It’s no secret that the unknown is terrifying. Nearly all of our clients come to us not knowing what the future holds for them, not knowing the procedures of the legal system, and not knowing what to do next. It’s scary. I’m here to tell you today that while life seems hectic right now, there are some things you can …
FAQ: I don’t agree with my conviction. Can my case be heard again?
Let’s say you’ve been to court for a criminal matter or traffic offense like reckless driving, but you don’t agree with the decision of the Judge. Do you have to accept that decision? The short answer is no. If, in a lower court (Juvenile and Domestic Relations Court or General District Court), the Judge makes a decision that you don’t agree with, …
Underage Possession of Alcohol in Virginia
If you, or someone you know, has been charged with underage possession of alcohol in Virginia, you should speak with an experienced attorney to discuss what can happen in court and what potential issues you are facing. Surprisingly, you can be charged with possession of alcohol even if the alcohol is only in your system, whether or not you are …
The Police Impounded My Vehicle! Can They Do That?
In Virginia, there are six main ways in which your car can be impounded. The first instance a vehicle may be impounded is if you’re arrested. If your vehicle is not legally parked, then police may impound it. Va. Code 19.2-80.1 states “in any case in which a police officer arrests the operator of a motor vehicle and there is …
I Missed my Court Date! Now What?
Maybe you overslept, got your court date confused, or you simply forgot, either way you missed your court date. What happens will likely depend on the type of case. For example, if you have a simple traffic case then the parties will likely try the case in your absence and you will be found “guilty in absentia.” The consequences could …
Polite and Cooperative (Attitude Matters at a Traffic Stop)
If you are stopped by a police officer for any reason, the second most important thing you must do is remain polite and cooperative. (The most important thing, of course, is to not start talking and incriminate yourself!) At the stop, your attitude matters A LOT! Most likely if you are stopped by the police, you are already late for …
Can you Film the Police?
In recent years Courts have issued conflicting opinions about a citizen’s right to film the police. For example, one Federal Court held in 2011 that, although not unqualified, “a citizen’s right to film government officials, including law enforcement officers, in the discharge of their duties in a public space is a basic, vital, and well-established liberty safeguarded by the First …