Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer Prince George Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Subornation of perjury is a felony under Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 18.2-436, involving the inducement of another person to commit perjury. In Prince George County, this charge is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and can result in severe penalties.
Virginia Law on Subornation of Perjury
Subornation of perjury is defined in Virginia Code § 18.2-436. The statute makes it a crime to procure or induce another person to make a false statement under oath in any official proceeding, knowing that the statement is false. This is distinct from perjury itself, which is the act of lying under oath; subornation is the act of getting someone else to do it. The offense is classified as 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 12 months and a fine of up to $2,500.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-436 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for felony charges in Prince George County are handled by the Prince George County Circuit Court.
Defending Against Subornation of Perjury Charges in Prince George County
Building a defense against a subornation of perjury charge requires a detailed examination of the evidence and intent. A key local procedural fact is that these cases often involve complex witness testimony and communication records. The prosecution must prove you knowingly induced another to lie under oath, which can be difficult to establish without direct evidence of your intent and the witness’s understanding.
- Case Assessment: Your defense lawyer will review all communications, witness statements, and the context of the alleged inducement.
- Motion to Suppress: If any evidence was obtained improperly, your attorney can file a motion to have it excluded from trial.
- Challenge Intent: A core defense strategy is to argue you lacked the specific criminal intent required, perhaps showing you were merely advising someone to tell their version of the truth.
- Witness Credibility: The credibility of the person allegedly suborned is often attacked, as their own legal exposure may motivate their testimony against you.
- Plea Negotiation: In some cases, negotiating for a reduction to a lesser offense or alternative disposition may be the most strategic path.
- Trial Preparation: If the case proceeds to a jury trial in Prince George County Circuit Court, your attorney will prepare a vigorous defense focusing on reasonable doubt.
Potential Penalties for Subornation of Perjury
In Prince George County, a conviction for subornation of perjury as a Class 5 felony carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 10 years, 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 | 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 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 documented case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. We understand the high stakes of a felony charge like subornation of perjury and provide a defense built on thorough investigation and strategic advocacy.
Our Approach to Subornation of Perjury Cases
Our defense strategy begins with a meticulous review of the prosecution’s evidence. We scrutinize the alleged communication between you and the witness, the witness’s own statements for inconsistencies, and the specific context of the official proceeding. We also explore whether the witness acted independently or under their own motivation. Our goal is to create reasonable doubt about your intent and the veracity of the accusation. For complex cases, our team collaborates, drawing on the experience of attorneys like Mr. Sris, whose background as a former prosecutor provides critical insight into how the Commonwealth builds its case.
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: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). We are a subornation of perjury lawyer near Prince George, accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. We provide 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — with meetings by appointment only. We serve the Prince George and Hopewell area communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince George 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 are heard at Prince George County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince George 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 Prince George County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
How does bail work in Prince George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Prince George County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Prince George County General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges in Prince George County are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney. Even misdemeanors carry up to 12 months jail and create a permanent criminal record visible to employers. A criminal attorney can protect your rights and work toward the best possible outcome.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Prince George County?
Prince George County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Prince George 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.
Related Legal Services in Prince George County
If you are dealing with other legal matters, our firm offers full support. We are also experienced DUI defense lawyers in Prince George. For family-related issues, we provide guidance as a family law attorney in Prince George. For broader context on criminal defense in Virginia, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page. For representation in nearby jurisdictions, consider our team as a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County.
Last verified: April 2026. Information current as of verification date. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.