Perjury Lawyer Richmond Virginia — Defending Against False Statement Charges
Perjury in Virginia is a serious felony offense under Va. Code § 18.2-434, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath in Richmond County General District Court or any legal proceeding, securing a skilled perjury lawyer Richmond Virginia is critical. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Last verified: April 2026 | Richmond County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Perjury Law and Defenses
In Virginia, perjury is defined as willfully giving false testimony under oath in any official proceeding, or in any sworn written declaration. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-434, classifies perjury as a Class 5 felony. This means a conviction can result in a prison sentence of 1 to 10 years, or in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500. The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the false statement was material to the proceeding and that you knowingly and willfully made the statement while under a legally administered oath.
A strong defense often hinges on challenging the element of intent or the materiality of the statement. An experienced criminal attorney can argue that any falsehood was a mistake, a misunderstanding, or not relevant to the case’s outcome. The defense may also examine the validity of the oath administration or challenge the evidence as insufficient.
- Secure Immediate Legal Counsel: Do not discuss the allegations with anyone. Contact a defense lawyer immediately to invoke your right to remain silent.
- Case Assessment & Investigation: Your attorney will obtain all transcripts, recordings, and documents related to the alleged false statement to evaluate the prosecution’s evidence.
- Develop a Defense Strategy: Based on the evidence, your lawyer will build a defense, which may focus on lack of intent, mistake, or immateriality of the statement.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your criminal court lawyer may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss charges if procedural errors or insufficient evidence is found.
- Trial or Negotiation: Your attorney will either prepare for a vigorous trial defense or negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or alternative disposition.
Potential Penalties for Perjury in Virginia
In Richmond County, a perjury conviction as a Class 5 felony carries a potential prison term of 1 to 10 years, though a jury can opt for up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-434) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but a felony record affects professional licenses | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty obtaining employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Perjury 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 track record includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a perjury charge can derail your life, and we provide a focused, strategic defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients across Virginia, including those in legal desert areas like Richmond County.
Our Approach to Perjury Cases
We approach every perjury case with a detailed investigation. We scrutinize the transcript or recording of the alleged false statement, the context in which it was made, and the administration of the oath. Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher and firm founder Mr. Sris, looks for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case, such as lack of materiality or evidence of a simple mistake rather than criminal intent. We prepare to challenge the evidence at every stage, from pre-trial motions to trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Shenandoah Valley Location — 505 N Main St, Ste 103, Woodstock, VA 22664
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (540) 459-6190
By appointment only.
Our Shenandoah Valley location serves Richmond County and the Northern Neck. We are accessible to clients in Warsaw, Montross, and Tappahannock. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747, with meetings scheduled by appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for perjury in Virginia?
Perjury is a Class 5 felony in Virginia, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. A jury can instead impose up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Can I go to jail for a simple lie in court?
It depends. The lie must be material to the proceeding, willful, and made under oath. Not every false statement rises to the level of criminal perjury. A strong criminal charges defense can argue the statement was immaterial or not made with criminal intent.
What’s the difference between perjury and making a false statement?
Perjury specifically requires a false statement made under oath in an official proceeding. Other false statement crimes, like filing a false police report, may be misdemeanors and do not require the formal setting of an oath.
Do I need a lawyer for a perjury charge?
Yes. The consequences of a felony conviction are severe and long-lasting. A perjury lawyer Richmond Virginia can challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and work towards the best possible outcome.
What are common defenses to perjury?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed the statement was true), immateriality (the lie didn’t affect the case), mistake, or that the oath was not properly administered. A criminal attorney will identify the best defense for your situation.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides defense for federal crimes and general Virginia criminal defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
Richmond is one part of a statewide practice, and our page on perjury lawyer Virginia covers the process from start to finish.