Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Manassas Park, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
An obstruction of justice charge in Manassas Park is a serious 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. provides a strong defense for these charges, which often stem from interactions with law enforcement at the Manassas Park General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas Park General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it unlawful to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, physically interfering, or refusing to comply with a lawful command. The charge is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. A related charge, resisting arrest under the same statute, is also a Class 1 misdemeanor. These charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at the Manassas Park General District Court located at 9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information, including hours and contact details, can be found on the Manassas Park General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Manassas Park, an obstruction charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case proceeds in the Manassas Park General District Court for all misdemeanor trials. Prosecutors in this jurisdiction must prove you acted knowingly to obstruct an officer. A common defense involves challenging whether the officer was engaged in a lawful duty or whether your actions constituted a true obstruction versus a simple misunderstanding.
- Receive a summons or be arrested on an obstruction charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Manassas Park GDC to enter a plea.
- Your attorney will review all police reports and evidence during discovery.
- File pre-trial motions to challenge the legality of the police interaction.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Proceed to a bench trial in GDC or appeal to Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Manassas Park
In Manassas Park, obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and 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, possible probation, impact on employment/security clearances |
| Resisting Arrest (Va. Code § 18.2-460) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside other offenses, can lead to enhanced penalties |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Manassas Park Courts
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 favorable outcomes for clients facing criminal charges in Northern Virginia. Our attorneys are familiar with the procedures and personnel at the Manassas Park General District Court. Mr. Sris’s background as a former prosecutor provides unique insight into how these cases are built and how to effectively challenge them.
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 has achieved 3 total documented case results across all practice areas in this locality with a 100% favorable outcome rate. In one representative case, our team successfully had a charge of driving on a suspended license amended to a non-criminal traffic violation of “No Driver’s License” in Albemarle County General District Court. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our secondary attorney, Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, brings his extensive experience amending Virginia law and handling complex cases to support our defense strategies.
Local Defense for Manassas Park Residents
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas Park courts. We are your local obstruction defense lawyer Manassas Park near the Manassas Park Community Center and Signal Hill Park. We serve the Manassas Park community. Available for 24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Fairfax
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Manassas Park, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Manassas Park carries up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. A Class 2 misdemeanor: up to 6 months/$1,000. Common charges include assault and battery (§ 18.2-57), petit larceny under $1,000 (§ 18.2-96), and driving on suspended (§ 46.2-301). Cases heard at Manassas Park General District Court (9311 Lee Avenue, Suite 230, Manassas, VA 20110). 3 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Manassas Park, Virginia?
It depends. Virginia allows expungement for acquittals, dismissals, and nolle prosequi under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. Most convictions cannot be expunged. The petition is filed in Manassas Park Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition. 3 total documented case results across all practice areas (100% favorable outcome rate).
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, obstruction of justice is knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or magistrate in their duties. This can be through force, threat, or providing false information. It is a Class 1 misdemeanor. A related charge is resisting arrest, which is also prosecuted under this statute.
Do I need an obstruction defense lawyer in Manassas Park?
Yes. An obstruction charge creates a permanent criminal record and carries jail time. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at Manassas Park General District Court. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Manassas Park can challenge the evidence, negotiate for a reduction, or seek a dismissal to protect your future.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Both are under Va. Code § 18.2-460. Obstruction is a broader term for interfering with an officer’s duties. Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction involving preventing an arrest. Both are Class 1 misdemeanors. A skilled resisting arrest defense lawyer Manassas Park can analyze the specifics of the police interaction to build your defense.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County and Prince William County. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services in Manassas Park: DUI/DWI defense and reckless driving defense.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for current guidance.