Felony Strangulation Virginia Statute Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Felony strangulation in Virginia is a serious criminal charge prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-51.6, a Class 6 felony punishable by 1 to 5 years in prison. If you are charged, you need a felony strangulation Virginia statute lawyer who understands the specific elements the prosecution must prove. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense against these criminal charges in Virginia criminal court.
Virginia Felony Strangulation Statute and Definition
Virginia law defines the offense of strangulation in Va. Code § 18.2-51.6. The statute makes it unlawful to impede the blood circulation or respiration of another person by applying pressure to the neck or throat, resulting in wounding or bodily injury. This is a specific intent crime, meaning the prosecution must prove you acted intentionally, not accidentally.
Last verified: April 2026 | Statewide — court varies by locality | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience. We focus on the precise language of the statute to challenge the prosecution’s case.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-51.6 (official Virginia General Assembly website). For information on court procedures, visit the Virginia Judicial System website.
Building a Defense Against Strangulation Charges
A successful defense requires a detailed examination of the facts. The prosecution must prove specific intent to impede breathing or circulation, and that the act caused a wounding or bodily injury. Common defense strategies include arguing a lack of specific intent, that the injury was accidental, or that the alleged injury does not meet the legal threshold for “wounding.” In some cases, self-defense or defense of others may be applicable.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact our firm immediately after arrest or charge. We will secure and review all police reports, witness statements, and medical records.
- Investigate the Allegations: Our team will investigate the circumstances, including interviewing witnesses and examining the scene, to identify inconsistencies in the accuser’s story.
- Challenge the Evidence: We file motions to suppress any improperly obtained evidence or statements and challenge the prosecution’s proof of intent and injury.
- Negotiate or Prepare for Trial: Based on the evidence, we will pursue negotiations for a reduction or dismissal. If a fair plea cannot be reached, we prepare a vigorous defense for trial.
Penalties for Felony Strangulation in Virginia
In Virginia, felony strangulation is a Class 6 felony carrying a potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Strangulation (Va. Code § 18.2-51.6) | Class 6 Felony | 1 – 5 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of firearm rights, potential protective orders, immigration consequences. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings a combined 120+ years of legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the state builds its cases. We have a documented track record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious charges across Virginia.
Documented Case Results
Our firm-wide record across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC includes 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Virginia, our experienced team, including Of Counsel attorney Kristen M. Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, has successfully defended clients against serious assault-related charges by challenging evidence and negotiating favorable resolutions.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
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24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only. Serving all Virginia communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between felony strangulation and domestic assault in Virginia?
It depends. Strangulation (Va. Code § 18.2-51.6) is a specific felony requiring proof of intent to impede breathing/circulation causing injury. Domestic assault can be a misdemeanor (like simple assault) or a felony (like malicious wounding) and does not require the specific act of strangulation. The charges often overlap in domestic cases.
Can felony strangulation charges be reduced to a misdemeanor?
Yes. An experienced criminal lawyer can often negotiate a reduction to a misdemeanor assault charge, especially if the evidence of intent or injury is weak, or if the defendant has no prior record. This avoids a permanent felony conviction.
What are the long-term consequences of a felony strangulation conviction?
A conviction results in a permanent felony record, loss of voting rights while incarcerated, ineligibility for many jobs and professional licenses, loss of firearm rights, and potential deportation for non-citizens. It also severely impacts child custody and visitation cases.
Is self-defense a valid defense against a strangulation charge?
Yes. If you can prove you used reasonable force to protect yourself from imminent bodily harm, self-defense is a complete defense. The key is demonstrating that your actions were proportional to the threat you faced.
How quickly should I contact a lawyer after being charged?
Immediately. Early intervention by a criminal defense attorney is critical. We can advise you during police questioning, work to secure your release, and begin building your defense before the prosecution’s case is solidified.
Last verified: April 2026. Information updated as of this date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.