Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer Loudoun Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Subornation of perjury is a felony under Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 18.2-439, and is prosecuted aggressively in Loudoun County. If you are accused of inducing another person to lie under oath, you face severe penalties including prison time. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for these serious criminal charges.
Virginia Law on Subornation of Perjury
Subornation of perjury is defined in Virginia Code § 18.2-439. The statute makes it a crime to procure or induce another person to commit perjury—that is, to willfully give false testimony under oath in a judicial proceeding. The offense is complete when you successfully persuade someone to lie under oath, regardless of whether the underlying case’s outcome changes. This is a Class 5 felony, carrying a potential penalty of 1 to 10 years in prison, or in the discretion of the jury, confinement in jail for up to twelve months and a fine of up to $2,500.
Last verified: April 2026 | Loudoun County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, refer to the Virginia Code § 18.2-439 (official Virginia General Assembly website). Court procedures for felony charges in Loudoun County are managed by the Loudoun County General District Court for preliminary hearings and the Circuit Court for trials.
Defending Against Subornation Charges in Loudoun County
These cases are complex because the prosecution must prove both your intent to induce false testimony and that the witness actually gave false testimony under oath. A common local procedural fact is that these charges often arise from family law disputes, contract litigation, or other civil matters where testimony is critical. The Commonwealth’s Attorney must establish a direct link between your actions and the perjured statement.
- Initial Consultation & Case Review: Immediately consult with a criminal court lawyer to analyze the prosecution’s evidence and your communications with the alleged witness.
- Investigate the Underlying Testimony: Your defense lawyer will scrutinize the alleged perjured statement to challenge its falsity or materiality.
- Challenge the Element of Intent: Build a defense showing you lacked the specific intent to induce perjury, perhaps arguing you were merely advising a witness to tell their truth.
- File Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence or to challenge the legal sufficiency of the charge.
- Negotiate or Prepare for Trial: Based on the strength of the evidence, either negotiate for a reduction or dismissal, or prepare a vigorous trial defense focusing on reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Subornation of Perjury
In Loudoun County, subornation of perjury is a Class 5 felony carrying 1 to 10 years in prison, or up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine at the jury’s discretion.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subornation of Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-439) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but may affect professional licenses | Permanent felony record, loss of civil rights (voting, firearms), damage to reputation and employability. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Loudoun County Criminal 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 over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Loudoun County, we have a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing serious charges. Our “Advocacy Without Borders” philosophy means we pursue every available legal avenue for your defense.
Case Results for Criminal Charges Defense
Our team has secured numerous dismissals and favorable outcomes in Loudoun County courts. For example, we have achieved nolle prosequi (dismissal) for clients charged with offenses like “Fail to Dim Headlights” and “Operating with a Radar Detector/Jamming Device.” While every case is unique, these results demonstrate our active practice and understanding of local court procedures.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer Near Loudoun County, VA
Our Ashburn location serves clients at the Loudoun County courts. We are accessible to communities including Ashburn, Leesburg, Sterling, Purcellville, and South Riding. We offer 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 | Local: 571-279-0110 — with meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Ashburn Location — 20130 Lakeview Center Plaza, Room No. 403
Ashburn, VA 20147
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between perjury and subornation of perjury?
Yes, there is a key difference. Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-434) is the act of lying under oath yourself. Subornation of perjury is the separate crime of getting someone else to commit perjury. You can be charged with subornation even if you never took the stand.
Can I go to jail for subornation of perjury in Virginia?
Yes. Subornation of perjury is a Class 5 felony. A conviction can result in 1 to 10 years in prison. Alternatively, a jury can choose to impose a jail sentence of up to 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500. You need a skilled criminal attorney to defend against these severe penalties.
What does the prosecution have to prove for a subornation charge?
The prosecution must prove you knowingly and intentionally persuaded or induced another person to give false testimony under oath in an official proceeding. They must show both your corrupt intent and that the witness actually gave material false testimony because of your influence.
What are common defenses to subornation of perjury?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you didn’t mean to induce lying), that the testimony was actually true or not material, that you were merely giving legal advice, or that your statements are protected by attorney-client privilege. A defense lawyer can identify the best strategy for your case.
Should I talk to the police if I’m suspected of subornation?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used to establish your intent. Politely decline to answer questions and immediately request to speak with a criminal court lawyer. Contact our firm for a consultation.
Related Practice Areas: For other serious charges, see our Loudoun County DUI Lawyer and Loudoun County Reckless Driving Lawyer pages. For an overview of our criminal defense practice, visit our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For current guidance, contact the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.
Loudoun County cases are handled by our Virginia subornation of perjury practice, where the whole process is set out.