Recent Blog Posts
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,… 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 »
What are the Laws Against & Penalties for Drug Paraphernalia in Virginia?
In addition to other drug crimes in Virginia, it is unlawful to possess, sell, or advertise for any type of tools or equipment associated with illegal drugs. Legally referred to as drug paraphernalia under Virginia law, these tools and equipment help the user prepare and consume illegal drugs. As a result, Virginia treats drug… Read More »
Virginia Judge Declares Portsmouth Police Officer Not Guilty of DUI
Despite registering a chemical test well above the legal limit for alcohol, a Portsmouth police officer received a not guilty verdict for driving under the influence (DUI), according to an article by WAVY. This incident dates back to September 16th. On that day, the police officer was off-duty and driving down Victory Boulevard in… Read More »
What are the Different Types of Protection Orders in Virginia?
In order to protect victims of domestic violence and similar family abuse, Virginia law provides for three different types of protection orders. These orders help protect victims from future abuse in a number of ways, including legal prohibition of future contact and similar measures. There are generally three types of protection orders under Virginia… Read More »
Evaluating 4 Different Penalties for Reckless Driving in Virginia
From a general standpoint, reckless driving in Virginia refers to any conduct on state roadways that endangers other people or property. From a specific standpoint, reckless driving can occur when a person drives too fast, races with other vehicles, drives with an obstructed view, or engages in similarly dangerous driving behavior. In order to… Read More »
Why & How Does Virginia Regulate Ephedrine?
Despite many legal applications, ephedrine is a controlled substance in Virginia due to its role in the creation of methamphetamine. Traditionally, ephedrine is used as a decongestant in cough-and-cold medicine as well as a stimulant in fitness supplements. But in recent times, ephedrine became a key ingredient in the chemical production of methamphetamine. Given… Read More »
Virginia Penalties for Repeat DUI Offenders
Whenever a person drives under the influence (DUI) in Virginia or elsewhere, that drunk driver poses a severe risk to the health and safety of others. Recognizing this reality, Virginia imposes strict penalties for DUI offenses. Moreover, these penalties escalate sharply for any person who commits multiple DUI crimes. Jail Time & Fines As… Read More »
Exploration of Various Animal Crimes in Virginia
The Commonwealth of Virginia recognizes the need to protect animal safety. Accordingly, there are many laws against and penalties for animal mistreatment across Virginia. To understand the breadth of these offenses, the following sections will explore various types of animal crimes in Virginia. Class 1 Misdemeanor Animal Crimes Code of Virginia Section 18.2-403.1 covers… Read More »