CRIMINAL LAW & TRAFFIC/DUI MATTERS

​FELONY

Felonies are the most serious type of crime, and are punishable by prison or even death for capital offenses. A felony is categorized by class, with Class 1 as the worst, down to Class 6.

MISDEMEANORS

Misdemeanors are any lesser criminal acts, and as such the punishments are less severe. Virginia has four types of misdemeanors ranging from Class 1, the most serious, to Class 4.

JUVENILE DELINQUENCY

Crimes committed by children under the age of 18 are typically referred to as juvenile delinquency. Depending on the severity of the crime and the child’s age, it is possible to be tried as an adult.

JUVENILE CHINS PETITIONS

Child in Need of Services or Child in Need of Supervision Petitions can assist the families of children with negative behaviors. If the child is having issues in school or at home that cause detrimental side effects, the intervention of the court may help with rehabilitation.

BAIL HEARINGS

When determining whether or not a defendant will be released on bail, many factors are taken into account such as criminal history, psychical and mental condition, financial resources and more. In some cases, conditions for release may apply.

PROBATION VIOLATIONS

Probation places certain restrictions upon you by the court in exchange for reduced or avoided jail time. When these restrictions are abused, either by technical violation or a new offense, you may face serious consequences. This may include revoked probation, jail time, or fines.

​DUI / REFUSAL

If your blood alcohol content (or BAC) is higher than .08%, you are legally considered to be Under the Influence. DUI charges may also apply if you are impaired by any drugs. There is rarely any option for a blood test in lieu of a breath test, and in the case of refusal you may face additional misdemeanor charges as well as any DUI charges.

DRIVING SUSPENDED OR REVOKED

It is never advised to drive while your license is suspended or revoked, as the punishments are much more detrimental than the wait itself. Not only will you have issues with the DMV, but the courts as well. Penalties may include longer suspension, substantial fines, possible jail time or felony charges, and increased DMV scrutiny.

RECKLESS DRIVING

Unlike a traditional parking or moving violation, reckless driving carries severe punishment and can be charged as misdemeanor or felony. Driving at speeds (20) miles over the speed limit or in excess of (80) miles per hour, improper passing and failure to drive to conditions all put you at risk of having a reckless driving charge on your record for years to come.

SPEEDING