Virginia Subornation Of Perjury Lawyer — What Are Your Defense Options?
Subornation of perjury in Virginia is a Class 6 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-438, carrying 1-5 years in prison and a fine up to $2,500. As a serious obstruction of justice charge, it requires immediate and strategic defense. The Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides experienced legal representation for those accused of this complex crime.
Virginia’s Subornation Of Perjury Statute
Subornation of perjury is the act of inducing or procuring another person to commit perjury. In Virginia, this offense is codified under Va. Code § 18.2-438. The statute makes it unlawful to “advise, encourage, induce, or procure another to commit perjury.” A conviction requires proof that the defendant knowingly caused another to make a false statement under oath in a judicial proceeding, and that the defendant knew the statement was false.
Last verified: April 2026 | Virginia Statewide Courts | Virginia General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting the financial and evidentiary details often present in subornation cases.
Official Legal Resources
- Va. Code § 18.2-438 (Official Virginia General Assembly)
- Virginia Court System Website
Defending a Subornation Of Perjury Charge
Defending against a subornation of perjury charge involves challenging the prosecution’s ability to prove every element beyond a reasonable doubt. A key local procedural fact is that Virginia courts require the underlying perjury to be proven as a separate element. If the witness’s statement was not materially false, or if the defendant did not have the specific intent to induce false testimony, the charge may not stand.
- Case Assessment: Immediately secure all communications, emails, texts, or recordings related to the alleged inducement.
- Witness Analysis: Scrutinize the credibility and potential motives of the individual who allegedly committed perjury.
- Intent Defense: Develop evidence showing a lack of specific intent to procure false testimony, such as advice to tell the truth or a misunderstanding of the facts.
- Motion Practice: File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or challenge the sufficiency of the prosecution’s case.
- Trial Strategy: If the case proceeds to trial, aggressively cross-examine witnesses and present a coherent alternative narrative to the jury.
Potential Penalties for Subornation Of Perjury in Virginia
In Virginia, subornation of perjury is a Class 6 felony, which carries a prison sentence of 1 to 5 years, or at the jury’s discretion, up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | Collateral Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Subornation of Perjury | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years in prison (or up to 12 months in jail) | Up to $2,500 | Permanent felony record, loss of professional licenses, damage to reputation, ineligibility for certain government benefits and employment. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Our Experience with Complex Criminal Charges
Founded in 1997, the Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our defense lawyers are familiar with the high stakes of felony obstruction charges. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally maintains a selective caseload of complex criminal matters, ensuring deep involvement. Of Counsel attorney Matthew Greene, with over 30 years of experience including a former contract with Child Protective Services, provides additional depth in cases involving intricate witness dynamics and credibility challenges.
Case Results in Criminal Defense
Our firm-wide record across Virginia, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, and DC includes 4,739+ documented case results with a favorable outcome rate of 93%+. While every case is unique, our team has successfully defended clients against a wide range of felony charges by meticulously analyzing evidence, challenging procedural errors, and constructing strong counter-narratives.
Results may vary. Prior results do not aim for a similar outcome.
Virginia Subornation Of Perjury Defense Lawyer Near You
Facing a subornation of perjury charge can feel isolating, but you do not have to handle it alone. Our Virginia defense lawyers are accessible statewide. We offer 24/7 phone consultations to discuss your situation and legal options.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions (Subornation Of Perjury)
Is subornation of perjury a felony in Virginia?
Yes. Subornation of perjury is classified as a Class 6 felony in Virginia under Va. Code § 18.2-438.
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, persuading, or procuring another person to commit that act of perjury. You can be charged with subornation even if you never took an oath yourself.
What does the prosecution have to prove for a subornation conviction?
The prosecution must prove you knowingly advised, encouraged, or induced another person to make a false statement under oath, that you knew the statement was false, and that the person then actually made the false statement in a judicial proceeding.
Can I go to jail for subornation of perjury?
Yes. A Class 6 felony conviction carries a potential prison sentence of 1 to 5 years, or up to 12 months in jail at the jury’s discretion, plus a fine.
What are common defenses to this charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you did not know the testimony was false), that the underlying statement was not materially false, that you were merely advising someone to tell the truth, or that your actions did not actually cause the perjury.
Should I talk to the police if I’m under investigation?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used to establish intent. Politely decline to answer questions and request to speak with a criminal court lawyer immediately.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
A subornation of perjury case is one part of our Virginia federal practice, and our page on federal criminal lawyer Virginia covers how these matters are handled.