Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Prince George County, Virginia
An obstruction of justice charge in Prince George County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine for misdemeanor obstruction. As an obstruction defense lawyer Prince George County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 1 documented results in this locality. Our former prosecutors understand how these cases are built.
Last verified: April 2026 | Prince George County 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 illegal to obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person 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—whether a Class 1 or Class 2 misdemeanor or a felony—depends on the specific actions and whether force was used or injury caused.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Prince George County cases are heard at the Prince George County General District Court.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Prince George County, an obstruction charge begins with an arrest or summons. The case proceeds in General District Court for misdemeanors. Prosecutors must prove you knowingly and willfully impeded an officer. A common defense is lack of intent—arguing the action was not deliberate obstruction.
- Receive a summons or be arrested on an obstruction charge.
- Attend your arraignment at Prince George County General District Court (6601 Courts Drive).
- Your attorney will review the police report and bodycam footage for defenses.
- File pre-trial motions to suppress evidence or dismiss if the stop was unlawful.
- Negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for a reduction or dismissal.
- Proceed to trial if a fair plea cannot be reached.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Prince George County
In Prince George County, obstruction of justice carries penalties from a fine to a year in jail, with the classification depending on the specific actions alleged under the statute.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing without force (Va. Code § 18.2-460(A)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Obstructing with threats or 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 |
| Obstructing by giving false ID (Va. Code § 18.2-460(D)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Obstruction 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+ documented case results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. We understand that an obstruction charge can stem from a tense moment, and we focus on building a defense that addresses the specific circumstances of your interaction with law enforcement.
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 and Client Advocacy
Our firm has 1 documented case result in Prince George County. On a firm-wide level across VA, MD, NJ, NY, and DC, we have achieved 4,739+ results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. For obstruction and resisting arrest defense, our team, including secondary attorney Mr. Sris—a former prosecutor and firm founder—examines the legality of the initial police contact and the defendant’s intent.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Prince George County Obstruction Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at the Prince George County courts (6601 Courts Drive). We are accessible via I-295, Route 10, and Route 36. If you need an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Prince George County or a resisting arrest defense lawyer Prince George County near the Hopewell area, contact us for a consultation.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Obstruction of Justice Defense FAQs
What is the penalty for obstruction of justice in Prince George County?
It depends. Simple obstruction without force is a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. If the obstruction involves threats or force, it becomes a Class 6 felony, carrying 1-5 years in prison.
Can I be charged with both obstruction and resisting arrest?
Yes. Resisting arrest is a subset of obstruction defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460(C). It is common for prosecutors to charge both if actions during an arrest allegedly hindered the officer. A skilled lawyer can often argue these are duplicate charges for the same act.
What is a common defense to an obstruction charge?
A common defense is lack of intent. The prosecution must prove you knowingly and willfully obstructed justice. If your actions were accidental, based on a misunderstanding, or if the officer’s order was unlawful, you may have a valid defense. An obstruction defense lawyer Prince George County can evaluate the specifics.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor obstruction charge?
Yes. Even a Class 1 misdemeanor carries up to a year in jail and creates a permanent criminal record that can affect employment and housing. The Prince George County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively. Having a lawyer is critical to protect your rights and explore options for dismissal or reduction.
Where are obstruction cases heard in Prince George County?
Misdemeanor obstruction cases are heard at the Prince George County General District Court at 6601 Courts Drive. If the charge is a felony (involving force), it may begin with a preliminary hearing in GDC before moving to Prince George County Circuit Court for trial.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change—contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. For other legal needs in Prince George County, consider our services for DUI defense or family law.