Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Manassas Park, Virginia — What Are Your Rights?
Obstruction of justice in Manassas Park is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 3 total documented case results in Manassas Park across all practice areas.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it unlawful to obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. This can include actions like providing false information, fleeing, physically interfering, or refusing to comply with a lawful command. The specific elements the prosecution must prove depend on the subsection charged. For example, obstructing without force is a Class 1 misdemeanor, while doing so with threats or force can elevate the charge to a Class 5 felony. The law is designed to protect the integrity of legal and judicial processes.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for these cases are handled at the Manassas Park General District Court for misdemeanors and the Manassas Park Circuit Court for felonies.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and evidence.
- We will file pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of the stop or arrest if applicable.
- We negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, often seeking a reduction or dismissal.
- If no favorable plea is reached, we prepare for and conduct a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
Penalties for Obstruction in Manassas Park
In Manassas Park, obstruction of justice carries penalties ranging from fines to years in prison, depending on the specific actions involved and whether force was used.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing without force (Va. Code § 18.2-460(A)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record |
| Obstructing with threats or force (Va. Code § 18.2-460(B)) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of firearm rights |
| Resisting arrest (often charged alongside obstruction) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Can lead to additional assault charges |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Park Courts
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to every case. Our firm-wide track record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Manassas Park, we have 3 total documented case results across all practice areas. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and how to challenge them effectively. For cases involving resisting arrest, our resisting arrest defense lawyer Manassas Park leverages this experience to protect clients.
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 & Defense Strategy
Our approach to obstruction defense involves a meticulous review of the encounter. We examine whether the officer was acting in the lawful performance of their duties and whether your actions constituted a willful obstruction. Common defenses include lack of intent, mistaken identity, or an unlawful order. For example, we successfully had a charge of driving on a suspended license amended to a non-moving violation of “No Driver’s License” in Albemarle County GDC. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Secondary attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Local Defense Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park courts (9311 Lee Avenue). We are your local obstruction defense lawyer Manassas Park residents trust, serving the communities of Manassas Park. 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Obstruction Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas Park, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas Park carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Obstruction without force is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can obstruction charges be expunged in Manassas Park?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2 for acquittals, dismissals (nolle prosequi), and cases where charges are otherwise dropped. Most convictions cannot be expunged. A successful first-offender disposition may lead to a dismissal eligible for expungement.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction of justice is a broader charge covering any willful interference with an officer’s duties. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction that involves preventing an officer from effecting a lawful arrest. Both are serious and often charged together.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge in Manassas Park?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases vigorously. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Manassas Park can identify weaknesses and fight for a reduction or dismissal.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction?
Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact a lawyer immediately. Exercise your right to remain silent. We will guide you through the process at Manassas Park General District Court and protect your rights at every stage.
Internal Links: For more on related charges, see our page on Virginia criminal defense. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Manassas Park DUI defense services.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.