Obstruction Defense Lawyer Henrico County — What Are Your Options?
An obstruction of justice charge in Henrico County is a serious offense under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine as a Class 1 misdemeanor. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has documented results defending clients at the Henrico County General District Court.
Last verified: April 2026 | Henrico County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Virginia Law on Obstruction of Justice
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is defined by Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it illegal to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, fleeing, physically interfering, or refusing to comply with a lawful command. The specific elements and penalties can vary based on the circumstances and the identity of the person being obstructed.
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of how these statutes are applied in local courts. Our obstruction defense lawyer Henrico County team analyzes the specific actions alleged to build an effective defense strategy.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures and filing information can be found on the Henrico County General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges in Henrico
In Henrico County, obstruction charges are typically prosecuted as misdemeanors in the Henrico County General District Court located at 4301 East Parham Road. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Henrico County must prove you knowingly obstructed justice. A key local procedural fact is that the court routinely sees cases where the line between lawful conduct and obstruction is contested, often depending on the officer’s commands and the defendant’s understanding.
- Receive a summons or warrant following an arrest or investigation.
- Appear for arraignment at Henrico County GDC to hear the formal charge and enter a plea.
- Engage in pre-trial discovery and motion practice, which may include challenging the sufficiency of the evidence.
- Consider negotiation for a reduction or dismissal, or proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- If convicted, you have the right to appeal the verdict for a new trial in Henrico County Circuit Court.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Virginia
In Henrico County, obstruction of justice 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 | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing Justice (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | Criminal record, impact on employment |
| Obstructing Justice (Felony – involving force) | Class 5 Felony | 1-10 years (or up to 12 months) | Up to $2,500 | Felony record, loss of civil rights |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Our Experience in Henrico County Courts
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our firm-wide record includes over 4,739 case results with a favorable outcome rate exceeding 93%. In Henrico County, we have a documented history of achieving positive results for clients facing criminal allegations. Our team includes former prosecutors and a former Virginia State Trooper, providing unique insight into how these cases are built and challenged.
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
Case Results for Henrico County Clients
Our approach focuses on meticulous case analysis. For example, our team has successfully defended clients in Henrico County General District Court on charges ranging from reckless driving to selling alcohol to an unauthorized person, securing dismissals. While every case is unique, our documented results in the locality show a pattern of vigorous defense.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Contact Our Henrico County Obstruction Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Henrico County, including Glen Allen, Short Pump, and Innsbrook. We are accessible via I-64, I-95, and I-295. If you need an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Henrico County or a resisting arrest defense lawyer Henrico County, we are available to discuss your case.
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 obstruction of justice in Virginia?
Yes. Under Va. Code § 18.2-460, obstruction of justice involves knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official in their duties. This can include giving false information, physically interfering, or fleeing. It is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Can I be charged with obstruction for arguing with a police officer?
It depends. Mere verbal argument is generally not obstruction. However, if the argument escalates to physically interfering with an arrest or investigation, or if it includes knowingly providing false identification or information that hinders the officer, charges may be filed. The key element is whether your actions knowingly obstructed the officer’s lawful duty.
What should I do if I’m charged with obstruction in Henrico County?
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your attorney.
- Contact a criminal defense lawyer familiar with Henrico County General District Court.
- Gather any evidence you have, such as witness contact information.
- Attend all court dates. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer Henrico County can guide you through each step.
What’s the difference between obstruction and resisting arrest?
Resisting arrest is a specific type of obstruction. Va. Code § 18.2-460(C) defines resisting arrest as knowingly preventing or attempting to prevent a lawful arrest. Obstruction is a broader category that can include resisting arrest, but also covers hindering investigations, disobeying lawful commands, or providing false information to an officer.
Is obstruction a felony in Virginia?
It can be. Simple obstruction is usually a misdemeanor. However, obstruction committed by using threats or force against a law enforcement officer is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-460(B), punishable by 1-10 years in prison.
Can an obstruction charge be expunged in Virginia?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. If the obstruction charge results in an acquittal, dismissal, or nolle prosequi (dropped by prosecutor), you may petition for expungement under Va. Code § 19.2-392.2. A conviction for obstruction generally cannot be expunged from your record.
Related Legal Services in Henrico County
If you are facing related charges, you may need a DUI lawyer in Henrico County or a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County. For a broader overview of our services, visit our Virginia criminal defense hub page.