Harrisonburg Virginia Legal Blog
Virginia ranks low in DUI statistics, but it is still problematic
Statistics can be useful in understanding the widespread problem of drunk driving. In Virginia, recent rankings showed where the Commonwealth ranks nationally for DUI. Understanding these numbers could factor in with the defense. In the DUI statistical assessment,...
Distinctions between actual and constructive drug possession
Drug possession is a serious criminal offense in the Commonwealth of Virginia. A number of factors can influence the possible sanctions that a person can face for their alleged drug crime, including but not limited to the type of drug allegedly involved and the...
Coping with a divorce while at work
When someone living in Virginia is going through a personal trauma, it can be hard to so much as get out of bed to drag oneself into work. Though it is acceptable, and probably best, to take some personal time off when times are tough, individuals eventually need to...
The impact of false statements in a criminal case
False statements are always problematic in any criminal investigation or during a criminal proceeding in Virginia, whether it is a federal or state matter. Inaccurate information can neither be used to prosecute someone, nor can suspects lie to law enforcement...
A look at Virginia’s annual crime rate
The Virginia court system is serious about combating crime, and the recent 2019 report concerning the state crime rate could mean that local court policies could become more intensified. While there were decreased numbers in certain categories, the number of homicides...
Virginia makes changes to its traffic laws
On July 1, two new traffic laws are scheduled to go into effect in Virginia. The first law allows authorities to charge a person with reckless driving if his or her vehicle is traveling 85 miles per hour or faster on a highway. The current law allows a police officer...
Man sentenced on heroin-related charges
On June 4, a Virginia man was sentenced to almost four years in prison for his role in heroin distribution in the area. According to law enforcement, the man was part of a Baltimore-based heroin ring. Prosecutors say that, every other day, the man purchased heroin...
Pharmacist pleads guilty to filling false prescriptions
A pharmacist has admitted to filling prescriptions for controlled substances and then consuming the drugs himself. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Virginia announced in a June 2 press release that the 34-year-old Tennessee man appeared before a...
Keys to successful joint custody
When you have joint custody in Virginia, being able to work with your ex harmoniously is a must. Otherwise, the relationship can be mired in hostility and litigation. However, through making rules for yourself and sticking to them, you can make joint custody smoother...
Defendants should know the appeals process
Someone who has been convicted of a crime in Virginia has the right to appeal their conviction. However, there may be limits to their rights of appeal. Defendants can appeal a conviction once in each court. This means that if their first appeal is not successful, they...
