Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Labor Day Weekend Leads to Increased Reckless Driving in Virginia
Over the course of Labor Day weekend this year, counties across Virginia experienced a substantial increase in reckless driving and driving under the influence, reported ABC affiliate WVEC. Additionally, the number of fatal automotive accidents during the holiday weekend reached a three-year high. The Virginia State Police reported 12 deaths over the course of… Read More »
What is an Ignition Interlock System in Virginia?
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs is a dangerous and often deadly practice. Even though Virginia employs strict laws and harsh penalties against such behaviors, drunk drivers continue to cause injuries, deaths and property damage every year. In order to reduce the potential harm from repeat offenders, Virginia requires certain criminal… Read More »
Possession of Marijuana in Virginia
Even though marijuana is now legal in many other states, possession remains illegal in the Commonwealth of Virginia. That being said, Virginia does employ a separate classification for marijuana, including exceptions for medical use and law enforcement purposes. The penalty structure for marijuana possession is relatively lax, at least as compared to other drug… Read More »
Virginia Teenager Charged with Reckless Driving
A 17-year-old teenager faces reckless driving charges after causing a fatal car accident in Bristow, Virginia, reported WTOP. The accident in question occurred on July 24th at approximately 7:30 p.m near the intersection of Rollins Ford Road and Estate Manor Drive. At that time and place, the teenager was traveling in the southbound lane… Read More »
Dangerous Dog Bites and Attacks in Virginia
Even though dogs are often referred to as man’s best friend, dog bites and attacks can have vicious repercussions. Once a canine or canine crossbreed engages in any such aggressive behavior in Virginia, dangerous dog laws protect people from harm or injury. The owner of a dangerous dog has many requirements under the law… Read More »
Analysis of 6 Alcohol-Related Laws in Virginia
While driving under the influence (DUI) charges may be common, they are certainly nothing to face without the help of a skilled attorney. And, of course, more than one type of DUI charge exists in Virginia; in fact, the following outlines six common DUI and alcohol-related laws enforced in the state. Open Containers Under… Read More »
Evaluating Heroin Crimes in Virginia
The subject for discussion today involves an exploration of heroin crimes in Virginia. Heroin is a controlled substance in Virginia, regulated by a number of rules and regulations. Overall, anyone charged with possession or any other crime relating to heroin should reach out to an attorney in the area for help. Classification of Heroin… Read More »
5 Variations of Reckless Driving under Virginia Law
In order to maximize safety on state roads and highways, Virginia law makes it unlawful to engage in careless or reckless driving. Virginia’s overarching definition of reckless driving includes any driving conduct that could result in harm to a person or damage to property. In addition to the general definition, Virginia law also addresses… Read More »
5 Key Facets of the Legal Process for Federal Crimes
Unlike criminal conduct at the state level, which varies from state to state, federal crimes have a similar process across the United States. The following sections will provide an overview of five key facets of the legal process for federal crimes. Grand Jury In most federal criminal cases, a grand jury convenes to review… Read More »
Collecting Blood Samples for DUI Offenses in Virginia
When a person is arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) in Virginia, the authorities will collect a blood sample to determine the level of alcohol or drugs in that person’s bloodstream. If the blood sample test reveals the presence of alcohol or drugs, then that person may be legally intoxicated and subject to… Read More »