
Obstruction Defense Lawyer Fairfax County — What Are Your Options?
Obstruction of justice in Fairfax County 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 501 documented results in Fairfax County. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax County can challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect your rights.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Understanding Obstruction of Justice Charges in Virginia
Obstruction of justice, defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460, involves knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, fleeing, or physically interfering. In Fairfax County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fairfax County General District Court (4110 Chain Bridge Road, Suite 210, Fairfax, VA 22030). The firm, founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to these complex cases.
- Secure representation immediately after arrest or receiving a summons.
- Your attorney will obtain and review all police reports and body camera footage.
- A motion may be filed to suppress evidence if your rights were violated during the encounter.
- Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney, often seeking a reduction to a non-obstruction charge or dismissal.
- If a favorable plea cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial in GDC or a jury trial in Circuit Court.
In Fairfax County, obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine, plus 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, impacts employment, professional licenses, immigration status |
| Obstructing Justice (Felony – involving force) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of civil rights, severe immigration consequences |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Fairfax County Obstruction Defense
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. operates on the principle of “Advocacy Without Borders.” Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing a complete understanding of how obstruction cases are built and can be challenged. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep commitment to impacting the law in our clients’ favor. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes in Northern Virginia courts.
Kristen Fisher, Of Counsel (Former Prosecutor)
Kristen Fisher, a former Assistant State’s Attorney in Maryland, is the primary attorney for criminal defense matters in Virginia, including obstruction charges. Admitted to the Virginia and Maryland bars, her prosecutorial background provides critical insight into case strategies used by the Commonwealth’s Attorney in Fairfax County. She focuses on litigation, vigorously defending clients in General District and Circuit Courts.
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
Case Results and Client Advocacy
Our firm has 501 documented case results in Fairfax County, with 336 cases dismissed or resulting in not guilty verdicts and 143 charges reduced or amended. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. For example, our team has successfully defended against charges where the alleged obstruction was based on a misunderstanding or where an officer’s commands were unclear. In one case, client testimony and cross-examination of the officer led to a dismissal. Another case involved a resisting arrest defense lawyer Fairfax County securing a reduction to a lesser infraction. Secondary attorney Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Local Fairfax County Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Fairfax County courts. We are your local obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax County near Fairfax, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, McLean, Vienna, Tysons, Oakton, Springfield, Annandale, and the Falls Church area.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
Phones 24/7/365. Office by appointment only.
FAQs: Obstruction of Justice Defense in Fairfax County
What does “obstruction of justice” mean in Virginia?
It depends. Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, obstruction of justice involves knowingly hindering a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official. This can be physical interference, providing false identification, fleeing, or giving false information. The specific actions and intent determine the charge and potential defenses.
Can I go to jail for obstruction of justice in Fairfax County?
Yes. A Class 1 misdemeanor obstruction charge carries a maximum penalty of 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. While jail time is not automatic, the risk is significant, especially if you have a prior record or the allegation involves force, which could elevate it to a felony.
What’s the difference between obstruction of justice and resisting arrest?
Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Fairfax County focuses on allegations of physically preventing an officer from making a lawful arrest. Obstruction is a broader category that includes resisting arrest but also covers non-physical acts like lying or running away.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of obstruction?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely state you wish to speak with an obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax County before answering any questions. Contact our firm 24/7 at (888) 437-7747.
How can a lawyer help with an obstruction charge?
An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax County can challenge whether the officer was lawfully performing their duties, argue a lack of intent, file motions to suppress evidence, and negotiate for a reduction or dismissal. Early intervention is key to building a strong defense.
Internal Links: For more information on related charges, see our page on Virginia Criminal Defense. We also assist clients in neighboring areas like Falls Church and Prince William County. If you are also facing other charges, our Fairfax DUI lawyers can help.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
