Obstruction Defense Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Legal Options?
An obstruction of justice charge in Arlington County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients in Arlington County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it illegal to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other official in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, physically interfering, or fleeing to avoid arrest. The charge is often paired with resisting arrest under § 18.2-479.1. The prosecution must prove you acted willfully and knowingly. Defenses often focus on lack of intent, mistaken identity, or whether the officer was lawfully executing their duties.
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the Virginia obstruction statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Arlington County cases are heard at the Arlington County General District Court.
Arlington County Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Arlington County, an obstruction charge is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. The case begins with an arraignment at Arlington County General District Court (1425 N. Courthouse Rd). The Commonwealth’s Attorney must prove you knowingly obstructed justice. A skilled obstruction of justice defense lawyer Arlington County will scrutinize the arrest report and officer testimony for weaknesses.
- Receive a summons or warrant for obstruction of justice.
- Attend your arraignment at Arlington County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your lawyer files pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge.
- Negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, you can appeal to Arlington County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Obstruction of Justice in Arlington County
In Arlington County, obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction of Justice (Va. Code § 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; possible probation; impacts employment, housing, professional licenses. |
| Resisting Arrest (§ 18.2-479.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged together with obstruction; increases overall penalty exposure. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Obstruction Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that an obstruction charge can stem from a tense moment, and we work to present the full context to the court.
Bryan Block, Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. Former Virginia State Trooper (15 years). View Bryan Block’s Profile
Matthew Greene, Senior Defense Attorney at Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Licensed in VA. 30+ years criminal defense. Death penalty certified (formerly). View Matthew Greene’s Profile
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Our firm has a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing criminal charges in Arlington County. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and strategic. For example, we have secured dismissals (nolle prosequi) for charges like destruction of property and fare evasion in Arlington County General District Court. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense for Arlington County Charges
Our Arlington location is strategically positioned to serve clients at the Arlington County courts. We are a local obstruction defense lawyer Arlington County near Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, and Pentagon City. We offer 24/7 phone consultations and meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for obstruction of justice in Arlington County?
Up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Obstruction of justice under Va. Code § 18.2-460 is a Class 1 misdemeanor. The exact penalty depends on your criminal history and the case facts. An obstruction defense lawyer Arlington County can argue for alternatives like probation or dismissal.
Can obstruction charges be dropped in Arlington County?
Yes. An obstruction of justice defense lawyer Arlington County can seek a dismissal by filing motions to challenge the evidence or by negotiating with the prosecutor. Common grounds include lack of probable cause for the initial stop or insufficient evidence that you acted knowingly.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction of justice (§ 18.2-460) involves impeding an officer’s duties, which can be non-violent. Resisting arrest (§ 18.2-479.1) involves using force or threats to prevent an arrest. They are often charged together. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Arlington County can address both charges in a unified defense strategy.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney vigorously prosecutes these cases in Arlington County General District Court. A lawyer protects your rights, challenges the state’s evidence, and works toward the best possible outcome.
What are common defenses to obstruction of justice?
Defenses include lack of intent (you didn’t knowingly obstruct), mistake of fact, unlawful police conduct, or that the officer was not engaged in a lawful duty. Your lawyer will examine all circumstances, including body camera footage and witness statements.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Alexandria. If you are facing related charges, explore our services for DUI defense in Arlington County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.