There are several reasons why a person may have their driver’s license suspended in Virginia. For example, committing certain traffic violations may lead to an accumulation of demerit points that result in your suspension. Furthermore, simply failing to pay certain...
Criminal Defense
When can the police search without a warrant?
Generally speaking, you do not have to let the police into your home without a warrant. They can certainly ask for your consent, and they often do. But you are not obligated to allow them to come in, even if they try to convince you that you are. Of course, they can...
Should you worry if stopped by the police when driving?
When the police motion at you to stop your car, your first reaction might be panic. Yet panicking is what gets many people into trouble that they could have avoided by staying calm. What does it mean when the police tell you to pull over? It means pull over, and at...
How much does car insurance increase after a drunk-driving conviction?
When you’re stopped by the police and end up under arrest for drunk driving, your thoughts may jump to wondering how you’re going to keep your license and how much this could cost you. While your priority will be to defend against the charges, a conviction is still...
How does a criminal record impact a parent’s custody rights?
How serious is a criminal conviction when you’re a parent seeking custody of your child? Very serious. Any criminal conviction on your record could impact your ability to retain custody of your child. A conviction could even result in the court depriving you of all...
Your Miranda rights: Do they have to be read to you?
If you have ever watched a police drama, you've probably heard what happens when a police officer finally arrests the suspect. Handcuffs are slapped on, and the officer begins with, "You have the right to remain silent," as they read a suspect their Miranda rights....
What’s a Section 1001 violation?
You would never go out of your way to impede a federal investigation -- but having detectives show up at your door threw you for an emotional loop. In your panic, you didn’t exactly lie about what you know -- but you weren’t entirely truthful, either. You obfuscated...
Contesting witnesses and evidence can be difficult in a trial
Contesting evidence can be a precursor to obtaining a not guilty verdict when criminal cases go to trial in Virginia. Even when criminal defense lawyers have discussed the case with the prosecutor and there is questionable evidence, the jury makes the final...
Can you record the police during a traffic stop?
If a Virginia police officer believes that you have violated state law, he or she may conduct a traffic stop. As a general rule, you have the right to capture footage of the interaction between yourself and the officer who conducts the stop. You should inform the...
What is larceny in Virginia?
Larceny is the legal term used in Virginia for what you (and most other people) might call theft. It means taking something without the owner’s permission and not intending to give it back. Virginia law splits larceny into two main categories: Petit larceny and grand...
