Perjury Lawyer Fairfax County Virginia — Defending Against False Statement Charges
Perjury in Fairfax County, Virginia, is a serious felony under Va. Code § 18.2-434, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath, securing a skilled perjury lawyer in Fairfax County Virginia is critical. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
What Is Perjury Under Virginia Law?
Perjury is the willful act of making a false statement while under a legally binding oath to tell the truth. In Virginia, this crime is defined by statute and prosecuted aggressively, especially in jurisdictions like Fairfax County with high-stakes legal proceedings.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County Circuit Court & Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The foundation of our defense practice is a precise understanding of the law. Perjury requires the prosecution to prove you knowingly made a false statement, that the statement was material to the proceeding, and that you were under oath. A seasoned criminal attorney will challenge each of these elements.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-434 (official Virginia General Assembly site). For Fairfax County court procedures and locations, visit the Fairfax County Courts official website.
The Fairfax County Court Process for Perjury Charges
Perjury cases in Fairfax County typically originate in Circuit Court, as it is a felony. The process is formal and the consequences are severe. Prosecutors often pursue these charges to uphold the integrity of the judicial system. A defense lawyer must be prepared for a complex fight from the first hearing.
- Arraignment: You will be formally advised of the felony perjury charge and enter a plea of not guilty.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney will file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if the oath was improperly administered or the statement was not material.
- Discovery: The prosecution must provide all evidence, including transcripts or recordings of the alleged false statement.
- Plea Negotiations: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, often seeking a reduction to a misdemeanor like obstruction of justice if the case is weak.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a jury trial in Fairfax County Circuit Court, where the burden of proof is on the prosecution.
- Sentencing: If convicted, your attorney will advocate for alternatives to incarceration, such as probation, based on your background and circumstances.
Potential Penalties for a Perjury Conviction
In Fairfax County, a perjury conviction is a Class 5 felony carrying 1-10 years in prison, a fine up to $2,500, and a permanent felony record that affects employment, professional licenses, and voting rights.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Long-Term Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-434) | Class 5 Felony | 1 – 10 years | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of civil rights, damage to credibility |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Defending Perjury Cases
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings a unique perspective to criminal charges defense. Our team understands how the Commonwealth builds its cases and uses that insight to develop effective counter-strategies. We are committed to the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders,” providing relentless representation for every client.
In complex cases, our team collaborates closely. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with decades of experience, provides strategic oversight. His deep understanding of Virginia criminal law and procedure strengthens our defense approach for every client needing a criminal court lawyer.
Local Presence for Fairfax County Clients
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
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Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: [Fairfax Office Phone from GMB_Attributes]
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location is strategically positioned to serve clients throughout the county. We are accessible via major routes like I-66 and Route 50, making it easier to meet with your perjury lawyer in Fairfax County Virginia when you need to. We serve communities across Fairfax County, including Annandale, Springfield, and Vienna. 24/7 phone consultations are available at (888) 437-7747 — meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perjury Charges
Can I be charged with perjury for a lie told outside of court?
Yes. Virginia law also criminalizes false statements on official government documents, like affidavits or DMV forms, as “false statements” under separate statutes, which carry similar penalties to perjury.
What’s the difference between perjury and making a false report to police?
It depends on the context. Perjury requires an oath. Lying to a law enforcement officer is typically charged under Va. Code § 18.2-461 (obstructing justice) or § 18.2-460 (false report), which are often misdemeanors but can be felonies if the lie seriously hinders an investigation.
Is a mistake the same as perjury?
No. A key defense is lack of intent. The prosecution must prove you knowingly made a false statement. An honest mistake, a faulty memory, or a misunderstanding is not perjury. A skilled defense lawyer will highlight this distinction.
What should I do if I’m under investigation for perjury?
1. Do not speak to investigators without an attorney. 2. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. 3. Preserve any documents or records related to your statement. 4. Let your attorney handle all communications to avoid inadvertently making the situation worse.
Can a perjury charge be dropped?
Yes. Charges may be dropped if the statement is proven immaterial, the oath was defective, or evidence shows a lack of criminal intent. An experienced criminal attorney can file pre-trial motions to seek dismissal based on these legal flaws in the prosecution’s case.