Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Chesterfield County, Virginia
Obstruction of justice is a serious charge under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine in Chesterfield County. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented results in Chesterfield County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended. Our obstruction defense lawyer Chesterfield County team provides 24/7 consultations.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
In Virginia, obstruction of justice is defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it a crime to obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person 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 specific elements and penalties depend on the subsection under which you are charged.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesterfield County General District Court | Va. Code § 18.2-460
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the Virginia obstruction statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for Chesterfield County can be found at the Chesterfield County General District Court website.
Chesterfield County Court Process for Obstruction Charges
An obstruction of justice charge in Chesterfield County begins with an arrest or summons. The case is heard at the Chesterfield County General District Court at 9500 Courthouse Road. Prosecutors from the Commonwealth’s Attorney’s office handle these cases. A key local procedural fact is that first offender programs under Va. Code § 19.2-303.2 may be available, where successful completion can result in dismissal. For those seeking an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Chesterfield County, understanding the local court’s approach is critical.
- Receive your summons or warrant with a court date for Chesterfield County General District Court.
- Consult with an obstruction defense lawyer Chesterfield County immediately to review the charges and police report.
- Attend your arraignment, where you will enter a plea of not guilty to preserve all defense options.
- Your lawyer will file pre-trial motions, negotiate with the prosecutor, and prepare for a possible trial.
- If no plea agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to Chesterfield County Circuit Court for a jury trial.
Penalties for Obstruction of Justice in Chesterfield County
In Chesterfield County, obstruction of justice under Va. Code § 18.2-460 is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, punishable by up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing Justice (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Permanent criminal record, difficulty finding employment, immigration consequences for non-citizens. |
| Obstructing Justice (Felony – involving force) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months + $2,500 at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of voting rights, prohibition on firearm possession. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Chesterfield County 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. In Chesterfield County, we have a documented record of handling obstruction and related charges. Our approach is informed by a deep understanding of local court procedures and prosecutorial strategies.
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
Our team also includes Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, which provides an advantage in complex cases.
Case Results
In Chesterfield County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 5 documented criminal case results: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 2 reduced/amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Sample outcomes from our files include a “Not Guilty” verdict for a profane language over public airway charge and a “Dismissed” result for a purchase/possess alcohol charge, both in Chesterfield General District Court.
Contact Our Chesterfield County Obstruction Defense Lawyers
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesterfield County and is accessible via I-95, I-295, and Route 1. We are a trusted obstruction defense lawyer Chesterfield County residents rely on, also serving nearby areas like Midlothian, Chester, Colonial Heights, Bon Air, Brandermill, and Moseley.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesterfield County 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 Chesterfield County General District Court (9500 Courthouse Road, Chesterfield, VA 23832).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Chesterfield County, Virginia?
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 Chesterfield County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction of justice in Chesterfield County?
It depends. Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact a resisting arrest defense lawyer Chesterfield County immediately. Your lawyer will obtain the police report, assess the strength of the prosecution’s case, and advise you on the best strategy, which could include negotiating a reduction, seeking a first offender program, or preparing for trial.
What’s the difference between obstruction of justice and resisting arrest?
Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction of justice. Under Virginia law, resisting arrest typically involves physical acts to prevent an officer from effecting an arrest. A broader obstruction charge can include verbal interference, providing false information, or fleeing. Both are serious and require a skilled obstruction of justice defense lawyer Chesterfield County.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge in Chesterfield County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases aggressively. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Chesterfield County can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible outcome.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Colonial Heights. If you are facing other charges, explore our related services: DUI Lawyer in Chesterfield County and Family Law Lawyer in Chesterfield County.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.