Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Greene County, Virginia
Obstruction of justice is a serious criminal charge in Greene County, Virginia, prosecuted under Va. Code § 18.2-460. An obstruction defense lawyer Greene County from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s case, which often hinges on proving you intentionally hindered a law enforcement officer. With 1 documented result in Greene County, our firm provides a strong defense.
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 and willfully 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, physically interfering with an arrest, or refusing to comply with a lawful command. The specific intent to obstruct is a required element the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt.
Last verified: April 2026 | Greene County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the full text of the law, refer to the official Virginia Code § 18.2-460. Court procedures and local rules for Greene County can be found on the Greene County General District Court website.
Defending Against Obstruction Charges in Greene County
In Greene County General District Court, prosecutors must establish you acted with a specific intent to obstruct. A common defense is that the officer’s order was unlawful or that your actions were misinterpreted. For instance, merely arguing with an officer or walking away may not constitute obstruction if there was no clear, lawful command to stop.
- Initial Consultation: Contact an obstruction defense lawyer Greene County immediately after arrest or charge.
- Case Review: Your attorney will obtain the police report and any video evidence to assess the prosecution’s case.
- Defense Strategy: Build a defense focusing on lack of intent, unlawful police conduct, or mistaken identity.
- Pre-Trial Motions: File motions to suppress evidence obtained through an unlawful stop or arrest.
- Negotiation or Trial: Seek a dismissal or reduction of charges; if necessary, present your defense at trial in Greene County GDC.
Penalties for Obstruction of Justice in Greene County
In Greene County, obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. If the obstruction involves force or threat of force, it can be charged as 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, potential employment issues |
| Obstruction with Force (Felony) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months at jury discretion) | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Felony record, loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Greene County Criminal Defense
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 Greene County, we have documented case results, including dismissals and not-guilty verdicts. Our team understands the local court procedures and how to effectively challenge obstruction and resisting arrest charges.
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 a documented result in Greene County with a 100% favorable outcome rate in our tracked cases. While every case is unique, our approach is thorough and aggressive. We also work closely with Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions, who provides strategic oversight on complex cases. His background in accounting and information systems offers an additional layer of analysis for cases involving evidence review.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Greene County Obstruction Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Fairfax location serves clients in Greene County. We are accessible via Route 29 and Route 33. We provide legal representation for residents of Stanardsville and Ruckersville.
24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Greene County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Greene 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 are heard at Greene County General District Court.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Can criminal charges be expunged in Greene County, 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 Greene County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction of justice?
Do not speak to law enforcement without an attorney. Contact an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Greene County immediately. Your lawyer will review the circumstances of your arrest, the police report, and any available video to determine if the officer’s command was lawful and if your intent to obstruct can be proven.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Obstruction of justice is a broader charge for hindering an officer’s duties. Resisting arrest, often prosecuted under the same statute, is a specific type of obstruction involving physical actions to prevent an arrest. A resisting arrest defense lawyer Greene County would focus on whether the arrest was lawful and the level of force used.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction charge in Greene County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. The Greene County Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these cases at the General District Court. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Greene County can challenge the evidence and protect your rights.
For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Fairfax County. If you are facing other charges, consider our Greene County DUI defense services.
Page Last verified: April 2026. Laws change — contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current guidance.