Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer Bedford Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Subornation of perjury is a serious felony under Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 18.2-437, involving inducing another person to lie under oath. In Bedford, these charges are prosecuted in the Bedford County Circuit Court and carry severe penalties. If you are accused, you need a defense lawyer who understands the specific procedures of this court.
Understanding the Crime of Subornation of Perjury in Virginia
Subornation of perjury is defined by Virginia statute as the act of procuring or inducing another person to commit perjury—that is, to willfully give false testimony under oath in a judicial proceeding. The crime is complete when you knowingly cause another to lie, regardless of whether the perjury is actually committed. The statute, Va. Code § 18.2-437, classifies this offense as a Class 5 felony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Bedford County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, our firm has a deep understanding of how the Commonwealth builds these cases. A conviction can result in up to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500, along with the permanent consequences of a felony record. A skilled criminal court lawyer is essential to challenge the prosecution’s evidence, which often hinges on proving your intent and knowledge.
Legal Resources and Court Information
For the official text of the law, refer to the Virginia Legislative Information System. For local court procedures and filing information, you can visit the Bedford County Circuit Court website. These resources provide the formal framework governing your case.
The Bedford Court Process for a Subornation of Perjury Charge
In Bedford County, a subornation of perjury case begins with an indictment from a grand jury in the Circuit Court. Prosecutors will aggressively seek to prove you knowingly solicited false testimony. The key to your defense often lies in attacking the credibility of the alleged perjurer and demonstrating a lack of criminal intent on your part.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and enter a plea of not guilty in Bedford County Circuit Court.
- Discovery & Investigation: Your defense lawyer will obtain all evidence, including witness statements and any recordings, to find inconsistencies.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Motions may be filed to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the indictment.
- Trial or Negotiation: The case will proceed to a jury trial or may be resolved through plea negotiations aimed at reducing the charge.
- Sentencing: If convicted, sentencing will be imposed by the Circuit Court judge, considering state guidelines.
Potential Penalties for Subornation of Perjury in Virginia
In Bedford, subornation of perjury is a Class 5 felony carrying a prison sentence of 1 to 10 years, or at the court’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Long-Term Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subornation of Perjury | Class 5 Felony | 1 – 10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, loss of voting rights, difficulty securing employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Complex Felony Defense
Since 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has built a practice on handling serious felony accusations. Our approach is grounded in a founder who served as a prosecutor, providing insight into the tactics used by the state. We combine this perspective with thorough investigation and aggressive advocacy to protect our clients’ futures. For charges like subornation of perjury, having a criminal attorney with this background is critical.
Building a Defense Against Subornation Allegations
Every case is unique, but common defense strategies include arguing that you did not know the testimony was false, that you did not induce the false statement, or that the alleged perjurer is not credible. We examine all communications and circumstances to challenge the prosecution’s narrative. In one case, attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland Assistant State’s Attorney, successfully argued for the dismissal of a related obstruction charge by demonstrating a lack of corrupt intent, a principle that applies directly to subornation defenses.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Bedford County Residents
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Serving Bedford, VA & Surrounding Areas
Phone: (888) 437-7747
Available for Consultations: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Our firm is positioned to defend clients throughout Bedford County. We understand the local legal field and are prepared to act quickly following an arrest or indictment. As a subornation of perjury lawyer Bedford Virginia relies on, we offer accessible support during this stressful time.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is subornation of perjury a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Subornation of perjury is classified as a Class 5 felony under Virginia law (Va. Code § 18.2-437), punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison and a substantial fine.
What is the difference between perjury and subornation of perjury?
Perjury is the act of lying under oath oneself. Subornation of perjury is the separate crime of convincing or inducing another person to commit perjury. You can be charged with subornation even if you never took the stand.
What does the prosecution need to prove for a conviction?
The prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally induced another person to give false testimony under oath in an official proceeding. They must establish your intent and the falsity of the testimony.
Can I go to jail for subornation of perjury?
Yes. A conviction carries a mandatory prison sentence of 1 to 10 years, though a judge has discretion to sentence you to up to 12 months in jail instead. Incarceration is a very real possibility.
Why do I need a lawyer for this charge?
This is a complex felony where intent is crucial. A skilled criminal attorney can challenge the evidence, cross-examine the main witness against you (the alleged perjurer), and work to have charges reduced or dismissed before trial.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact our office directly.