Federal perjury under 18 U.S.C. § 1621 involves making material false statements under oath and carries up to 5 years in federal prison per count. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in James City County, Virginia, serving clients at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Perjury Lawyer James City County, Virginia
Federal perjury, defined under 18 U.S.C. § 1621, prohibits knowingly making a false material statement under oath in any proceeding before a competent tribunal, officer, or person. The statute requires that the false statement be material — meaning it could influence the outcome of the proceeding. A conviction carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison per count. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
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, see 18 U.S.C. § 1621 (Cornell LII — official site). For federal sentencing guidelines, see U.S. Sentencing Guidelines (USSC.gov — official site).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue perjury charges with aggressive tactics, leveraging the “rocket docket” reputation for swift case processing.
We have observed that materiality is often the most contested element, and early motion practice can narrow or dismiss charges.
- Do not speak to investigators without your attorney present.
- Preserve all documents and communications that may show the truth of your statements.
- Contact a federal criminal defense lawyer immediately to protect your rights.
- Review the indictment with your attorney to identify weaknesses in the government’s case.
- Consider whether recantation under 18 U.S.C. § 1623(d) may apply if you have corrected your testimony.
- Prepare for a potential trial or plea negotiation based on the strength of the evidence.
In James City County, federal perjury under 18 U.S.C. § 1621 carries a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison per count, with no parole in the federal system.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Perjury (18 U.S.C. § 1621) | Federal Felony | Up to 5 years per count | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Loss of professional licenses, deportation for non-citizens, supervised release |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., ‘Advocacy Without Borders,’ brings 120+ years combined legal experience, 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, and a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. Mr. Sris personally amended Va. Code § 20-107.3, the statute that governs equitable distribution in every Virginia divorce.
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 James City County, with 5 total documented case results across all practice areas (favorable outcome in all reported instances). Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 50 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Newport News Division), with access via I-64 and Route 60. Serving the communities of Williamsburg, Norge, Toano, and Lightfoot. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
Phone: (804) 201-9009 | Toll-Free: (888) 437-7747
By appointment only.
Frequently Asked Questions About Perjury Charges in James City County
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in James City County, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in James City 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 heard at Williamsburg/James City County GDC (5201 Monticello Ave, Suite 4, Williamsburg, VA 23188).
Can criminal charges be expunged in James City County, Virginia?
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 James City County Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in James City County, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in James City County. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Williamsburg/James City County GDC.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in James City County, Virginia?
Yes. Criminal charges carry possible jail time, fines, and a permanent record that affects employment, housing, professional licenses, and immigration status. Even a misdemeanor at James City County General District Court (misdemeanor) and James City County Circuit Court (felony) has serious long-term consequences.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in James City County?
James City County General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. James City 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.
What is the difference between state and federal charges?
Federal charges are prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney with generally harsher penalties and no parole. An experienced federal defense attorney is critical.
What is federal criminal court and how is it different in VA?
Federal criminal cases in VA are prosecuted by U.S. Attorneys in U.S. District Court and carry harsher sentencing guidelines than state charges. Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. handles federal defense — (888) 437-7747.
How do federal sentencing guidelines work in James City County, Virginia?
Federal sentencing at U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia follows the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines — a points-based calculation using offense level and criminal history category. While advisory since Booker (2005), guidelines strongly influence sentencing.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against perjury charges?
Defense strategies for perjury in Virginia may include challenging evidence, examining procedural compliance, negotiating with prosecutors, and presenting mitigating factors. An experienced attorney 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.
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Last updated: 2026-04-30