Obstruction of Justice lawyer Charles County, MD

Last reviewed: July 2026 Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. – Advocacy Without Borders.

Federal obstruction of justice charges carry serious consequences—mandatory minimum prison time, financial penalties, and a permanent mark on your record. If you or someone close to you faces allegations under 18 U.S.C. § 1503, § 1512, or related statutes out of Charles County, Maryland, having experienced federal defense counsel is critical. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel concentrate a substantial portion of their practice on federal criminal defense in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland. They represent clients from La Plata, Waldorf, Indian Head, White Plains, Bryans Road, Hughesville, and every community in Charles County. To request a consultation, reach Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. at (888) 437‑7747.

What Federal Obstruction of Justice Means in Charles County, Maryland

When a federal obstruction case originates in Charles County, the prosecution is not brought in a state courthouse like the District Court of MD for Charles County. Instead, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland prosecutes the matter in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, which has two divisions handling federal felony cases—the Baltimore Division at 101 West Lombard Street and the Greenbelt Division at 6500 Cherrywood Lane. Because Charles County sits within the Southern Maryland region, appearances most often occur in Greenbelt, though the specific assignment depends on the nature of the charges and judicial assignments.

Federal obstruction of justice is treated as a direct attack on the integrity of the judicial system. Under 18 U.S.C. § 1503, it is a federal crime to corruptly endeavor to influence, intimidate, or impede any grand or petit juror, court officer, or the due administration of justice. Section 1512 separately criminalizes witness tampering, including attempts to kill, threaten, or corruptly persuade a witness to withhold testimony or alter evidence. These charges are frequently investigated by the FBI, often in tandem with the IRS Criminal Investigation division or other federal law enforcement agencies. Grand jury indictments are common, and the federal sentencing guidelines strongly influence any negotiated resolution or post-trial sentence. There is no parole in the federal system; an individual convicted under these sections faces the entirety of any imposed term less good-time credit.

How Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Handle Obstruction of Justice Cases

Every federal obstruction case begins with a government investigation—often months or even years before an indictment is returned. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel intervene early to protect the rights of clients who may be targets, subjects, or witnesses. Early engagement can include communication with the investigating agency, review of the scope of any grand jury subpoena, and, where appropriate, presentation of information that may persuade the government not to seek charges.

Once an indictment is issued, the defense team analyzes the charging instrument, discovery, and the statutory elements the government must prove beyond a reasonable doubt. Because Mr. Sris is a former prosecutor, he understands how federal prosecutors build their cases and what evidentiary weaknesses they are likely to exploit. His Of Counsel bring extensive combined legal experience, including familiarity with federal pretrial procedure, motion practice, and evidentiary objections. The team examines every potential defense: whether the alleged conduct falls outside the reach of the statute, whether the evidence was obtained in violation of the Fourth Amendment, whether the government can meet its burden on the element of corrupt intent, and whether cooperation or a plea negotiation offers the most favorable path under the advisory sentencing guidelines. Throughout the process, the firm works to secure favorable outcomes—whether through a motion to dismiss, an acquittal at trial, or a sentencing presentation that mitigates the advisory range. Results may vary.

About Mr. Sris and His Of Counsel Team

Mr. Sris, Owner and Founder of Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C., began his career as a former prosecutor and has concentrated his practice on criminal defense since 1997. He is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, the District of Columbia, New Jersey, and New York. Mr. Sris’s experience includes testimony before the Virginia House Courts of Justice Committee in support of 2019 HB 635 (chief patron Del. David Bulova).

Mr. Sris’s Of Counsel team shares his commitment to rigorous federal defense. The team includes attorneys with extensive trial experience and backgrounds that inform every stage of representation—from navigating the initial appearance before a federal magistrate judge to arguing sentencing motions. Because federal court is a unique forum with distinct rules, the team invests substantial time preparing for each case, consulting with attorneys where necessary, and crafting a defense tailored to the specific grand jury investigation or prosecution at hand.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is federal obstruction of justice under 18 U.S.C. § 1503?

Federal obstruction of justice under 18 U.S.C. § 1503 applies to anyone who corruptly obstructs or impedes the due administration of justice. The statute covers a wide range of conduct, including threatening a juror, interfering with a court officer, or destroying documents relevant to a pending judicial proceeding. The government must prove that the defendant acted with a corrupt purpose and that the obstruction was directed at a specific federal proceeding. Convictions can result in up to 10 years of imprisonment—or up to 20 years if the offense involved killing or attempted killing.

How does a federal obstruction case from Charles County, Maryland proceed?

A federal obstruction case arising in Charles County begins with an investigation by a federal agency such as the FBI. If the U.S. Attorney’s Office obtains an indictment, the defendant is arraigned in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland, typically at the Greenbelt Division. Pretrial motions, discovery, and plea negotiations follow. If no resolution is reached, the case proceeds to trial. Sentencing is guided by the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines; mandatory minimums may apply if firearms or other aggravating factors are involved. The timeline varies by case complexity and court scheduling.

Can obstruction of justice charges be dismissed in federal court?

Yes, obstruction charges can be dismissed if the government’s evidence is insufficient, the indictment is defective, or the defendant’s constitutional rights were violated. A motion to dismiss might argue that the alleged conduct does not fall within the statutory prohibition, that the prosecution failed to allege essential elements, or that key evidence was obtained through an unlawful search. While dismissal is not guaranteed, an experienced federal criminal defense attorney will explore every viable basis for challenging the government’s case at the earliest possible stage.

Do I need a lawyer if I am under federal investigation for obstruction?

Yes, anyone who learns they are a target or subject of a federal obstruction investigation should retain counsel immediately. Even before an indictment, statements made to federal agents can be used against you. An attorney can communicate with investigators on your behalf, help preserve evidence that supports a defense, and advise you whether cooperation or silence best serves your interests. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel are available by telephone 24 hours a day to discuss urgent federal matters.

What are the penalties for witness tampering under 18 U.S.C. § 1512?

Witness tampering under 18 U.S.C. § 1512 is punishable by up to 20 years in prison if the defendant intended to prevent testimony or production of evidence through force, threat, or corrupt persuasion. If the tampering results in death, the maximum penalty increases to life imprisonment or the death penalty, depending on the circumstances. Federal sentencing guidelines also impose substantial enhancements for obstruction, making it critical to address the charges with a defense strategy that considers both the substantive statute and the guidelines calculus.

Why should I consider Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. for a federal obstruction case in Charles County?

Law Offices Of SRIS, P.C. has practiced federal criminal defense for decades and brings former prosecutor experience to every stage of the case. Mr. Sris and his Of Counsel appear regularly in U.S. District Court for the District of Maryland and understand the procedures, judges, and prosecutorial tactics that shape federal obstruction litigation. The firm’s Maryland location in Rockville serves Charles County and all surrounding communities. To speak with the team about your situation, call (888) 437-7747—consultations are by appointment.

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