Obstruction Defense Lawyer New Kent County — What Are Your Options?
An obstruction of justice charge in New Kent County is a serious criminal offense under Virginia law, carrying potential jail time and a permanent record. As an obstruction defense lawyer New Kent County, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. understands the local procedures at the New Kent County General District Court. Our firm has documented case results in this jurisdiction.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is broadly defined under 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 identification, fleeing from an officer, or physically interfering with an arrest. The charge is often paired with resisting arrest, which is addressed under the same code section.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm brings a foundational understanding of how these charges are built and prosecuted. This insight is critical for building an effective defense strategy from the start.
Official Legal Resources
For the exact language of the law, refer to the official Va. Code § 18.2-460 on the Virginia Legislative Information System. Court procedures and local rules can be reviewed on the New Kent County Courts website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In New Kent County, obstruction and resisting arrest cases begin at the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes these misdemeanors. A key local procedural fact is that these charges are highly dependent on the officer’s testimony and the specific circumstances of the interaction. The court will examine whether the officer was lawfully performing their duties and whether your actions constituted a knowing obstruction.
- Arraignment: Your first court date where the charge is formally read, and you enter a plea of not guilty, guilty, or no contest.
- Pre-Trial Motions: Your attorney may file motions to suppress evidence or dismiss the charge if your rights were violated during the incident.
- Negotiation & Review: Your lawyer will review all evidence, including police reports and any body-worn camera footage, to negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial or Disposition: If a favorable plea agreement cannot be reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal or Circuit Court Trial: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty finding from General District Court to the New Kent County Circuit Court for a new trial, often with a jury.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in New Kent County
In New Kent County, obstruction of justice is typically charged as a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Resisting arrest is also a Class 1 misdemeanor under the same statute.
| 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; can affect employment, professional licenses, and immigration status. |
| Resisting Arrest | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged alongside obstruction; viewed negatively by courts. |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Firm Authority and Experience
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997. Our attorneys combine over 120 years of legal experience. We have handled thousands of criminal cases across Virginia. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute, demonstrating a deep engagement with state law that benefits all our clients.
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
Documented Case Results
While every case is unique, our approach is informed by a history of favorable outcomes. In New Kent County, our firm has a documented record of results in criminal matters. For example, our team has successfully navigated cases where charges were amended to lesser offenses or dismissed following motions challenging the legality of the police encounter. Our secondary attorney on complex criminal matters, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with multi-state bar admissions who founded the firm and keeps a selective caseload to ensure strategic focus.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Representation for New Kent County
Our Richmond location serves clients facing charges at the New Kent County General District Court. We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. If you are searching for an “obstruction of justice defense lawyer New Kent County” or a “resisting arrest defense lawyer New Kent County,” we are available to help. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
Availability: 24/7 phone consultations — meetings by appointment only.
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.
Obstruction Defense Lawyer New Kent County FAQ
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
It is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-460. It involves knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official in their duties, which can include giving false information or physically interfering.
Can obstruction charges be dropped in New Kent County?
It depends. An experienced obstruction defense lawyer New Kent County can argue for dismissal if the officer was not lawfully engaged in their duties, if your actions were not knowing, or if your constitutional rights were violated during the encounter. Success often hinges on the specific facts and available evidence.
What is 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 that involves preventing an officer from placing you under arrest. They are often charged together.
Should I talk to the police if I’m accused of obstruction?
No. You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can be used against you. Politely state that you wish to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Contact a lawyer immediately.
What are the long-term consequences of an obstruction conviction?
A conviction creates a permanent criminal record. This can hinder job prospects, professional licensing, housing applications, and immigration status. It is crucial to fight the charge with the help of a skilled obstruction of justice defense lawyer New Kent County.
Do I need a lawyer for a misdemeanor obstruction charge?
Yes. Even a Class 1 misdemeanor carries a potential jail sentence and lasting collateral consequences. A lawyer can protect your rights, challenge the evidence, and work toward the best possible resolution, which may include avoiding a conviction.
Related Legal Information
If you are facing criminal charges in New Kent County, you may also need information on Virginia criminal defense. For representation in nearby areas, consider our Henrico County criminal defense lawyer or Chesterfield County criminal defense lawyer. For other legal issues in New Kent County, we also handle DUI defense and reckless driving tickets.
Last verified: April 2026. Laws and procedures can change. For the most current advice regarding your obstruction charge, contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a confidential consultation.