Perjury lawyer Fairfax, VA

Last reviewed: August 2026

Accusations of perjury are among the most serious charges a defendant can face. Perjury—the act of knowingly making a false statement under oath—strikes at the very heart of the judicial system, undermining the truth-seeking function of the courts. If you or a loved one is facing allegations of lying to investigators, witnesses, or in court within Fairfax County, Virginia, understanding the gravity and the specific legal defenses available is critical. The law surrounding false statements is complex, requiring precise knowledge of both state statutes and common law precedents.

At Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., we provide dedicated criminal defense services for those accused of perjury in the Fairfax area. Our team has extensive experience defending clients against charges ranging from minor false statements to felony perjury counts. We understand that these situations are intensely stressful, and our goal is to provide clear, strategic counsel tailored to your specific circumstances. If you need experienced attorney representation for a perjury charge in Fairfax, VA, please reach out to our location by appointment only at (888) 437-7747.

What Constitutes Perjury Under Virginia Law?

Perjury is not simply telling a lie; it requires a specific set of elements that the prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. In Virginia, perjury is generally defined as knowingly making a false statement while under oath in an official proceeding. The law is designed to protect the integrity of judicial proceedings, and the penalties for conviction can be severe, often involving significant jail time and substantial fines.

The Essential Elements of a Perjury Charge

For a perjury charge to stick, the prosecution must prove three key elements:

• Oath Requirement: The false statement must have been made while the individual was legally sworn to tell the truth (e.g., testifying in court, giving sworn deposition, or answering questions under oath).
• Falsity: The statement must be demonstrably false. It cannot be merely mistaken or based on faulty memory; it must be a knowing untruth.
• Knowledge/Intent: This is the most critical element. The prosecution must prove that the defendant knew the statement was false at the time they made it. Simple mistakes or lapses in memory are generally not considered perjury.

Distinguishing Perjury from Other False Statement Charges

It is vital to understand that “false statement” is a broad category, and perjury is just one potential charge within it. Sometimes, an individual may be charged with making a false statement to police investigators, which carries different statutory requirements than lying under oath in court. Our team reviews the specific context of your alleged misconduct—whether it occurred during an interview, at a deposition, or in a courtroom setting—to ensure we mount the most accurate and effective defense strategy.

How Does the Defense Against Perjury Work?

Defending against perjury is inherently difficult because the state has the burden of proving intent. Our defense strategy focuses on dismantling the prosecution’s ability to prove that you knowingly lied. We explore several potential defenses, including:

• Lack of Intent (Mistake): Arguing that any inaccuracies were due to memory lapses, misunderstanding complex questions, or confusion, rather than a deliberate attempt to deceive.
• No Oath Taken: Challenging the procedural basis of the accusation—did the client actually take an oath in the context where the statement was allegedly made?
• Ambiguity of Question: Arguing that the question posed by the opposing counsel or investigator was vague, misleading, or impossible to answer definitively, thereby negating the element of knowing falsehood.

How Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys Handle Perjury Cases in Fairfax

Defending against a perjury accusation requires more than just legal knowledge; it demands meticulous investigation, deep procedural understanding, and the ability to maintain composure under intense cross-examination. When you entrust your case to Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., you gain access to a comprehensive defense framework. Our initial phase involves an exhaustive review of all evidence, including police reports, deposition transcripts, and any prior statements made by the prosecution’s witnesses. We do not rely on assumptions; we build our defense on verifiable facts and established legal precedent.

Our approach is highly collaborative. We work closely with you to reconstruct your timeline and understand the context of every statement. If the case involves complex jurisdictional issues or requires testimony from multiple sources, our process ensures that every piece of evidence is analyzed for potential weaknesses. Furthermore, we leverage the collective experience of the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys. These specialized practitioners bring diverse perspectives—from specific areas of criminal law to procedural nuances—allowing us to build a multi-layered defense that anticipates every line of questioning the prosecution may use. This comprehensive strategy significantly increases our chances of achieving favorable outcomes for our clients facing perjury charges in Fairfax County.

About Mr. Sris and the Firm’s Of Counsel Attorneys

The foundation of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., rests on decades of dedicated legal service. Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder, brings a wealth of experience to every case. As a former prosecutor with thorough knowledge of how criminal investigations are conducted, he possesses a unique insight into the prosecution’s playbook. His commitment to justice is matched by his dedication to defending the rights of those accused of serious crimes. Mr. Sris is admitted to practice law in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York, providing clients with access to a five-jurisdiction practice that understands multi-state legal complexities.

