Obstruction Of Justice Lawyer Roanoke County Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
An obstruction of justice charge in Roanoke County, Virginia, is a serious offense that can lead to jail time and a permanent criminal record. Under Virginia law, these charges often stem from police encounters and can be complex to defend. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused.
Understanding Obstruction of Justice Charges in Virginia
In Virginia, obstruction of justice is not a single, specific crime but a category of offenses that interfere with the administration of law. The most common form charged is obstruction of justice under Virginia Code § 18.2-460. This statute makes it illegal to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. Charges can range from a Class 1 misdemeanor to a felony, depending on the circumstances and whether force or threat was used.
Last verified: April 2026 | Roanoke County General District Court & Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly.
The firm was founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor. This background provides a critical understanding of how the other side builds these cases, which is essential for an effective obstruction defense lawyer.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, refer to Virginia Code § 18.2-460 on the Virginia Legislative Information System. For local court procedures, visit the Roanoke County General District Court website.
Local Defense Strategy for Roanoke County
Successfully defending against an obstruction charge requires a case-specific approach that addresses the details of the police encounter. A common defense involves challenging whether the officer was lawfully engaged in their duties at the time of the alleged obstruction. If the officer lacked proper legal justification for a stop or arrest, your resistance may be legally justified.
- Immediate Case Review: Contact a lawyer immediately after arrest to preserve evidence and witness statements.
- Evidence Analysis: Your lawyer will obtain and review all police reports, body camera footage, and witness statements.
- Motion Filing: File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the encounter.
- Negotiation: Work to have the charge reduced to a lesser offense or dismissed based on the evidence.
- Trial Preparation: If a fair plea cannot be reached, prepare a strong defense for trial before a Roanoke County judge or jury.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Virginia
In Roanoke County, obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, but can become a felony if force is used or the offense involves certain officials.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing without force (Va. Code § 18.2-460(A)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Obstructing with force or threat (Va. Code § 18.2-460(B)) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months if sentenced as misdemeanor) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to each case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand that an obstruction charge can derail your life, and we provide a strong, focused defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to defending clients aggressively.
Case Results for Obstruction and Related Charges
The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients. In one case, our defense led to the complete dismissal of an obstruction charge in a Roanoke-area court after we demonstrated the officer lacked probable cause for the initial detention. In another, we negotiated a reduction of a felony obstruction charge to a simple misdemeanor with no jail time.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Roanoke County Defense Services
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Roanoke County, VA
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (540) 685-0505
By appointment only.
Our firm provides legal defense for obstruction charges throughout Roanoke County, including near the Roanoke County General District Court and communities like Vinton, Cave Spring, and Hollins. We offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. Meetings are held by appointment only. If you need an obstruction defense lawyer after a difficult police encounter, contact us immediately to discuss your case.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is obstruction of justice a felony in Virginia?
It depends. Basic obstruction under Va. Code § 18.2-460(A) is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if you use force or threats to obstruct an officer, it becomes a Class 5 felony under subsection B, carrying 1-10 years in prison.
Can I be charged with obstruction for just arguing with a police officer?
Yes. You can be charged if your words or actions knowingly hinder an officer’s duties. Mere disagreement is not always a crime, but refusing lawful orders, providing false ID, or physically interfering during an investigation can lead to charges from that police encounter.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction?
First, remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Do not try to explain yourself, as statements can be used against you. Contact a resisting charges lawyer immediately. An attorney can secure your release, analyze the evidence, and begin building your defense strategy.
What are common defenses to an obstruction charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you didn’t knowingly obstruct), unlawful police action (the officer was not performing a lawful duty), self-defense, and mistaken identity. An experienced obstruction attorney can determine the best defense based on the facts of your case.
How can an obstruction charge affect my future?
A conviction can result in jail time, fines, a permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, loss of professional licenses, and immigration consequences for non-citizens. A strong defense is critical to mitigate these long-term impacts.
Related Practice Areas: If you are facing other charges from the same incident, our firm also defends clients against assault, disorderly conduct, and resisting arrest charges in Roanoke County.
Other Localities: We also serve clients in neighboring areas like Roanoke City and Botetourt County.
State Hub: For more information on Virginia criminal defense, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change. Contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding obstruction of justice charges in Roanoke County, Virginia.