The use of the internet to perpetrate various kinds of fraud schemes is hardly a novelty. Some fraud schemes now originate in and are operated from foreign countries. The United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York just announced the arrests of six...
Criminal defense
What does it mean when the federal government enforces drug laws?
Both the state and federal government regulates the usage, possession, distribution and manufacturing of drugs. However, despite the overlap found between federal and state laws, there are some notable differences. State and local law enforcement generally focus on...
Should you have a public defender represent you?
Criminal charges can put your nerves on end, and for good reason. The charges that you’re facing could threaten you with jail or prison time, financially ruinous fines, and damage to your reputation that can affect nearly every aspect of your life. With that in mind,...
Woman charged with DUI and other charges following four-car crash
It is known that getting behind the wheel while under the influence of alcohol is dangerous and could lead to criminal consequences in Virginia and elsewhere. Nonetheless, motorists still drive after consuming alcohol. Such an act could not only lead to a serious...
Per se and implied consent laws in Virginia
Getting pulled over for driving while under the influence (DUI) is a painful experience, and many will try to fight it by refusing to take a breath or blood test or contesting the results of those tests. Virginia DUI laws carry stiff penalties, even for first...
New law allows judge or jury sentencing in criminal cases
Virginia Governor Ralph Northam recently signed into law a bill giving criminal defendants convicted at jury trials the choice between being sentenced by a judge or the jury that convicted them. Arguments for and against jury sentencing Proponents of the new reform...
Deadly shooting at Martinsville party
Alcohol and large groups of people seldom have positive outcomes. Alcohol tends to take our social filter away, and as alcohol levels rise, often so do tempers. This, in turn, can lead to fights and sometimes, shootings. This is, unfortunately, the alleged case at a...
Don’t overlook the importance of witness credibility
Regardless of the criminal charges you’re facing, there’s a lot riding on your criminal defense. An inadequate one can leave you at risk of facing severe penalties that might include prison time, fines, and a criminal record that can have a profound impact on your...
How police officers conduct sobriety tests at DUI stops
You shouldn’t plan on having to pull over on the side of the road and run through a series of tests to prove you aren’t under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Rather, your best bet is simply planning a sober ride. However, if you ever do find yourself at a DUI stop,...
Potential penalties for driving without a license
It is illegal to operate a motor vehicle without a license in Virginia or any other state. However, the law generally differentiates between those who don't have a valid license and those who aren't able to produce their licenses when asked to present them. In most...

