One of the unfortunate outcomes of 2020 is an increase in traffic accidents, as well as overly aggressive law enforcement efforts to address the issue. A recent news article estimated that the rate of traffic fatalities is the highest it has been in 13 years, and the...
Nearly 100 Years of Legal Service
Our firm was founded by T. Brooke Howard in 1923. We have been providing exceptional legal service for our clients.
The basics on federal drug scheduling in the U.S.
It is common knowledge that drugs like heroin and meth are dangerous and if a person in Warrenton commits a drug crime involving these substances they can expect to be penalized harshly. However, what if you have a cold and took a cough syrup with codeine? Is that a...
Discovery is an important part of criminal defense
Going against the criminal justice system can be daunting for a Virginia resident. This is why preparing an aggressive criminal defense that attacks many aspects of the prosecution’s case can be one way to protect one’s rights. The discovery process is one way for the...
DUI versus DUI ‘per se’ in Virginia
Summer fun in Virginia means beach days, barbecues and family gatherings that may have not happened for many months. Alcohol is often a part of the celebration, and most people celebrate responsibly. Yet even a responsible drinker can find themselves being pulled over...
Domestic violence convictions can haunt a person for years
Virginia residents who face a criminal charge related to domestic violence may think that their best option is to plead guilty. It could be especially tempting to plead guilty if it is a person’s first offense and the proposed plea deal is a good one. However, before...
Protective orders may be issued after a domestic violence arrest
Domestic assault and battery are serious crimes in the state of Virginia. Under the law, family abuse is defined as violent, forceful, or threatening act against a family or household member, that places them in reasonable apprehension of serious harm. A family or...
Discovery is an invaluable tool in criminal defense
Criminal charges in Virginia should be taken seriously, as a conviction has the potential to drastically change the trajectory of the accused’s life. Given the gravity of the situation, the federal court system requires that each party disclose all relevant facts and...
Do I have to allow the police to search my car?
It can be nerve wracking when the police pull you over. When they ask you a question, such as “May I search your trunk?” or “What’s in that bag?” you might be unsure of your legal obligations. Is the officer merely being polite and asking first even though they have...
Important criminal defense rights to remember
Virginia residents who are facing criminal charges are usually anxious about the situation – one in which most people never find themselves. Whether you face a drunk driving charge, a drug charge or even a serious felony charge, the potential for punishment if you are...
Federal court is different from state court
Most people who face a criminal charge in the Warrenton area will have their cases dealt with locally by the Virginia state courts. However, for some types of offenses, including many drug-related crimes and financial crimes, a person may find himself facing...
