Category Archives: Criminal Defense
Domestic Violence in Criminal and Civil Court
Most Americans have a very complex view of domestic violence, mostly depending on their gender and ethnicity. The method of communication is important as well. Civil and criminal domestic violence laws, however, apply equally to everyone. Police officers usually aren’t too concerned about disputes they see as civil matters. Domestic violence is an exception…. Read More »
Community Center Worker Faces Sex Crime Charges
Fairfax County officials arrested a 23-year-old woman who allegedly had an “illicit relationship” with a teenager who attended the center. The investigation began in early April 2024 after other center employees said they noticed an inappropriate relationship between the man and the teenager. Police arrested the man on April 20 on four counts of… Read More »
If Drugs Were in the Car, Am I Guilty of Possession?
Not necessarily. Proximity is the major element in a Section 18.2-250 or related matter. However, it’s only one of three elements of possession. The other two are outlined below. The state must establish all three elements beyond any reasonable doubt. So, essentially, prosecutors must amass an overwhelming amount of evidence on each point. Two… Read More »
What Happens After I Plead Guilty to a DUI?
For one thing, after you plead guilty to a DUI, the bills keep coming. In most cases, these individuals must obtain high-risk SR-22 insurance and keep it for at least three years. SR-22 insurance is usually at least three times higher than other forms of auto insurance. So, if your auto insurance is already… Read More »
Lawmakers Tout Success of Operation Ceasefire
Attorney General Jason Miyares says the Commonwealth’s lower crime rate is due, in large part, to heightened enforcement efforts like Operation Ceasefire. “Roughly 3 to 5 percent of felons are committing over 50 percent of the violent crime. So, if you want to bring down crime, you have to go to those violent, repeat… Read More »
Top Five Non-Moving Traffic Violations in Virginia
The Virginia traffic code mostly penalizes moving violations, like speeding and turning illegally. These traffic offenses usually have large fines and significant points. Non-moving violations, like the ones listed below, are usually fix-it tickets. Generally, the judge dismisses the case if the driver resolves the issue before the court date or before a court-ordered… Read More »
What to Expect in a Drug Trafficking Case
At the end of a case, expect a plea bargain. Only about 2 percent of drug trafficking cases and other criminal cases go to trial. A plea bargain is a process, not a result. During this process, a skilled attorney, acting as your advocate, will strategically chip away at the state’s case until prosecutors… Read More »
Larceny and Theft: A Complete Guide
Knowingly receiving stolen property, larceny (taking property), and theft (taking anything, such as keeping a rental car past the due date), are basically the same offense in Virginia. These infractions are usually misdemeanors, although they could be felonies, mostly depending on the value of the goods or services. A few other factors, such as… Read More »
Sentencing Options in Juvenile Cases
One of the primary goals of a juvenile sentence is to decrease the alarmingly-high recidivism rate. About 80 percent of convicted juvenile offenders are rearrested within three years. The much-criticized revolving door justice system is hard on everyone, including the state, offenders, their victims, and their families. Most juvenile defendants agree to plead guilty,… Read More »
Virginia’s Gun Possession Laws: What You Should Know
Political winds often change direction suddenly and unpredictably, but a Leesburg criminal defense lawyer is consistent and predictable. Attorneys stand up for your right to keep and bear arms in court. Additionally, lawyers give you solid advice throughout the criminal law process, so you are never in the dark. Gun Permits in Virginia For… Read More »
