Obstruction Defense Lawyer Arlington County — What Are Your Options?
Obstruction of justice in Arlington County is a serious charge 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 21 documented results in Arlington County for related criminal charges.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice, often charged alongside resisting arrest, is defined in Virginia Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it unlawful to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false identification, physically interfering, or fleeing to avoid arrest. In Arlington County, these cases are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Arlington County General District Court at 1425 N. Courthouse Rd. The firm’s founder, a former prosecutor, brings critical insight to building a defense against such charges.
Last verified: April 2026 | Arlington County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). For Arlington County court procedures, visit the Arlington County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Arlington County, an obstruction of justice charge typically begins with an arrest or summons. The case proceeds in General District Court for misdemeanor trials. Prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly. A common defense is arguing a lack of intent or that the officer was not engaged in a lawful duty. For a resisting arrest defense lawyer Arlington County, challenging the legality of the underlying stop is often key.
- Initial Appearance: You will be arraigned, informed of the charge, and can request court-appointed counsel if eligible.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if your rights were violated.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will engage with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Arlington County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Arlington
In Arlington County, obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 12 months in jail, a fine of up to $2,500, and a permanent criminal record.
| 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; can affect employment, housing, professional licenses. |
| Resisting Arrest (§ 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside obstruction; enhances perceived severity. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Defense
Founded in 1997 by a former prosecutor, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined attorney experience to complex criminal defenses like obstruction. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment. Mr. Sris personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep understanding of state law. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes in Arlington County.
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
Documented Case Results in Arlington County
Our firm has 21 documented criminal case results in Arlington County, including 11 dismissals or not-guilty verdicts and 10 charges reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these cases. Specific results relevant to obstruction defense include a nolle prosequi (dismissal) for a destruction of property charge and a dismissal for a littering charge in Arlington County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Mr. Sris, the firm’s managing attorney and a former prosecutor, provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers a unique advantage in cases involving detailed evidence.
Arlington County Obstruction Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Arlington location at 1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719, Arlington, VA 22209 serves clients at the Arlington County courts. We represent individuals in neighborhoods including Arlington, Crystal City, Rosslyn, Clarendon, Ballston, Pentagon City, and Shirlington. We are a local obstruction defense lawyer Arlington County residents can consult.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: 703-589-9250 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
1655 Fort Myer Dr, Suite 700, Room No. 719
Arlington, VA 22209
By appointment only.
Obstruction of Justice Defense FAQs
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, obstruction of justice is knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer. This can be verbal, physical, or by providing false information. In Arlington County, it’s a Class 1 misdemeanor with penalties of up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine.
Can obstruction charges be dropped in Arlington County?
It depends. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Arlington County can seek dismissal by challenging the officer’s probable cause for the initial interaction or proving a lack of intent. Successful completion of a first offender program under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may also lead to dismissal.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction is a broader charge for hindering an officer’s duties. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction involving preventing your own lawful arrest. Both are Class 1 misdemeanors and are often charged together in Arlington County.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge?
Yes. Even as a misdemeanor, a conviction creates a permanent criminal record affecting jobs and housing. The Commonwealth’s Attorney in Arlington County vigorously prosecutes these cases. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Arlington County can protect your rights and seek the best possible outcome.
What are common defenses to obstruction?
Common defenses include lack of knowledge that the person was an officer, that the officer was not engaged in a lawful duty, or that your actions did not constitute a substantial hindrance. Your attorney will review all evidence, including body camera footage from the Arlington County Police.
Related Legal Resources
If you are facing other charges, our firm also provides strong defense for DUI charges in Arlington County and criminal defense in Alexandria. For a broader overview, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding obstruction of justice charges.