Obstruction Defense Lawyer in King George County, Virginia
Obstruction of justice is a serious charge in King George County, classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in King George County, with 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined under 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 actions like providing false information, fleeing, or physically interfering. The charge is often paired with resisting arrest under § 18.2-479.1, which involves preventing a lawful arrest.
Last verified: April 2026 | King George County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for King George County is available at the Virginia Courts website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In King George County, obstruction cases are heard at the King George County General District Court. Prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly to obstruct an officer. A strong defense often focuses on whether the officer was acting lawfully and whether your intent can be proven.
- Receive a summons or warrant for an obstruction charge.
- Attend your arraignment at King George County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions to challenge the evidence or seek dismissal.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential reduction or dismissal.
- Proceed to a bench trial in General District Court or demand a jury trial in Circuit Court.
- If convicted, file an appeal to the King George County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in King George County
In King George County, obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction of Justice (§ 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Resisting Arrest (§ 18.2-479.1) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside obstruction |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Criminal Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. We have handled more than firm-wide 4,739 cases with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and challenged.
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
Case Results
Our firm has a documented record in King George County. We have 4 documented results in this jurisdiction, with 3 cases resulting in dismissals or not-guilty verdicts, representing a 75% favorable outcome rate. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For instance, our team has successfully had charges like destruction of property amended or dismissed in other Virginia courts. Mr. Sris, our managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Local Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the King George County courts. We are accessible via Route 3, Route 301, and Route 206. If you need an obstruction of justice defense lawyer King George County or a resisting arrest defense lawyer King George County, we provide 24/7 phone consultations.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Serving: King George, Dahlgren
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in King George County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in King George County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor carries up to 6 months and a $1,000 fine. Obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can criminal charges be expunged in King George County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions for obstruction cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in King George County Circuit Court.
How does bail work in King George County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors like obstruction. Secured bond (requiring a bail bondsman) is more typical for felonies.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for an obstruction charge in King George County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at King George County General District Court.
What is the difference between obstruction of justice and resisting arrest?
Obstruction of justice (Va. Code § 18.2-460) involves interfering with an officer’s duties. Resisting arrest (Va. Code § 18.2-479.1) specifically involves preventing a lawful arrest. They are often charged together, but each requires the prosecution to prove different elements.
What should I do if I am charged with obstruction?
First, do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a defense lawyer immediately. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer King George County can secure your release, analyze the evidence for weaknesses, and begin building your defense strategy.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our King George County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for the most current legal advice regarding your obstruction charge.