Author Archives: Jay Butchko

Virginia Man Faces Charges for Drug Crimes & Weapon Offense
Local and state authorities arrested a 34-year-old man from Martinsville, Virginia, for two drug crimes and a weapon offense, reported the Martinsville Bulletin. On Wednesday, January 30th, the Henry County Sheriff’s Office and the Virginia State Police searched the man’s home for illegal drugs and firearms. The search turned up a firearm and large… Read More »

Admissible Evidence for DUI Charges in Virginia
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, it is illegal to drive under the influence (DUI) of alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. If a person is impaired by any of these substances — and, thus, incapable of driving safely — they are guilty of DUI under Virginia law. Moreover, a DUI conviction will result… Read More »

How Does Virginia Deal With Domestic Violence?
Domestic violence is a broad term that encompasses many different types of violent crimes perpetrated against a family or household member. Referred to legally as family abuse under Virginia state law, domestic violence is different from many other criminal offenses. This is because domestic violence and family abuse require a specific and close relationship… Read More »

Virginia Truck Driver Faces Reckless Driving Charges After Crashing into Church
A 65-year-old truck driver faces criminal charges for reckless driving after smashing his tractor-trailer into a church in Pittsylvania County, reported VirginiaFirst.com. This truck accident occurred at approximately 10:40 p.m. on Tuesday, January 22nd. At that time and date, the truck driver was headed north on Route 29 in Pittsylvania County. After veering off… Read More »

Virginia State Laws Against Illegal Drug Dealing
The term illegal drug dealer tends to have a specific characterization in popular culture. The Hollywood depiction of drug dealers committing drug crimes traditionally revolves around violence, opulence, and rooms full of dirty cash. While movies and TV shows focus on these kingpins of the illegal drug trade, the legal definition of drug dealing… Read More »

Underage Driver Faces DUI & Involuntary Manslaughter Charges in Virginia
In the aftermath of a fatal accident, Virginia police officers arrested a 20-year-old man from Unionville for driving under the influence (DUI) and involuntary manslaughter, reported ABC affiliate WHSV. The car accident in question occurred at approximately 2 a.m. on Sunday, December 23rd. The Unionville man was traveling south on Constitution Highway when he… Read More »

Unlawful Discrimination Under the Virginia Human Rights Act
In order to preserve public health and safety as well as safeguard general welfare, the Virginia Human Rights Act prohibits unlawful discrimination practices. Mirroring U.S. laws at the federal level, the Commonwealth of Virginia prohibits discrimination on the basis of membership in a protected class. What is the Purpose of the Virginia Human Rights… Read More »

5 More Ways a Driver Can Face Reckless Driving Charges in Virginia
Recently, Simms Showers explored several different types of reckless driving under Virginia law in its article entitled 4 Ways a Driver Can Face Reckless Driving Charges in Virginia. Taken in conjunction with this piece, readers can gain a detailed understanding of the many types of reckless driving in Virginia. Returning to the topic at… Read More »

How Does Virginia Classify Illegal Drugs?
Virginia laws against and penalties for drug crimes can vary based on the type of drug in question. Referred to legally as controlled substances, illegal drugs are divided into different schedules in Virginia. Each schedule has a specific purpose as well as a list of included substances. Although there are six schedules, most controlled… Read More »

3 Variations of DUI Offenses Under Virginia Law
In order to protect the public interest and preserve roadway safety, the Commonwealth of Virginia prohibits any person from driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. Virginia casts a wide net with respect to DUI, making it illegal to operate any motor vehicle, engine, or train while impaired and incapable of driving… Read More »