Perjury in Virginia is a serious federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1621, carrying up to 5 years in prison per false statement. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience across Virginia, including federal cases in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and the Western District of Virginia.
Perjury Lawyer Virginia
Federal perjury, defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1621, occurs when a person knowingly makes a material false statement under oath in any proceeding before a competent tribunal, officer, or person. In Virginia, state perjury is codified under Va. Code § 18.2-434, which makes it a Class 5 felony to willfully and corruptly swear falsely in any matter where an oath is required by law. The key elements include the statement being material to the proceeding, made with knowledge of its falsity, and under a lawful oath. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience to defend clients against perjury charges in Virginia.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1621 (Cornell LII)
For the full text of the federal perjury statute, visit 18 U.S.C. § 1621 (U.S. Department of Justice — official site). For Virginia state perjury law, see Va. Code § 18.2-434 (Virginia General Assembly — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue perjury charges with aggressive tactics, often relying on grand jury testimony or deposition transcripts. We have observed that the government frequently overstates the materiality of alleged false statements, creating opportunities for defense challenges.
- Do not speak to law enforcement without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents, emails, and recordings related to the alleged false statement.
- Contact a perjury lawyer Virginia immediately to review the indictment.
- Your attorney will file motions to challenge the materiality of the statement.
- Negotiate with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for a potential reduction or dismissal.
- Prepare for trial if a favorable resolution cannot be reached.
In Virginia, perjury carries severe penalties that vary depending on whether the charge is federal or state. Federal perjury under 18 U.S.C. § 1621 carries up to 5 years in prison per count, while state perjury under Va. Code § 18.2-434 is a Class 5 felony with 1 to 10 years in prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Perjury (18 U.S.C. § 1621) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years per count | Up to $250,000 | None directly, but conviction affects professional licenses | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights, and federal benefits; potential deportation for non-citizens |
| Virginia State Perjury (Va. Code § 18.2-434) | Class 5 Felony | 1 to 10 years | Up to $2,500 | None directly, but conviction affects professional licenses | Loss of voting rights, firearm rights, and potential immigration consequences |
Results may vary.
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
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia, including federal perjury cases. Firm-wide across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, we have 4,739+ documented results with a 93%+ favorable outcome rate. Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond, VA is approximately 100 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia in Alexandria, with access via I-95 and I-64. Serving as a perjury lawyer near Virginia, we represent clients across all Virginia communities, including Richmond, Fairfax, Arlington, Norfolk, and Roanoke. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C.
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395
Richmond, VA 23225
(888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perjury Charges in Virginia
What is the penalty for perjury in Virginia?
Yes. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1621, federal perjury carries up to 5 years in prison per count. In Virginia state courts, perjury is a Class 5 felony under Va. Code § 18.2-434, punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison and up to $2,500 in fines.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against perjury charges?
Defense strategies for perjury in Virginia may include challenging the materiality of the false statement, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced perjury lawyer Virginia evaluates the specific facts under 18 U.S.C. § 1621 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing perjury charges in Virginia?
If facing perjury charges in Virginia, contact a federal criminal attorney immediately. Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer. Preserve all relevant documents and evidence. The statute of limitations and court deadlines under Virginia law require prompt action.
Can a perjury charge be reduced or dismissed in Virginia?
Yes. A perjury charge in Virginia can potentially be reduced or dismissed if the prosecution cannot prove materiality, if the statement was not made under oath, or if procedural errors occurred. An experienced perjury lawyer Virginia can evaluate these defenses.
What is the difference between perjury and subornation of perjury in Virginia?
Perjury involves making a false statement under oath, while subornation of perjury involves inducing another person to commit perjury. Both are federal crimes under 18 U.S.C. § 1621 and § 1622, respectively, and carry severe penalties.
Do I need a lying under oath defense lawyer Virginia?
Yes. If you are accused of lying under oath in Virginia, you need a lying under oath defense lawyer Virginia who understands the nuances of perjury law and can protect your rights. An experienced perjury charge lawyer Virginia can help you handle the legal process.
Learn more about federal criminal defense in Virginia: Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia.
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Last verified: April 2026 | This page was last updated on 2026-04-30 to reflect current Virginia and federal perjury laws.