Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Manassas, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
An obstruction of justice charge in Manassas is a serious criminal offense under Virginia law, often prosecuted as a Class 1 misdemeanor carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. provides a strong defense for those accused of obstruction or resisting arrest in Manassas General District Court.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is broadly defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. The statute makes it unlawful to knowingly obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. This can include actions like providing false information, physically interfering, fleeing, or hiding evidence. The charge is often paired with resisting arrest under the same statute if force is used against an officer.
Last verified: April 2026 | Manassas General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
The firm was founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, whose background in accounting and information systems provides a unique advantage in dissecting the evidence often central to obstruction cases.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the law, review Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court procedures for Manassas cases are managed by the Manassas General District Court.
Manassas Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Manassas, obstruction and resisting arrest cases begin at the Manassas General District Court at 9311 Lee Avenue. Prosecutors here must prove you acted knowingly to obstruct an officer’s duties. A common local procedural fact is that the court sees many cases where obstruction is charged alongside another primary offense, like disorderly conduct or assault.
- Arraignment: You will be formally charged and 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.
- Discovery: The prosecution must provide all evidence, including police reports and body camera footage.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the Commonwealth’s Attorney to seek a reduction or dismissal.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case will proceed to a bench trial before a judge in GDC.
- Appeal: You have an absolute right to appeal a guilty verdict to the Manassas Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Manassas
In Manassas, obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, but can be elevated to a felony if the act involves force, threats, or corruption.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing Justice (Misdemeanor) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Obstructing Justice (Felony – by threat/force) | 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 |
| Resisting Arrest | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Often charged with obstruction |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Manassas Obstruction Defense Team
Founded in 1997, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to aggressive representation. Mr. Sris, the firm’s founder and a former prosecutor, personally amended Virginia’s equitable distribution statute (Va. Code § 20-107.3), demonstrating a deep understanding of how to handle and influence complex legal systems—a skill directly applicable to building a strong obstruction defense.
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 & Client Focus
SRIS actively practices in Manassas. Firm-wide, SRIS has handled 4,739+ documented case results with over 93% favorable outcomes. Our approach involves a meticulous review of police conduct and evidence. For instance, a strong defense may show you lacked the required “knowing” intent or that the officer was not engaged in a lawful duty at the time of the alleged obstruction.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Manassas Defense Services
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
4008 Williamsburg Ct, Fairfax, VA 22032, United States
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (703) 636-5417
By appointment only.
Our Fairfax location serves clients at the Manassas courts (9311 Lee Avenue). As your obstruction defense lawyer Manassas, we are accessible via I-66 and Route 28. We provide 24/7 phone consultations and serve neighborhoods throughout Manassas. If you need a criminal defense or resisting arrest defense lawyer Manassas, contact us for a case evaluation.
Obstruction of Justice Defense FAQs
What is obstruction of justice in Virginia?
It is knowingly obstructing a law enforcement officer, judge, or other official in their duties, as defined under Va. Code § 18.2-460. Actions can include giving false information, physically interfering, or fleeing.
Is obstruction of justice a felony in Manassas?
It depends. Simple obstruction is a Class 1 misdemeanor. However, if the obstruction is done through threats of force or corrupt means, it becomes a Class 5 felony, carrying 1-10 years in prison.
What’s 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 using force or threats to prevent being arrested.
Can obstruction charges be dropped in Manassas?
Yes. An experienced obstruction of justice defense lawyer Manassas can often get charges reduced or dismissed by challenging the officer’s probable cause, proving a lack of intent, or negotiating a favorable resolution, such as a first-offender program.
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 to prove the “knowing” intent required for the charge. Politely decline to answer questions and request an attorney immediately.
What are the defenses to an obstruction charge?
Common defenses include lack of intent, the officer was not acting lawfully, mistaken identity, or that your actions were protected speech. Each case is unique and requires a detailed analysis by your obstruction defense lawyer Manassas.