Perjury Lawyer James City County — Defending Against Lying Under Oath Charges
Perjury in James City County is a serious felony under Virginia law, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath, you need a dedicated perjury lawyer James City County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. Our team, led by former prosecutors, understands the high stakes and can build a strong defense strategy.
What Is Perjury Under Virginia Law?
Perjury is the act of willfully giving false testimony under oath in an official proceeding. In Virginia, this offense is governed by Va. Code § 18.2-434. The statute requires the prosecution to prove you knowingly made a false statement, that the statement was material to the proceeding, and that you were under a lawful oath to tell the truth. Defending against a perjury charge requires a lawyer who can challenge the evidence of intent and materiality.
Last verified: March 2026 | Williamsburg/James City County GDC | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources for Perjury Charges
Understanding the formal charges against you is critical. The official Virginia statute defining perjury is Va. Code § 18.2-434. Proceedings for perjury charges in James City County are handled at the Williamsburg/James City County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the James City County Circuit Court for trials. A skilled perjury charge lawyer James City County will handle both venues.
Local Court Process for a Perjury Case in James City County
Perjury cases in James City County typically begin with an investigation, often by a Commonwealth’s Attorney, before a formal charge is filed. The case will start in Williamsburg/James City County GDC for a preliminary hearing to determine probable cause. Given the complexity of proving intent, prosecutors may rely on prior statements and witness testimony.
- Initial Charge & Arrest: You may receive a warrant or be summoned to court based on an investigation into alleged false testimony.
- Preliminary Hearing (GDC): A hearing at 5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, to establish if there is enough evidence for a felony trial.
- Circuit Court Arraignment: If the case proceeds, you will be formally charged and enter a plea in James City County Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Motions: Your attorney will review all evidence, file motions to suppress, and challenge the materiality of the alleged false statement.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case will either go to a jury trial in Circuit Court or be resolved through a negotiated plea agreement.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing follows Virginia’s felony sentencing guidelines, with the potential for prison time.
Potential Penalties for Perjury in Virginia
In James City County, perjury is a Class 5 felony carrying 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 (Va. Code § 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. |
| Subornation of Perjury (Procuring another to lie) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Same severe long-term consequences as perjury. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Perjury Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We provide “Advocacy Without Borders,” offering strategic defense for complex charges like perjury. Our team includes attorneys with deep knowledge of Virginia’s court system and the specific procedures in James City County.
For complex federal or multi-jurisdictional perjury matters, the firm’s founder, Mr. Sris, provides strategic oversight. As a former prosecutor with a multi-state practice, he brings a high-level perspective to building a defense against charges of lying under oath.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific perjury results are confidential, our approach to defending serious felonies is proven. In James City County, we have 5 total documented case results across all practice areas with a 100% favorable outcome rate. We meticulously analyze every detail of the accusation, from the oath’s lawfulness to the statement’s materiality, to protect your future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local James City County Defense Representation
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) 288-1661
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the Williamsburg/James City County GDC (5201 Monticello Ave). We are accessible via I-64 and Route 60. If you are searching for a “perjury lawyer near me” in Williamsburg, Norge, Toano, or Lightfoot, we offer 24/7 phone consultations at (888) 437-7747. All meetings are by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions: Perjury Charges in James City County
What is the penalty for perjury in Virginia?
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 $2,500 fine.
Can I be charged with perjury for a statement made outside of court?
It depends. Va. Code § 18.2-434 applies to false statements under oath in an “official proceeding.” This includes court testimony, depositions, and affidavits submitted to the court. False statements to police not under oath may be a different offense, like false report to law enforcement.
What does the prosecution have to prove for a perjury conviction?
The Commonwealth must prove you: 1) made a false statement, 2) under a lawful oath or affirmation, 3) in an official proceeding, 4) that the statement was material to the proceeding, and 5) that you acted willfully and knowingly. A perjury lawyer James City County challenges each of these elements.
What are common defenses against a perjury charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (it was a mistake), truth of the statement, immateriality of the statement to the case, an invalid oath, or insufficient evidence. A lying under oath defense lawyer James City County will identify the strongest defense based on the facts.
Should I hire a lawyer for a perjury charge?
Yes. Perjury is a felony with severe consequences. The legal definitions of “materiality” and “intent” are complex. A perjury charge lawyer James City County from SRIS, P.C. can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
For more information on related charges, see our pages on Virginia Criminal Defense and Federal Criminal Defense in James City County. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County.
Page Last verified: March 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance.