Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia
Obstruction of justice is a serious charge in Prince William County, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 141 documented criminal case results in Prince William County.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is 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 information, physically interfering, or fleeing to avoid arrest. The charge is often paired with resisting arrest, which is addressed under a separate subsection of the same statute. The prosecution must prove you acted willfully and knowingly to hinder an official’s lawful actions.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Prince William County are handled at the Prince William County General District Court.
Defending Against Obstruction Charges in Prince William County
In Prince William County General District Court, prosecutors must prove you acted with specific intent to obstruct. A common defense is that the officer’s underlying order or arrest was unlawful, meaning you had a right to resist. Another defense is lack of knowledge—you did not know the person was an officer or that they were performing an official duty. The procedural steps often involve filing a motion to suppress evidence or statements obtained during the encounter, challenging the officer’s account, and negotiating for a reduction or dismissal before trial.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or summons.
- Your lawyer will obtain and review all police reports and body-worn camera footage.
- A defense strategy is built, often focusing on the lawfulness of the officer’s actions or your intent.
- Your attorney will represent you at all hearings in Prince William County General District Court, seeking the best possible outcome.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction of Justice
In Prince William County, obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, plus a permanent criminal record.
| 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; can affect employment, housing, professional licenses. |
| Resisting Arrest (Va. Code § 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside obstruction; indicates non-compliance to future courts. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have a documented record of 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate firm-wide. In Prince William County alone, we have 141 documented criminal case results. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and how to challenge them effectively.
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 Prince William County
Our firm has a strong record in Prince William County courts. We have 141 documented criminal case results in this locality, including 118 cases dismissed or found not guilty and 19 charges reduced or amended to lesser offenses. For example, we have successfully argued for the dismissal of obstruction charges where the officer failed to properly identify themselves or where the client’s actions did not meet the legal standard for willful obstruction. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Obstruction Defense Lawyer Near Prince William County
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County General District Court in Manassas. We are your local obstruction of justice defense lawyer Prince William County and resisting arrest defense lawyer Prince William County for communities like Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Obstruction Defense FAQs
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-460. It involves knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official in their duties, which can include giving false information or physically interfering.
Can obstruction charges be dropped in Prince William County?
Yes. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Prince William County can often get charges dropped by challenging the officer’s probable cause for the initial stop or arrest, arguing lack of intent, or negotiating a favorable resolution in exchange for dismissing related charges.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Both are under Va. Code § 18.2-460. Obstruction is a broader charge for hindering an officer’s duties. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction that involves preventing an officer from effecting a lawful arrest. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Prince William County can address the nuances of your specific charge.
What are the penalties for obstruction?
In Prince William County, obstruction is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record that can affect future employment and housing opportunities.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of obstruction?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with an obstruction defense lawyer Prince William County immediately.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about related issues for DUI defense in Prince William County. We also serve neighboring areas like Fairfax County.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.