Obstruction of justice in Fairfax County is a serious offense under Virginia law, often charged alongside other crimes. An obstruction of justice lawyer Fairfax County Virginia from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s case. With 501 documented criminal case results in Fairfax County, our firm has the experience to defend you. Call (888) 437-7747 for a 24/7 consultation.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law and Penalties
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. It involves knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other official in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, fleeing, or physically interfering. The statute covers misdemeanor and felony levels, with penalties ranging from jail time to prison.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has defended clients against complex charges. Our obstruction attorney understands that these charges often stem from tense police encounters.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly statute)
- Fairfax County General District Court website
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges in Fairfax
Fairfax County General District Court handles misdemeanor obstruction trials. The key local procedural fact is that these charges are frequently added during other arrests, making a coordinated defense critical. An obstruction defense lawyer must review the entire police encounter.
- Receive a summons or warrant for an obstruction charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road).
- Your lawyer will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss if the officer lacked legal cause.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- Appeal to Fairfax County Circuit Court if convicted and you have grounds.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction of Justice
In Fairfax County, obstruction of justice carries penalties from 12 months in jail for a misdemeanor to 5 years in prison for a felony, depending on the specific act and whether force was used.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing Justice (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Obstructing Justice (Felony – Force) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Obstruction Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a track record of 4,739+ case results firm-wide. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” approach means we fight aggressively for every client. For obstruction charges stemming from a difficult police encounter defense, our insight is crucial.
Documented Case Results in Fairfax County
Our firm has 501 documented criminal case results in Fairfax County, including 336 dismissed/not guilty findings and 143 reduced/amended charges, resulting in a 97% favorable outcome rate. These results include cases involving resisting charges and other offenses often paired with obstruction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our secondary attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, brings strategic oversight to complex cases. His background in accounting and systems provides an edge in cases with financial or technical evidence.
Obstruction of Justice Lawyer Near Fairfax County, VA
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are your local obstruction of justice lawyer near Fairfax County, accessible from major highways. We serve Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Phone: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
FAQs: Obstruction of Justice Charges in Fairfax County
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
It is a crime under Va. Code § 18.2-460 involving knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer or other official. Acts can include giving false ID, fleeing, or physically interfering.
Can I go to jail for obstruction of justice?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail. A felony obstruction charge can result in 1-10 years in prison.
What should I do if charged with obstruction?
Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Contact an obstruction of justice lawyer Fairfax County Virginia immediately. Your defense often hinges on challenging the legality of the initial police stop or arrest.
Can an obstruction charge be dropped?
It depends. If your lawyer can show the officer lacked probable cause or that your actions did not meet the legal definition of obstruction, the charge may be dismissed or reduced. Many of our 501 Fairfax results involved dismissals.
Why do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge?
An experienced obstruction defense lawyer knows how to attack the Commonwealth’s case. They can file motions to suppress evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at trial in Fairfax County General District Court.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.