Perjury Lawyer Highland Virginia — Defending Against False Statement Charges
Perjury in Virginia is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-434, punishable as a Class 5 felony with 1-10 years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath in Highland County, you need a dedicated perjury lawyer. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense against these criminal charges. Contact us for a case review.
Last verified: April 2026 | Highland County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Perjury Law and Defenses
Perjury involves willfully giving false testimony under oath in an official proceeding. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you knew the statement was false and intended to mislead the court or tribunal. Defenses often challenge the element of intent, the materiality of the false statement, or whether you were properly under oath. A skilled criminal attorney can examine the transcript, witness credibility, and the context of your statement to build a defense.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-434 (official Virginia General Assembly). For local court procedures, visit the Virginia Courts website for Highland County General District Court.
Handling a Perjury Case in Highland County
Perjury cases in Highland typically originate from testimony given in the General District or Circuit Court. Prosecutors must show the false statement was material to the proceeding’s outcome. An experienced defense lawyer knows that early intervention is key. We analyze the charging affidavit and the underlying proceeding to identify weaknesses in the prosecution’s case.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any further statements.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all transcripts and evidence from the original proceeding.
- We will file pre-trial motions, potentially challenging the indictment or the materiality of the statement.
- Prepare a defense strategy focusing on intent, truthfulness, or recantation if applicable.
- Represent you at all hearings, from arraignment through trial or negotiation.
Potential Penalties for Perjury in Virginia
In Highland, perjury is a Class 5 felony carrying 1 to 10 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-434) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, damage to credibility. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex cases like perjury. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ documented results. Our defense team includes former prosecutors and attorneys with deep knowledge of Virginia’s court system. We understand how to defend against criminal charges effectively.
Documented Case Results
Our firm has a firm-wide record of 4,739+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC. In Highland County, our attorneys have successfully resolved cases, including achieving a “Complied With Law” disposition for a client facing charges.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah/Woodstock Location — 505 N Main St, Suite 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Woodstock location serves Highland and surrounding communities. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. If you need a perjury lawyer near Highland, contact our defense team.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is perjury a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Perjury under Va. Code § 18.2-434 is classified as a Class 5 felony, which can result in 1 to 10 years in prison.
Can I go to jail for a mistake on a sworn statement?
It depends. Perjury requires proof you willfully and knowingly made a false statement. An honest mistake or a faulty memory is not a crime. A criminal court lawyer can argue the lack of criminal intent as a defense.
What is the difference between perjury and making a false report?
Perjury specifically involves false statements made under oath in an official proceeding. Making a false report to law enforcement (Va. Code § 18.2-461) is a separate charge, often a Class 1 misdemeanor, and does not require a formal oath.
Do I need a lawyer for a perjury charge?
Yes. The penalties are severe, and the legal issues are complex. A perjury lawyer can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and work toward reducing or dismissing the charges.
What should I do if I’m accused of perjury?
Stop talking about the case immediately and contact a defense lawyer. Do not speak with investigators or prosecutors without your attorney present. Your lawyer will guide you through the next steps for your criminal charges defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Highland County cases follow the same route as the rest of the state, and our page on perjury cases in Virginia explains each stage.