Subornation of perjury is a Class 5 felony in Madison County, Virginia, under Va. Code § 18.2-437, carrying 1-10 years in prison. If you are accused of inducing another person to lie under oath, you need an experienced criminal attorney. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense representation for this serious charge.
Virginia Law on Subornation of Perjury
Subornation of perjury is the crime of procuring or inducing another person to commit perjury (lie under oath in a judicial proceeding). In Virginia, it is prosecuted as a separate, serious felony offense. The statute specifically criminalizes the act of willfully and corruptly procuring another to commit perjury, whether the perjury is actually committed or not. This means the attempt itself can be charged. The case is prosecuted by the Madison County Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard in the Madison County Circuit Court for felony trials.
Last verified: April 2026 | Madison County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-437 (official Virginia General Assembly). For court procedures and locations, visit the Madison County Courts website.
Defending a Subornation of Perjury Charge in Madison County
A subornation of perjury charge is complex, often involving evidence of communication and intent. In Madison County Circuit Court, the prosecution must prove you knowingly and corruptly induced another to lie. A common defense is lack of corrupt intent—showing you did not know the statement was false or that you did not intend for it to be used in an official proceeding. Another defense is challenging the underlying perjury allegation itself; if no perjury occurred, subornation cannot stand.
- Secure immediate legal representation before making any statements.
- Your defense lawyer will obtain all discovery, including witness interviews and documents.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence or procedural errors.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal if possible.
- Prepare for a vigorous defense at trial in Madison County Circuit Court if necessary.
Potential Penalties for Subornation of Perjury
In Madison County, subornation of perjury is a Class 5 felony carrying 1 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500, with a permanent felony record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subornation of Perjury | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years* | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, difficulty securing employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
*The jury or judge can impose a sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine as an alternative to a penitentiary sentence.
Our Experience with Complex Criminal Charges
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how the Commonwealth builds its cases. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in complex criminal matters. Our approach is collaborative; for instance, on a challenging subornation case, our defense lawyer Mr. Sris may work with Of Counsel attorney Bryan Block, leveraging his 15 years of law enforcement experience to dissect the investigation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
While every case is unique, our firm is dedicated to achieving the best possible outcome. We have secured dismissals, reductions, and favorable verdicts in numerous felony cases. We analyze every detail, from the initial investigation methods to the credibility of witnesses, to protect your rights and future.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer Near Madison, Virginia
Our Fairfax location serves clients facing charges at the Madison County courts. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 231. We provide legal support to individuals throughout Madison and the surrounding communities.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Court
Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
FAQs: Subornation of Perjury Charges in Virginia
What is the penalty for subornation of perjury in Virginia?
It is a Class 5 felony, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. A judge or jury can alternatively impose up to 12 months in jail.
Can I be charged if the person I allegedly influenced never actually testified?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-437, the crime of subornation is complete when you corruptly procure another to commit perjury, regardless of whether the perjury is ultimately committed. The attempt itself is chargeable.
What is the difference between perjury and subornation of perjury?
Perjury is the act of lying under oath. Subornation of perjury is the separate crime of inducing or persuading another person to commit that act of perjury. They are distinct charges under Virginia law.
What are common defenses to a subornation charge?
Key defenses include lack of corrupt intent (you didn’t know the statement was false), absence of an underlying perjury, insufficient evidence of inducement, and challenging the credibility of the witness alleging you suborned them.
Do I need a criminal court lawyer for a subornation charge?
Absolutely. This is a serious felony with prison time. A skilled criminal court lawyer is essential to challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights at every stage in Madison County Circuit Court.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in Madison County, you may also need information on Virginia criminal defense. For charges in nearby areas, see our pages for Fairfax County criminal defense lawyer and Prince William County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal needs in Madison, consider a Madison County DUI lawyer.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding subornation of perjury charges.