Author Archives: Jay Butchko
What Happens After a DUI Crash?
Depending on the severity of the DUI crash, the state could file felony charges. Fines eventually get paid, probation terms eventually end, and other direct consequences fade away. But the indirect consequences of a criminal conviction, especially a DUI crash, may continue for years or decades. Additionally, these wrecks usually have consequences in civil… Read More »
Weapons Possession: A Brief Overview
In 2007, Virginia had some of the most permissive weapons possession laws in the country. Then, a deranged student at Virginia Tech shot and killed twenty-three people. Largely in response to this tragedy, lawmakers began cracking down on illegal gun possession. Today, in 2025, Virginia has some of the most restrictive weapons possession laws… Read More »
Drug Crime Enhancements in Virginia
Prosecutors in Northern Virginia are very aggressive. They usually bring the most serious charges the facts could possibly support. So, if there’s any possibility a drug crime enhancement may apply, the charging documents almost always reflect that possibility. Usually, prosecutors bring aggressive charges to trigger a shock and awe effect. This technique often works…. Read More »
What is Aggressive Driving in Virginia?
In a nutshell, an Article 7, Section 46 citation is basically a traffic ticket on steroids. Unlike a standard traffic ticket, an aggressive driving citation is a criminal matter. So, these citations have additional direct consequences, such as court supervision, and indirect consequences, such as a stain on a permanent record. Additionally, aggressive driving… Read More »
Dozens Arrested During Anti-Crime Sweep
In under two days, police officers arrested more than fifty individuals during Spring Break 2025 in Virginia Beach. Most of the charges were related to firearms violations, police said, but they also responded to several shots-fired and shooting-related offenses. Police Chief Paul Neudigate said, “We are a community that values safety, hospitality, and respect… Read More »
What are DWI Traffic Stops?
DWI traffic stops usually don’t start as DWI traffic stops. Instead, in most cases, a police officer pulls over a motorist for a traffic violation and then conducts a DWI investigation. The officer must have reasonable suspicion for both the stop and the investigation. Basically, reasonable suspicion is an evidence-based hunch of criminal activity…. Read More »
What Could Throw Off the Results of a Breathalyzer?
As outlined below, many deficiencies could throw off the results of a Breathalyzer. This gadget is simply an updated version of the 1920s Drunk-O-Meter. The same flaws that plagued this device, which was invented more than a century ago, plague modern Breathalyzers. Additionally, with all their bells and whistles, modern Breathalyzers often have additional… Read More »
Preliminary Protective Order FAQs in Virginia
For alleged victims, a domestic battery case is often a temporary solution. Most Loudoun County-area law enforcement agencies place a twenty-four hour hold on domestic violence defendants. So, these people cannot make bail until they serve at least twenty-four hours behind bars. However, they’re usually free during the pretrial process and often receive probation…. Read More »
Common Non-Moving Traffic Violations in Loudoun County
Most people can’t drive more than six or eight blocks without breaking at least one traffic law. In fact, many people cannot pull out of parking lots without breaking at least one traffic law. The Virginia Code includes numerous non-moving traffic violations, some of which are examined below. Non-moving violations, like speeding and other… Read More »
Should I Plead Guilty to a Drug Case?
Yes, because in most cases, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. A favorable plea deal (a bird in the hand) is preferable to a possibly better outcome at trial, such as a complete dismissal of charges (two in the bush). Most defendants approach criminal cases the same way. Over… Read More »
