Obstruction Defense Lawyer Fairfax — What Are Your Legal Options?
Obstruction of justice in Fairfax County is a serious offense under Virginia law, often charged alongside resisting arrest. An obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s case, arguing lack of intent or lawful authority. With 501 documented results in Fairfax County, our team understands the local court procedures. Contact us 24/7 for a case review.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Laws
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460, which makes it unlawful to obstruct a law enforcement officer in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, fleeing, or physically interfering. The statute is often paired with charges for resisting arrest under the same code section. The severity of the charge—whether a Class 1 or Class 2 misdemeanor—depends on the specific actions and whether force was used against the officer.
Last verified: April 2026 | Fairfax County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-460 (obstructing justice). Court procedures and local rules for Fairfax County can be found on the Fairfax County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Fairfax County, obstruction and resisting arrest cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Fairfax County General District Court. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly and willfully obstructed an officer. A common defense is that the officer was not engaged in a lawful duty or that your actions lacked criminal intent. Our team, led by former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, has observed that these charges are frequently added during tense encounters, and the specifics of the officer’s commands are critical.
- Receive a summons or warrant for obstruction of justice/resisting arrest.
- Attend your arraignment at Fairfax County GDC (4110 Chain Bridge Road) to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file motions to challenge the sufficiency of the evidence or seek discovery.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal, or proceed to a bench trial in GDC.
- If convicted, you can appeal for a new trial by jury in Fairfax County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction and Resisting Arrest
In Fairfax County, obstruction of justice and resisting arrest are typically Class 1 misdemeanors, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the act involves force or threat of force, penalties can be more severe.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing Justice (Va. Code § 18.2-460(A)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record; can affect employment, professional licenses. |
| Resisting Arrest (Va. Code § 18.2-460(C)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside other offenses; may lead to higher bond. |
| Obstructing w/ Force (Va. Code § 18.2-460(B)) | Class 6 Felony | 1-5 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record; loss of civil rights (voting, firearms). |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Firm’s Experience in Fairfax County
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 a documented record of 501 case results specifically in Fairfax County, achieving dismissals, not-guilty verdicts, and charge reductions. Our deep familiarity with the Fairfax County Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office and local judges allows us to build effective defense strategies for clients facing obstruction and resisting arrest charges.
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 in Fairfax County
Our obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax team has handled numerous cases in the local courts. For example, we have successfully argued for the dismissal of obstruction charges where the officer’s underlying stop was unlawful. In other cases, we have negotiated amendments from felony obstruction to misdemeanor offenses. Firm founder Mr. Sris provides strategic oversight on complex cases, leveraging his decades of experience and background in accounting and information systems for cases involving intricate evidence.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Defense Representation
Our Fairfax location at 4008 Williamsburg Court is centrally located to serve clients at the Fairfax County General District Court. We are your local obstruction of justice defense lawyer Fairfax, also serving surrounding communities like Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Herndon, Reston, and Vienna. For a resisting arrest defense lawyer Fairfax, our team is available 24/7.
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
It is a crime defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. It involves knowingly and willfully obstructing a law enforcement officer in the performance of their duties, which can include running away, giving false information, or physically interfering.
Is resisting arrest the same as obstruction of justice?
No, but they are closely related. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction covered under subsection C of the same statute. Both are often charged together during an arrest scenario.
Can obstruction charges be dropped?
It depends. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Fairfax can file motions to suppress evidence or argue that the officer was not engaged in a lawful duty. Successful pre-trial motions or negotiations with the prosecutor can lead to dismissals or reductions.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction?
Do not discuss the incident with anyone except your attorney. Contact a criminal defense lawyer immediately. Exercise your right to remain silent and your right to an attorney. The specifics of your interaction with the officer will be critical to your defense.
What are the defenses to an obstruction charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent (you didn’t know they were an officer or didn’t mean to obstruct), the officer was not acting lawfully, or your actions were protected by the First Amendment. Each case requires a detailed review of the facts.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page, or learn about related issues like DUI defense in Fairfax. We also serve neighboring areas like Falls Church.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. For the most current advice regarding your specific situation, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747.