. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record that can impact employment, housing, and professional licenses.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Fauquier County General District Court website.
Defending Obstruction Charges in Fauquier County
Successfully defending an obstruction charge requires a detailed understanding of the officer’s actions and your rights. In Fauquier County, prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly to obstruct. Common defenses include arguing a lack of intent, that the officer was not lawfully engaged in official duties, or that your conduct did not meet the legal definition of obstruction. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Fauquier County can challenge the evidence and seek a favorable resolution.
- Secure legal representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports, body camera footage, and witness statements.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge any procedural errors or seek suppression of evidence.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal, if possible.
- If no favorable plea is offered, we prepare for and conduct a bench trial in General District Court.
- If convicted in GDC, we can note an appeal for a new trial in Fauquier County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Fauquier County
In Fauquier County, obstruction of justice is typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction of Justice (Va. Code § 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; possible probation |
| Resisting Arrest (Va. Code § 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside obstruction; enhances penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand the local procedures at the Fauquier County General District Court and are committed to providing a strong, case-specific defense for every client.
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
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal cases. In Fauquier County, we have secured results including charges being reduced or amended. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting, provides strategic oversight on complex matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Criminal Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fauquier County courts (6 Court Street). We are accessible via I-66, Route 29, and Route 17. As a obstruction of justice defense lawyer Fauquier County near Warrenton, we serve the communities of Warrenton, New Baltimore, Bealeton, Marshall, and The Plains.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for obstruction of justice in Fauquier County?
Obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The exact penalty depends on the facts of the case and your prior record.
Can I be charged with both obstruction and resisting arrest?
Yes. Resisting arrest is a form of obstruction under Va. Code § 18.2-460. It is common for prosecutors to charge both offenses based on the same incident, which can increase potential penalties.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge in Fauquier County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record. An experienced resisting arrest defense lawyer Fauquier County can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a reduction, or take your case to trial to protect your rights and future.
What are common defenses to obstruction charges?
Common defenses include lack of intent to obstruct, that the officer was not engaged in lawful duties, mistaken identity, or that your actions were protected speech. Your attorney will analyze the specific facts to build the strongest defense.
Where are obstruction cases heard in Fauquier County?
Misdemeanor obstruction cases are heard at the Fauquier County General District Court (6 Court Street, Warrenton). You have a right to appeal a conviction to the Fauquier County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Fauquier County, you may also need information on Virginia criminal defense. For representation in nearby areas, see our pages for Fairfax County criminal defense and Prince William County criminal defense. For other legal needs in Fauquier County, consider DUI defense or family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of 2026-02-15. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.