Author Archives: Jay Butchko
The First-Time Offender Program for Virginia Drug Crimes
Virginia generally employs harsh penalties for drug crimes, including possession and distribution of controlled substances. Though in certain cases, first-time offenders can take advantage of a special program, rather than facing misdemeanor or felony charges. Instead of entering a guilty plea, the Virginia courts are allowed to place first-time drug offenders directly on probation… Read More »
Is it a Crime to Refuse a DUI Test in Virginia?
Across the Commonwealth of Virginia, law enforcement officers have the authority to execute traffic stops for violations ranging from speeding to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. Concerning DUI offenses, specifically, law enforcement officers are responsible for administering official tests to determine whether a driver is intoxicated. When a law enforcement… Read More »
What Should I Do After a Car Accident?
By H. Robert Showers, Esq. and J. Caleb Jones, Esq. In the first five minutes after a car accident, each driver will make several decisions that will either cripple or bolster their ability to bring a successful auto accident claim. It is crucial as a driver to know and understand what you should and… Read More »
Family Abuse Under Virginia Law
Family abuse is a legal term in Virginia for criminal acts involving family members or similar personal associates. Commonly referred to as domestic violence, family abuse occurs when a person abuses or threatens his or her own family members. Unlike other crimes, family abuse centers on the relationship between the perpetrator and victim. As… Read More »
Reckless Driving Charges Filed After Virginia School Bus Accident
A Virginia school bus driver faces criminal charges for reckless driving after causing a multi-vehicle crash, according to an article by CBS affiliate WTKR. This automotive accident occurred in Chesterfield County on Tuesday, May 28th just before 2 p.m. At that point, the school bus driver was approaching the intersection of Iron Bridge and… Read More »
How Does Virginia Punish Distributing or Advertising Illegal Drugs to Minors?
Although the Commonwealth of Virginia treats all drug crimes with the utmost seriousness, there are special considerations in place for distributing or advertising illegal drugs to minor children. In this context, the term minor children applies to kids under the age of 18 years old. Distributing Illegal Drugs to Minor Children Code of Virginia… Read More »
Suspected DUI Kills One Person & Maims Another in Virginia
A Virginia woman faces criminal charges for driving under the influence (DUI) and involuntary manslaughter after allegedly causing a fatal car crash, according to an article by WAVY. This auto accident occurred in Chesapeake on Interstate 264 at approximately 3 a.m. on June 1st. That is when the Virginia woman apparently lost control of… Read More »
Resolving Conflicts Before They Start: Court Enforcement of Church Bylaws
By William R. Thetford, Esq. and H. Robert Showers, Esq. In some ways, a successful business, nonprofit, or church share many similarities. All involve governing structures outlining the chain of command and governing documents outlining the specifics as to how the business/church/nonprofit will be operated, etc. In other ways, they are far different, specifically… Read More »
What Constitutes Illegal Gambling in Virginia?
From March Madness brackets to back-alley dice games or online poker, there seem to be many examples of gambling in life these days. Outside of certain exceptions — such as licensed horse racing, private residences, and the state lottery — however, gambling remains largely illegal across the Commonwealth of Virginia. As a result, it… Read More »
Virginia Reckless Driving Laws Against Racing
Throughout Virginia, it is illegal to engage in reckless driving or similar conduct on state highways and roadways. In order to protect drivers on those roads, Virginia has many different laws reckless driving. One particularly dangerous version of reckless driving is referred to as racing. What Qualifies as Racing in Virginia? The definition of… Read More »