When there is an auto accident in Virginia, it is natural for a person to be fearful. In the immediate aftermath, they might think they are going to be in trouble and worry about their future. This is common in young or new drivers, but it can happen to anyone. A...
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Criminal defense
Can a DUI breath test be questioned based on tester credentials?
In Virginia, people who are subjected to a traffic stop either when they are on the road or as part of a roadside checkpoint to see if they are under the influence will understand the concept of a breathalyzer test. The driver will be asked to blow into the machine...
When is a DUI a felony in Virginia?
A DUI conviction in Virginia comes with many penalties including fines, an ignition interlock requirement and potential jail time. You will also have a criminal record and face damage to your career or reputation. Depending on what you do for a living, you could even...
Child abuse investigations transferred to local prosecutor
A decision by the Virginia Attorney General may delay investigations into allegations of sexual abuse and misconduct at Cumberland Hospital for Children and Adolescents. Stating its office assumed jurisdiction owing to a personal conflict with the former attorney in...
Arguing the use of self-defense under Virginia law
A verbal altercation can turn physical in the blink of an eye. And when someone ends up hurt as a result of a scuffle, allegations of criminal wrongdoing can fly. If you’re on the receiving end of those accusations, then you face the possibility of being hit with...
What are the three primary types of drug crimes in Virginia?
You may have dabbled in drugs at a party with friends or while relaxing alone at home, thinking there is not much harm in trying something new or unwinding after a long day. Still, the possession, distribution and manufacturing of controlled substances in Virginia are...
How do I get my charges dropped?
The entertainment industry loves to repeat the idea of reported victims having the ability to drop charges. Seemingly, it is the victim that holds all the cards in a criminal justice proceeding, where they can unilaterally decide whether someone is prosecuted for...
Understanding field sobriety tests
If you are facing a DUI charge, field sobriety tests are one type of evidence that may be used against you. Field sobriety tests consist of certain actions that are designed to allow police officers to evaluate a driver’s physical and mental conditions in order to...
Under proposal, those with 4 ounces of marijuana may be arrested
The marijuana laws in Virginia and across the United States have been changing rapidly. Increasingly, states are allowing people to have marijuana within certain limits and for personal or medicinal use. However, the rules are still in flux and changes can happen...
Juvenile driver charged with manslaughter in 3-car accident
Inexperienced drivers often do not realize how excess speed reduces their ability to control their vehicle. A 16-year-old driver was recently charged with involuntary manslaughter for his role in a three- car collision that killed a 62-year-old woman. A review of the...
