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Obstruction Defense Lawyer in New Kent County, Virginia
An obstruction of justice charge in New Kent County is a serious Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-460, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has 4 documented results in New Kent County: 3 dismissed/not guilty, 1 reduced/amended. Our obstruction defense lawyer New Kent County team provides 24/7 consultations.
Virginia Obstruction of Justice Law
Obstruction of justice in Virginia is 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 actions like providing false information, fleeing, physically interfering, or refusing to comply with a lawful order. The specific elements and penalties depend on the subsection under which you are charged.
Last verified: April 2026 | New Kent County General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, refer to Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). Court information for New Kent County can be found at the New Kent County Combined Courts website.
New Kent County Court Process for Obstruction Charges
Your case will begin at the New Kent County General District Court at 12001 Courthouse Circle. The Commonwealth’s Attorney prosecutes 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 lead to dismissal. For an obstruction of justice defense lawyer New Kent County, early intervention is critical to explore all procedural options.
- 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.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer will negotiate with the prosecutor for a dismissal, reduction, or favorable plea agreement.
- Trial: If no agreement is reached, your case proceeds to a bench trial before a judge in General District Court.
- Appeal for Jury Trial: You have an absolute right to appeal any conviction to New Kent County Circuit Court for a new jury trial.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction in Virginia
In New Kent County, obstruction of justice carries a penalty range from a fine up to a year in jail, depending on the specific act and whether it involved force.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Obstructing without force (Va. Code § 18.2-460(A)) | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Obstructing with force or threat (Va. Code § 18.2-460(C)) | 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 |
| Obstructing by giving false ID to police | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Criminal record |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Obstruction Defense
Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to your defense. Our tagline, “Advocacy Without Borders,” reflects our commitment to vigorous representation. We have a documented record of achieving favorable outcomes for clients facing serious 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 in New Kent County
Our firm has a documented history of results in New Kent County courts. We have achieved 4 documented results in this locality: 3 cases dismissed or found not guilty, and 1 charge reduced or amended, representing a 100% favorable outcome rate for these matters. For example, our team, including experienced attorney Mr. Sris who founded the firm in 1997, has successfully navigated cases from initial charge to favorable resolution.
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Local Obstruction Defense Lawyer Near You
Our Richmond location serves clients at the New Kent County courts (12001 Courthouse Circle). We are accessible via I-64, Route 33, and Route 249. If you are searching for an obstruction defense lawyer near New Kent County or near the Colonial Downs Racetrack, we are here to help. We serve the communities of New Kent, Providence Forge, and Quinton.
24/7 phone consultations — Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225, United States
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in New Kent County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in New Kent 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 New Kent County General District Court.
Can criminal charges be expunged in New Kent 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 New Kent County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer for an obstruction charge in New Kent County?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor obstruction charge carries up to 12 months in jail and creates a permanent criminal record. Charges are prosecuted by the Commonwealth’s Attorney and heard at New Kent County General District Court. A resisting arrest defense lawyer New Kent County can protect your rights and future.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in New Kent County?
New Kent County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. New Kent County Circuit Court handles felony jury trials and appeals from GDC. You have an absolute right to a jury trial in Circuit Court for any offense carrying jail time.
How does bail work in New Kent County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in New Kent County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to New Kent County General District Court.
Internal Resources: For more information, see our Virginia Criminal Defense hub page. We also assist clients in nearby areas like Henrico County and Chesterfield County. If you are facing other charges, explore our services for DUI defense in New Kent County.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for current legal guidance regarding your specific case.
