Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Prince William County, Virginia
Obstruction of justice is a serious charge in Prince William 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 141 documented results in Prince William County. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Prince William County is essential to challenge the prosecution’s evidence and protect your rights.
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 official in the performance of their duties. This can include actions like providing false identification, fleeing from an officer, or physically interfering with an arrest. The charge is often paired with resisting arrest, which is addressed under a separate subsection of the same statute. The prosecution must prove you knowingly and willfully impeded an officer.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince William 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). For court procedures and locations, visit the Prince William County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Prince William County, obstruction cases are heard at the General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue in Manassas. Prosecutors must prove you acted with intent to obstruct. A key local procedural fact is that the Commonwealth’s Attorney often pairs obstruction with resisting arrest charges, requiring a defense that addresses both allegations simultaneously. The court handles all misdemeanor trials, and you have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court if the charge carries jail time.
- Receive a summons or warrant for an obstruction charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Prince William County General District Court to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will file pre-trial motions to challenge evidence or seek dismissal.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a potential reduction or dismissal.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC or demand a jury trial in Prince William County Circuit Court.
- If convicted, explore post-trial motions or an appeal to Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Prince William County
In Prince William County, obstruction of justice carries a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Resisting arrest is a separate charge under the same statute with identical penalties.
| 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 | Permanent criminal record, impact on employment, immigration status |
| Resisting Arrest (§ 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside obstruction, potential for enhanced penalties if force is used. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your 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 moment of confusion or fear during a police encounter, and we build defenses that contextualize your actions for the court.
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 Prince William County
Our firm has a documented history of successful outcomes in Prince William County courts. We have achieved 141 case results specific to this jurisdiction, including 118 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 19 charges reduced or amended. For example, our team, including Of Counsel attorney Kristen Fisher, a former Maryland prosecutor, has successfully argued for dismissals of obstruction charges by challenging the prosecution’s evidence of intent.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Obstruction Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Prince William County courts. We are your local obstruction defense lawyer near Manassas and Woodbridge. We serve communities across Prince William County including Manassas, Woodbridge, Dale City, Dumfries, Gainesville, Haymarket, Lake Ridge, and Occoquan.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Prince William County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Prince William County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. Cases are heard at Prince William County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Prince William County, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If your obstruction charge is dismissed, you may petition for expungement in Prince William County Circuit Court. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction of justice?
First, do not discuss the incident with anyone except your attorney. Contact an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Prince William County immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, review the evidence for weaknesses in the prosecution’s case regarding your intent, and develop a strategy, which may include seeking a dismissal or reduction.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction of justice involves knowingly impeding an officer’s duties, which can be verbal or passive. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction that involves physically opposing a lawful arrest. Both are under Va. Code § 18.2-460 and are often charged together, requiring a defense lawyer skilled in handling both allegations.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge?
Yes. An obstruction conviction creates a permanent criminal record, can affect employment, and carries jail time. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Prince William County can challenge the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and protect your rights in court, significantly impacting the outcome.
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.