Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer in Stafford, Virginia — What Are Your Defense Options?
Subornation of perjury is a felony under Virginia law, specifically Va. Code § 18.2-438, and is prosecuted in Stafford County Circuit Court. If you are accused of inducing another person to lie under oath, you need a subornation of perjury lawyer in Stafford Virginia immediately. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides strong defense against these serious criminal charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Stafford County Circuit Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Subornation of Perjury
Subornation of perjury is defined in Va. Code § 18.2-438 as the act of procuring or inducing another person to commit perjury. It is a Class 5 felony, punishable by one to ten years in prison, or at the jury’s discretion, up to twelve months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. The charge requires the prosecution to prove you knowingly and intentionally caused another person to make a false statement under oath in a judicial proceeding. This is a distinct charge from perjury itself, focusing on your role in causing the false testimony. A skilled criminal attorney will examine whether the alleged false statement was material to the proceeding and whether you had the requisite intent.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-438 (official Virginia General Assembly site). Court information and procedures can be found at the Stafford County Circuit Court website.
Defending Subornation Charges in Stafford County
These cases are complex because they involve two actors: the person who lies and the person accused of inducing the lie. Prosecutors in Stafford County must prove a direct link between your actions and the perjured testimony. A common defense is lack of intent—you did not know the statement was false or you did not intend for the witness to lie. Another defense is that the statement was not material to the case’s outcome. The credibility of the witness who allegedly committed perjury is often central to the case.
- Initial Consultation: Discuss all details of the accusation with your defense lawyer immediately.
- Evidence Review: Your attorney will scrutinize all communications, witness statements, and the context of the alleged perjury.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to challenge the sufficiency of evidence or to suppress improperly obtained statements.
- Negotiation or Trial: Work to have charges reduced or dismissed pre-trial, or prepare a vigorous defense for a Circuit Court jury trial.
In Stafford County, a subornation of perjury conviction 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.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subornation of Perjury | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, difficulty securing employment and housing. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Criminal Charges Defense
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founder, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor who understands how the Commonwealth builds its cases from the inside. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious felony allegations. Our approach is direct and focused on the specific details of your situation.
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results in Stafford County. While every case is unique, our strategic approach focuses on thorough investigation and assertive advocacy. We work to have charges dismissed, reduced, or to secure acquittals at trial. For subornation of perjury charges, a strong defense requires dismantling the prosecution’s theory of inducement and intent.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
Fairfax Location — 4008 Williamsburg Court, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Stafford County courts. We provide representation for individuals in Stafford, Aquia Harbour, and Brooke. Contact us for a subornation of perjury lawyer near Stafford. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is subornation of perjury in Virginia?
It is a Class 5 felony defined under Va. Code § 18.2-438. It involves knowingly and intentionally inducing another person to commit perjury, which is lying under oath in an official proceeding.
Do I need a criminal court lawyer for a subornation charge?
Yes. This is a serious felony prosecuted in Circuit Court. The potential penalties are severe, including prison time. A skilled criminal court lawyer is essential to challenge the evidence, protect your rights, and present a defense focused on intent and witness credibility.
What are the penalties for subornation of perjury?
A conviction is a Class 5 felony punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison. Alternatively, a jury can impose a sentence of up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. You will also have a permanent felony record.
What defenses are available?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you didn’t know the statement was false), lack of inducement (you didn’t procure the false testimony), or that the statement was not material to the proceeding. The defense often hinges on dissecting communications and the alleged witness’s motives.
Can I get a subornation of perjury charge expunged?
It depends. Virginia law generally does not allow expungement of felony convictions. If the charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition the Stafford County Circuit Court for an expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2.
For more information, see our Virginia criminal defense hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Stafford DUI defense or Stafford family law services.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.