In theory, all adults face the same consequences for the same criminal offenses. Although there is some discretion regarding the amount of jail time, length of probation or amount of money someone pays in fines after a conviction, the law sets clear maximum and...
Fairfax Criminal Defense Law Blog
Living recklessly: What constitutes reckless driving?
Most people have been there: You get stuck behind a semi that is going 10 mph slower than everyone else and have to try to figure out how to get around it. Seeing an opportunity, you nip around speedily, quickly passing by the truck well above the speed limit. At the...
Do you need expert witnesses for your DUI case?
If prosecutors have charged you with driving under the influence of alcohol, you may worry about the many potentially serious consequences you may face upon conviction. After all, in Virginia, first-time DUI penalties range from license suspension to incarceration. ...
When to challenge a traffic ticket
The fact is that most people are going to get a traffic ticket at some point in their lives, regardless of whether they deserve it or not. But when is it worth challenging the ticket in court? For example, if you believe you're innocent but it will cost you way more...
Shoplifting and larceny rules
The term shoplifting refers to when an individual in Virginia willfully conceals or takes possession of goods without paying for them. This offense includes any attempts to alter a price tag on a piece of merchandise or assisting another person who unlawfully removes...
3 reasons not to trust a DUI breath test
If an officer suspects you may be driving with a blood alcohol concentration over Virginia’s 0.08% limit, he or she may ask you to take a breath test. Refusing to take the test may subject you to a variety of consequences, including the possible suspension of your...
Man sentenced in drug case
Many drug possession cases in Virginia involve misdemeanor offenses by people who simply made a one-time mistake. However, some cases involve repeat offenders who continue to break the law after their first case was resolved. Possession and trafficking accusations For...
The factors that influence DUI sentence enhancement
A DUI sentence enhancement can increase the already stiff penalties for a DUI conviction. All 50 states, including Virginia, have DUI laws with provisions that allow for additional punishment through enhanced sentencing. These DUI sentence enhancements may include...
Refusing a Breathalyzer could result in negative consequences
If an officer asks you to submit to a Breathalyzer test during a traffic stop, you have the right to decline that request. However, because of implied consent laws in Virginia and most other states, you could have your license suspended for doing so. Furthermore,...
Understanding a first-offense DUI in Virginia
If you are facing a DUI charge in Virginia, you probably feel frightened and overwhelmed. Not knowing what to expect as a first-time offender may make the whole situation that much more scary. Familiarizing yourself with your legal options and the applicable Virginia...