The strength of our firm is amplified by the collective experience of the firm’s Of Counsel attorneys. These experienced independent practitioners represent the breadth of our knowledge base, allowing us to tackle specialized criminal defense matters across various jurisdictions. Whether the issue involves complex evidentiary rules or nuanced statutory interpretations, our team ensures that you are represented by counsel with the deepest possible pool of experience. We prioritize a thorough, strategic defense, provides clients with the focused attention and rigorous legal advocacy they deserve when facing allegations like perjury.

What Are the Penalties for Perjury in Virginia?

The penalties for perjury in Virginia can be severe, depending on the nature of the false statement and whether it was committed during a felony investigation. Because perjury undermines the judicial process itself, courts treat it with extreme seriousness. Penalties can include substantial fines, probation, and significant periods of incarceration. It is crucial to understand that even if you are charged with perjury, the underlying criminal matter—the reason you were questioned—may still be active. A skilled defense attorney must address both the false statement charge and the original allegations simultaneously.

Can I Use My Fifth Amendment Rights If I Fear Perjury Charges?

Yes, absolutely. The Fifth Amendment right against self-incrimination is a cornerstone of American law. If you are questioned by law enforcement or testifying in court, you have the right to remain silent. Our attorneys are attorneys at advising clients on when and how to invoke these rights. We will guide you through the nuances of these protections, ensuring that your constitutional rights are protected at every stage of questioning, whether it is a police interview or a formal deposition.

What is the Difference Between Lying to Police and Perjury?

While both involve making false statements, the legal context is different. Lying to police investigators often falls under statutes related to obstruction of justice or making false reports. Perjury, by definition in Virginia, requires that the false statement be made while the individual is under oath in a formal proceeding (like court testimony). However, the underlying defense strategies—proving lack of intent and challenging the veracity of the questioning—often overlap significantly.

How Does Being Questioned by Investigators Affect My Case?

The initial investigation phase is often where the most damaging statements are made. Investigators may ask experienced questions or present incomplete information, which can lead to inaccurate recollections. We guide our clients through these interviews, ensuring that every question is understood and that your answers are legally protective. Our goal is to document your account accurately while simultaneously building a defense record that counters any potential future claims of falsehood.

What Happens If I Am Accused of Perjury in a Different State?

Because we practice across multiple jurisdictions, including Maryland, New York, and Washington D.C., we are familiar with the variations in false statement laws across state lines. The core concept remains the same—lying under oath is wrong—but the specific elements, required proof, and statutory penalties vary significantly. This requires a local understanding of the law where the alleged perjury occurred.

What Should I Do Immediately After Being Questioned by Police?

The most important thing you can do is to stop talking about the matter immediately and retain an attorney. Do not speak to anyone else—not friends, family, or investigators—about the details of your case without consulting us first. Any statement you make after retaining counsel could potentially be used against you. We will manage all communication with law enforcement on your behalf.

Is It Possible to Defend Against Perjury Based on Memory Issues?

Yes, memory issues are a common and effective defense strategy. If the prosecution cannot prove that you knew your statement was false at the time you made it, the charge of perjury fails. We work with forensic experts and legal strategists to build a credible narrative around potential gaps in memory or confusion regarding complex events.

What is the Role of Evidence in a Perjury Defense?

Evidence is everything. A strong defense often involves introducing evidence that contradicts the prosecution’s narrative, such as documentation, communications, or third-party testimony. We meticulously gather and analyze all available evidence to build a factual record that supports your credibility and undermines the state’s claims of deceit.

How Can I Protect Myself From Future False Accusations?

While we cannot guarantee protection from all future accusations, the trusted defense is preparation and knowledge. By understanding your rights, knowing how to interact with law enforcement, and having a trusted legal team like Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., you are significantly better prepared to navigate these high-stakes situations.

Ready to Speak With an Attorney About Your Particular Situation?

If you have been questioned by law enforcement or are facing serious allegations of making false statements in Fairfax County, VA, do not wait. The clock is always ticking when it comes to criminal charges. Please reach out to our location at (888) 437-7747 to schedule a confidential consultation with an experienced perjury lawyer. We are here to guide you through every step of the process.

Case results depend on a variety of factors unique to each case.

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