Perjury Lawyer New Kent Virginia — What Are the Defenses to Lying Under Oath?
Perjury in New Kent County is a serious criminal charge under Va. Code § 18.2-434, punishable as a Class 5 felony with 1-10 years in prison. If you are accused of lying under oath in New Kent County General District or Circuit Court, you need a strong defense. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Virginia Perjury Law and Penalties
In Virginia, perjury is defined as willfully giving false testimony under oath in any official proceeding, after being administered an oath required by law. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-434, classifies perjury as a Class 5 felony. This classification carries a potential prison sentence of one to ten years, or, in the discretion of the jury or court, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500. Subornation of perjury—procuring another person to commit perjury—is also a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-436.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of Virginia’s perjury statutes, refer to the official Virginia Code, Title 18.2, Chapter 8. Court procedures and filing information for New Kent County can be found on the New Kent County Courts website.
Facing a Perjury Charge in New Kent County Court
Perjury cases in New Kent County originate from testimony given in proceedings at the New Kent County General District Court (12001 Courthouse Circle) or the Circuit Court. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly made a false statement, under oath, on a material matter. A skilled criminal court lawyer will scrutinize the oath’s administration, the statement’s materiality, and your intent. In this court, prosecutors must meet a high burden of proof, which an experienced defense can challenge effectively.
- Initial Consultation: Contact a perjury defense lawyer immediately after being charged or investigated.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain all transcripts, recordings, and evidence related to the alleged false statement.
- Defense Strategy: Build a defense focusing on lack of intent, immateriality, mistaken fact, or improper oath administration.
- Court Appearances: Your lawyer will represent you at all hearings in New Kent County General District or Circuit Court.
- Resolution: Work toward a dismissal, reduction of charges, or favorable plea agreement based on the evidence.
Potential Penalties for Perjury in Virginia
In New Kent County, a perjury conviction as a Class 5 felony carries a prison term of 1-10 years, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the court’s discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-434) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but a felony record affects professional licenses | Permanent felony record, loss of voting rights, difficulty obtaining employment/housing |
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, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that a perjury charge can stem from high-stakes litigation, divorce proceedings, or other sensitive matters, and we provide a strategic, discreet defense.
Our Approach to Perjury Cases
Our defense team, which includes seasoned attorneys like Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, meticulously analyzes every element of the charge. We examine the context of the oath, the specific language used, and the evidence of willful intent. We prepare to argue defenses such as recantation, immateriality, or that the statement was literally true. Our goal is to protect your rights and achieve the best possible resolution, whether through pre-trial motion, negotiation, or trial.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Perjury Defense Lawyer Near New Kent County, Virginia
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the New Kent County courts, accessible via I-64 and Route 33. We provide representation for individuals in New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton. For a perjury lawyer near New Kent County Courthouse or Colonial Downs, contact us for a consultation.
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)201-9009 | Local: (804) 201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations available.
Frequently Asked Questions: Perjury Charges in Virginia
What is the penalty for perjury in Virginia?
Perjury is a Class 5 felony in Virginia, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. Alternatively, a judge or jury can impose a sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
Can I be charged with perjury for lying on a written document?
Yes, if the document is signed under oath or penalty of perjury, such as an affidavit or a deposition transcript. Virginia law covers false statements in any “sworn written declaration” intended as evidence, making it a criminal act similar to false oral testimony.
What are common defenses to a perjury charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you believed the statement was true), immateriality (the falsehood did not affect the proceeding’s outcome), recantation (you corrected the false statement before it affected the proceeding), and literal truth (the statement was technically accurate). A skilled criminal attorney can evaluate which defense applies.
Do I need a lawyer for a perjury charge?
Yes. Perjury is a felony with severe consequences. A defense lawyer is essential to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, protect your rights, and handle the complex legal arguments regarding oath, materiality, and intent in New Kent County court.
What is the difference between perjury and making a false statement?
It depends on the context. Perjury specifically requires a false statement made under oath in an official proceeding. “False statement” charges (e.g., to law enforcement) often have different statutes and penalties, and do not require the formal setting of an oath in a judicial proceeding.
Related Legal Services in New Kent County
If you are facing criminal charges, our firm provides full defense. Learn more about our work as a criminal defense lawyer in New Kent County. We also assist clients with related matters like DUI defense. For a broader view of our Virginia practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. We also represent clients in nearby jurisdictions like Henrico County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change frequently. For the most current advice regarding perjury charges, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.