Obstruction Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia
An obstruction of justice charge in King George County is a serious offense under Virginia law, often carrying jail time and a permanent criminal record. As an obstruction defense lawyer King George County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in this jurisdiction, with 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
In Virginia, obstruction of justice is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it illegal to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. This can include actions like providing false identification, fleeing from an officer, or physically interfering with an arrest. The specific elements and penalties depend on whether the charge is classified as a misdemeanor or a felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of Virginia’s obstruction statutes, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-460. Court information for King George County can be found on the Virginia Courts website.
Defending Obstruction Charges in King George County
An obstruction defense lawyer King George County must understand local court procedures. At the King George County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly to obstruct justice. A common defense is that you lacked the intent to obstruct, perhaps due to confusion or a misunderstanding of the officer’s commands. For a resisting arrest charge, a defense may be that the officer lacked probable cause for the initial arrest, making any resistance legally justified.
- Initial Consultation: Contact an obstruction defense lawyer immediately after arrest or charge.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain police reports and evidence to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Pre-Trial Strategy: Your lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or challenge the legality of the police encounter.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, your attorney will seek a dismissal, reduction, or prepare for a bench trial in General District Court.
- Appeal if Necessary: If convicted in GDC, you have an automatic right to appeal for a new trial in King George County Circuit Court.
Penalties for Obstruction of Justice in Virginia
In King George County, obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. However, certain actions, like obstructing while causing bodily injury, can elevate the charge to a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction of Justice (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record |
| Obstructing w/ Bodily Injury | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of rights |
| Resisting Arrest | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. With over 120 years of combined attorney experience and more than 4,739 case results firm-wide, we have a deep understanding of Virginia’s criminal justice system. Our team includes attorneys with firsthand experience from both sides of the courtroom, which we use to build effective defense strategies for clients facing charges like obstruction of justice.
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
In King George County, our firm has documented case results for criminal defense. We have achieved dismissals and not-guilty verdicts for our clients.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients in King George County. We are accessible via Route 3 and Route 301. If you need an obstruction of justice defense lawyer King George County or a resisting arrest defense lawyer King George County, we are here to help.
Service Areas: King George, Dahlgren.
Availability: 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
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, obstruction of justice involves knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official in their duties. This can include giving false information, fleeing, or physically interfering. It is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can obstruction charges be dropped in King George County?
It depends. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer can seek a dismissal by challenging the evidence or proving a lack of intent. Prosecutors may drop charges if the officer’s conduct is questionable or if a plea agreement on a related charge is reached. Outcomes vary by case.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction is a broader charge covering any act that hinders an officer. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction that involves preventing an officer from lawfully arresting you. Both are Class 1 misdemeanors in Virginia and are often charged together.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction can result in jail time and a permanent record that affects employment and housing. A lawyer can protect your rights, negotiate with prosecutors, and build a defense to seek a dismissal or reduced charge.
What are the penalties for obstruction of justice?
A Class 1 misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the obstruction causes bodily injury, it becomes a Class 5 felony with 1-10 years in prison. A conviction creates a permanent criminal record.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub, or learn about related issues like DUI defense in King George County. You can also read about our team’s experience on attorney profiles.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.