Retaliating against a witness under 18 U.S.C. § 1513 is a federal felony carrying up to 20 years in prison; Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has extensive criminal defense experience in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and provides strategic representation at the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Retaliating Against a Witness Lawyer in Virginia Beach, Virginia
Retaliating against a witness is a federal offense under 18 U.S.C. § 1513. This statute prohibits knowingly engaging in conduct that causes or threatens to cause bodily injury to a person, or damages the tangible property of a person, with the intent to retaliate against any person for providing information to a law enforcement officer or for attending or testifying in an official proceeding. The offense is classified as a felony under federal law. Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., Advocacy Without Borders, brings 120+ years combined legal experience.
Last verified: April 2026 | U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia | 18 U.S.C. § 1513 (Cornell LII)
For official statutory text, see 18 U.S.C. § 1513 (Cornell LII) and U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia (justice.gov).
In the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia, prosecutors routinely pursue retaliating against a witness charges with significant resources. We have observed that early intervention is critical to preserving your rights.
- Do not discuss the case with anyone except your lawyer.
- Preserve all relevant documents and communications.
- Contact a federal criminal lawyer immediately.
- Attend all scheduled court hearings.
- Follow your lawyer’s advice regarding plea negotiations and trial strategy.
- Do not attempt to contact the witness or any party involved.
In Virginia Beach, retaliating against a witness under 18 U.S.C. § 1513 carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
| Offense | Classification | Incarceration | Fine | License Impact | Additional Consequences |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Retaliating Against a Witness (18 U.S.C. § 1513) | Felony | Up to 20 years | Up to $250,000 | N/A (federal) | Supervised release, no parole, loss of federal benefits |
Results may vary.
Founded in 1997 by Mr. Sris, former prosecutor — Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. 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%. Advocacy Without Borders means we provide dedicated representation to clients facing serious federal charges.
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 4,739+ documented firm-wide results across VA, MD, DC, NY and NJ, with a favorable-outcome rate above 93%. In Virginia Beach, the firm has handled federal criminal cases with a focus on achieving favorable outcomes for clients.
Results may vary.
Our location in Richmond is approximately 90 miles from the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia (Norfolk Division), with access via I-64 and I-264. Serving as a Retaliating Against a Witness lawyer near Virginia Beach, we provide representation for clients in Virginia Beach, Sandbridge, and Oceana. 24/7 phone consultations — (888) 437-7747 — meetings by appointment only.
Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. — Richmond Location
7400 Beaufont Springs Drive, Suite 300, Room 395, Richmond, VA 23225
(888) 437-7747
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the penalty for a misdemeanor in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A Class 1 misdemeanor in Virginia Beach 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 Virginia Beach General District Court (2425 Nimmo Parkway, Bldg 10B, Virginia Beach, VA 23456).
Can criminal charges be expunged in Virginia Beach, 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 Virginia Beach Circuit Court. First-offense marijuana possession may qualify through deferred disposition.
How does bail work in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
A magistrate sets bond after arrest. Personal recognizance (no payment) is common for first-offense misdemeanors in Virginia Beach. Secured bond (bail bondsman charges ~10%) is typical for felonies. Bond can be appealed to Virginia Beach General District Court.
Do I need a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach (City), 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 Virginia Beach General District Court has serious long-term consequences. Under § 19.2-295.1, penalties can include Class 1 misdemeanor: up to 12 months jail, up to $2,500 fine.
What is the difference between GDC and Circuit Court in Virginia Beach?
Virginia Beach General District Court handles misdemeanor trials and felony preliminary hearings. Virginia Beach 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.
How does a Virginia lawyer defend against retaliating against a witness charges?
Defense strategies for retaliating against a witness 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. § 1513 to build the strongest possible defense.
What should I do if I am facing retaliating against a witness charges in Virginia?
If facing retaliating against a witness 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.
For more information, visit our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Virginia hub page. You may also find our Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Loudoun County and Conspiracy to Commit an Offense lawyer Fairfax County pages useful. Additionally, explore Trespassing Lawyer Virginia Beach and Public Intoxication Lawyer Virginia Beach for related legal services.
Last updated: 2026-04-30