Perjury Lawyer Chesterfield County — Defending Against Lying Under Oath Charges
Perjury in Chesterfield County is a serious offense under Virginia law, classified as a Class 5 felony carrying 1-10 years in prison. A conviction creates a permanent felony record. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of lying under oath. Our perjury lawyer Chesterfield County team understands the high stakes and builds case-specific strategies.
Last verified: March 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
What Is Perjury Under Virginia Law?
Perjury is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-434 as willfully giving false testimony under oath in any official proceeding, after being lawfully sworn. The statute requires the false statement to be material to the proceeding. This means the lie must be capable of influencing the outcome of the case or investigation. Defending against a perjury charge often involves challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove the defendant’s intent to deceive and the materiality of the statement. A skilled perjury charge lawyer Chesterfield County can analyze the specific context of the alleged false statement.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the perjury statute, see Virginia Code § 18.2-434 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Chesterfield County can be found at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Defending a Perjury Case in Chesterfield County
Prosecutors in Chesterfield County must prove every element of perjury beyond a reasonable doubt. A common defense is that the defendant did not have the specific intent to lie; they may have been mistaken, confused, or misunderstood the question. Another defense is that the statement, even if false, was not material to the proceeding. The procedural steps in a felony perjury case begin in General District Court for a preliminary hearing before moving to Circuit Court for trial.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any further statements.
- Your attorney will obtain and scrutinize all transcripts, recordings, and documents from the original proceeding.
- A motion may be filed to challenge the materiality of the statement or the sufficiency of the evidence.
- If the case proceeds, your defense will be presented at a preliminary hearing in General District Court.
- The case will be certified to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a potential jury trial.
- Your attorney will negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a full trial defense.
Potential Penalties for Perjury in Virginia
In Chesterfield County, perjury is a Class 5 felony punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (§ 18.2-434) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, damage to credibility in future legal matters. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our team includes former prosecutors who understand how the Commonwealth’s Attorney for Chesterfield County builds cases. We approach each perjury defense by dissecting the prosecution’s evidence on intent and materiality. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, brings a background in accounting and information systems, which is advantageous for cases involving complex testimonial evidence.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented record of favorable outcomes in Chesterfield County. While specific perjury case results are confidential, our overall approach focuses on achieving dismissals, reductions, or acquittals by holding the prosecution to its high burden of proof. We also collaborate with experienced attorneys like Mr. Sris, whose multi-state practice and experience amending Virginia law provide strategic depth for complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Perjury Defense Lawyer Near Chesterfield County
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Chesterfield County courts (9500 Courthouse Road). We are accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We provide legal support to communities including Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights area, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Richmond Location — 7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Suite 300, Rm 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804) 477-1720
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate)
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Chesterfield County?
Chesterfield County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Chesterfield County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time. Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832) is the GDC location.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Chesterfield County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 5 documented results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
What should I look for in a perjury charge lawyer Chesterfield County?
Look for a lawyer with specific experience defending against felony charges and a deep understanding of evidence rules. Your attorney should be familiar with Chesterfield County Circuit Court procedures and have a strategy to challenge the materiality and intent elements of the prosecution’s case. A strong defense often involves detailed analysis of prior testimony.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County. If you are facing other charges, we are also a DUI lawyer Chesterfield County.
Last verified: March 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.