Subornation of perjury in James City County is a serious felony under Virginia law, involving the inducement of another person to commit perjury. As a criminal attorney, we understand the severe penalties, including potential prison time and fines. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those facing these complex criminal charges. Contact our James City County office for a case review.
Virginia Law on Subornation of Perjury
Subornation of perjury is defined under Virginia Code § 18.2-437. The statute makes it a felony to procure or induce another person to commit perjury, which is the act of lying under oath in a judicial proceeding. The crime is complete when the inducement is made, regardless of whether the perjury is actually committed. The prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally persuaded someone to give false testimony.
Last verified: April 2026 | Williamsburg/James City County GDC | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to Virginia Code § 18.2-437 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures for felony charges in James City County are handled by the Williamsburg/James City County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Circuit Court for trials.
Defense Strategy for Subornation Charges in James City County
Building a defense against subornation of perjury charges requires a detailed analysis of the communication and intent. A key local procedural fact is that these cases often involve witness testimony about private conversations, making credibility a central issue. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove your specific intent to procure false testimony beyond a reasonable doubt.
- Case Assessment: Immediately secure all communications and identify all potential witnesses with your defense lawyer.
- Evidence Review: Scrutinize the alleged inducement for ambiguity or lack of criminal intent.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or suppress improperly obtained statements.
- Trial Strategy: Prepare to cross-examine the main witness on their credibility and any benefits they may receive for their testimony.
- Negotiation or Trial: Based on the evidence, either negotiate for a reduction or proceed to a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Subornation of Perjury
In James City County, subornation of 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subornation of Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-437) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, difficulty obtaining employment, loss of civil rights (voting, firearm possession). |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to complex cases like subornation of perjury. Our founder, a former prosecutor, understands how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in criminal defense across Virginia.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While specific subornation of perjury results are not listed, our firm-wide approach to criminal defense has secured favorable outcomes in thousands of cases. Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works collaboratively to challenge the evidence and protect your rights at every stage.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer Near James City County, VA
Our Richmond location serves clients at the James City County courts. We are accessible via I-64, Route 60, and Route 5. We provide legal representation to residents of Williamsburg, Norge, Toano, and Lightfoot.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr, Ste 300, Rm 395
Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in James City County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in James City 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 Williamsburg/James City County GDC (5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, VA 23188). 5 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
Can criminal charges be expunged in James City 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 James City County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 5 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate)
How does bail work in James City County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in James City County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Williamsburg/James City County GDC. Bond amount set by magistrate at arrest — personal recognizance for many first-offense misdemeanors; secured bond typical for felonies (bail bondsman charges approximately 10%); public defender eligibility based on income; court-appointed attorney fee: $120 (misdemeanor) to $445+ (felony)
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in James City County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in James City County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at Williamsburg/James City County GDC (5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, VA 23188). Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. 5 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate) Contact SRIS 24/7 at (888) 437-7747 for a Consultation by appointment.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in James City County?
James City County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. James City 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. Williamsburg/James City County GDC (5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, VA 23188) is the GDC location.
Related Legal Services in James City County
If you are facing other legal issues, our firm also provides representation for DUI charges and family law matters in James City County. For a broader view of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.