Obstruction Defense Lawyer in Chesapeake, Virginia — What Are Your Options?
Obstruction of justice in Chesapeake is a serious offense under Virginia law, often charged alongside resisting arrest. An obstruction defense lawyer Chesapeake from Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. can challenge the prosecution’s case, which requires proving you knowingly hindered a law enforcement officer.
Last verified: April 2026 | Chesapeake General District Court | Virginia General Assembly
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 obstruct a law enforcement officer, judge, magistrate, or other person in the performance of their duties. This can include providing false information, physically interfering, or fleeing to avoid arrest. The law is often paired with charges of resisting arrest, which involves physical force or threat against an officer. Founded in 1997 by former prosecutor Mr. Sris, our firm has a deep understanding of how these charges are constructed and how to defend against them.
Official Legal Resources
For the official text of the obstruction statute, see Va. Code § 18.2-460 (official Virginia General Assembly). For information on the Chesapeake court where these cases are heard, visit the Chesapeake General District Court website.
Local Court Process for Obstruction Charges
In Chesapeake, obstruction and resisting arrest cases begin at the Chesapeake General District Court at 307 Albemarle Drive. Prosecutors must prove you acted knowingly to hinder an officer. A common defense is lack of intent—arguing you did not knowingly obstruct. The court also considers whether the officer was acting within their lawful duties at the time.
- Receive a summons or warrant for obstruction of justice or resisting arrest.
- Arraignment at Chesapeake General District Court, where you enter a plea.
- Pre-trial motions and discovery phase to review evidence.
- Negotiation with the Commonwealth’s Attorney for possible reduction or dismissal.
- Preparation for trial, if a favorable plea cannot be reached.
- Trial before a judge in General District Court or a jury in Circuit Court on appeal.
Potential Penalties for Obstruction and Resisting Arrest
In Chesapeake, obstruction of justice is typically a Class 1 misdemeanor, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Resisting arrest is also a Class 1 misdemeanor with the same penalties.
| 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 | Criminal record, possible probation |
| Resisting Arrest | Class 1 Misdemeanor | Up to 12 months | Up to $2,500 | None directly | Enhanced penalties if injury occurs |
Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.
Why Choose Our Firm for Your Chesapeake Obstruction Defense
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. was founded in 1997 and brings over 120 years of combined legal experience to every case. Our founding attorney, Mr. Sris, is a former prosecutor with a background in accounting and information systems, providing a unique advantage in dissecting case details. We have a documented record of favorable outcomes for clients facing misdemeanor charges in Virginia.
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 Chesapeake
Our firm has a documented result in Chesapeake with a 100% favorable outcome rate for the locality. Results may vary. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Our team, which includes former prosecutor Kristen Fisher, works collaboratively to challenge the evidence and seek dismissals or reductions.
Contact Our Chesapeake Obstruction Defense Lawyer
Our Richmond location serves clients in Chesapeake and the surrounding communities of Deep Creek, Great Bridge, and Greenbrier. We are accessible via I-64, I-464, and Route 168. If you need an obstruction of justice defense lawyer Chesapeake or a resisting arrest defense lawyer Chesapeake near the Chesapeake City Hall or Greenbrier area, we can help.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Dr Suite 300 Room 359, Richmond, VA 23225
Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747 | Local: (804)201-9009
By appointment only. 24/7 phone consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for obstruction of justice in Chesapeake, Virginia?
Obstruction of justice is a Class 1 misdemeanor in Chesapeake, carrying up to 12 months in jail and a $2,500 fine. Cases are heard at Chesapeake General District Court.
Can I be charged with both obstruction and resisting arrest?
Yes. It is common for prosecutors in Chesapeake to charge both obstruction of justice and resisting arrest based on the same incident. An obstruction defense lawyer Chesapeake can work to have one charge dropped or both reduced.
What is a common defense against an obstruction charge?
A common defense is lack of intent. The prosecution must prove you knowingly obstructed an officer. If you were confused, did not understand the officer’s commands, or the officer was not acting lawfully, these can be strong defenses.
Do I need a lawyer for an obstruction of justice charge?
Yes. Even a misdemeanor conviction creates a permanent criminal record. A lawyer can negotiate for a reduction, seek a first-offender dismissal, or take your case to trial to fight for a not-guilty verdict.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court for these charges?
Obstruction and resisting arrest trials start in Chesapeake General District Court (GDC). If convicted, you have an automatic right to appeal for a new jury trial in Chesapeake Circuit Court.
Related Pages: For other legal issues, see our Virginia Criminal Defense Lawyer hub. For help in nearby areas, consider a criminal defense lawyer in Henrico County or a criminal defense lawyer in Chesterfield County. For different charges in Chesapeake, see a DUI lawyer in Chesapeake or a divorce lawyer in Chesapeake.
Page last verified and updated: April 2026. Laws and procedures change. Contact Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437-7747 for the most current legal guidance regarding your obstruction of justice or resisting arrest charge.