Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Rappahannock County, Virginia
An obstruction of justice charge in Rappahannock County is a serious offense 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 3 documented results in Rappahannock County. Our obstruction defense lawyer Rappahannock County team provides 24/7 phone consultations. Call (888) 437-7747 for a case review by appointment.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it a crime to 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, which is covered under the same statute. The severity of the charge depends on the specific actions and whether force was used.
Last verified: April 2026 | Rappahannock County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Rappahannock County is available at the Rappahannock County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Rappahannock County, an obstruction of justice case begins at the Rappahannock County General District Court at 250 Gay Street, Suite 1, Washington, VA. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these misdemeanors. A strong defense often involves challenging the officer’s perception of obstruction and whether your actions met the legal definition. Our experience shows that early negotiation can be effective.
- Receive a summons or warrant for an obstruction charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Rappahannock County GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review evidence and police reports for procedural issues.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for a bench trial in GDC if no agreement is reached.
- If convicted, you can appeal to Rappahannock County Circuit Court for a new trial.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Virginia
In Rappahannock County, obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the act involves force or threats of force, it can become a felony.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstruction of Justice (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Obstruction with Force (Felony) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of certain rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Rappahannock County
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris. Our firm has over 120 years of combined legal experience and a record of 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Rappahannock County, we have 3 documented criminal defense results, with 2 reduced or amended—a 67% favorable outcome rate for this locality. Our approach is built on a deep understanding of local court procedures.
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-wide record includes 4,739+ case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. In Rappahannock County specifically, we have 3 documented criminal defense results, with 2 charges reduced or amended. For example, our team has successfully had charges like driving on a suspended license amended to a non-criminal traffic offense. Another experienced attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Rappahannock County Obstruction Defense Lawyer
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Rappahannock County courts (250 Gay Street). We are accessible via Route 211, Route 522, and Route 29. If you need an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Rappahannock County or a resisting arrest defense lawyer Rappahannock County, we serve the communities of Washington, Sperryville, and Flint Hill.
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 the penalty for a misdemeanor in Rappahannock County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Rappahannock County carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor. Cases are heard at Rappahannock County General District Court.
Can obstruction charges be expunged in Rappahannock County?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. If an obstruction charge is dismissed or you are found not guilty, you may petition for expungement in Rappahannock County Circuit Court. Most convictions cannot be expunged.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
In Virginia, both are covered under Va. Code § 18.2-460. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction that occurs when an officer is attempting to lawfully arrest you. An obstruction defense lawyer Rappahannock County can analyze whether the officer’s actions were lawful and if your conduct meets the legal threshold for the charge.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge in Rappahannock County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. The charge is prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney at Rappahannock County General District Court. A lawyer can protect your rights and work toward a dismissal or reduction.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction?
First, do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney. Contact an obstruction defense lawyer Rappahannock County immediately. Note the details of the incident. Attend all court dates. Your lawyer will obtain the police report and evidence to build your defense strategy.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing charges in Rappahannock County, you may also need information about Virginia criminal defense. For charges in nearby areas, see our pages for Fairfax County criminal defense or Prince William County criminal defense. For other legal issues in Rappahannock County, consider DUI defense or family law.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.