Traffic stops are one of the few ways the police may investigate a possible crime. For you, as a driver, a traffic stop can be stressful and confusing because you likely don’t know why the police would be stopping you. To reduce your anxiety and protect you from...
Criminal Defense
What Are the Key Responsibilities of a Criminal Defense Lawyer?
Do you ever wonder what it takes to defend someone accused of a crime? The role of a criminal defense lawyer is not only fascinating but also carries significant responsibilities. From providing legal representation in court to protecting their clients' rights, these...
When can Virginia police officers legally conduct a home search?
Items found by Virginia police officers can become evidence in a criminal case. The state can use physical items, genetic materials, fingerprints and many other types of evidence when preparing to prosecute someone. Those hoping to defend against criminal charges...
Post-event information can influence eyewitness recollections
Virginia juries usually find eyewitness testimony compelling, but researchers have discovered that our memories can be influenced by our experiences and the questions we are asked. This is because memories evolve in the mind and are shaped by personal beliefs and...
Illegally possessing prescription drugs
Virginia law has many statutes on the books related to illegal possession of prescription drugs, but understanding that legal landscape can be more confusing than with illegal narcotics. With substances like heroin, cocaine and other illicit drugs, it's very clear...
Nursing home abuse often goes unreported
Nursing home residents around the country are often reluctant to report abuse or mistreatment because they fear retaliation from caregivers. That was the worrying conclusion reached by researchers from the Long Term Care Community Coalition after conducting a survey...
Cocaine and crimes in Virginia
If you live in Virginia, there are drug laws that could result in significant consequences if you're found guilty. Cocaine is one of the drugs that can carry punishments that include fines or time in jail, depending on how the drug is used or handled. Possession If...
Pre-employment background checks
Many businesses in Virginia and around the country ask prospective employees to sign paperwork that gives them permission to conduct background checks. The companies that perform these checks verify academic credentials and employment histories, obtain credit reports...
How does civil forfeiture apply to gang activity in Virginia?
The state of Virginia classifies all gang activity as a felony. You may spend up to 10 years in prison if convicted. In addition to prison time, the police could seize and sell any property they believe you used for gang activity. Civil forfeiture Police in Virginia...
Can I be charged if my child accesses my gun?
We’ve all seen the news. A child takes a firearm to show and tell at school. Worse, a child might shoot themselves or someone else after finding a gun at home. The charge of the Virginia crime of allowing access to firearms by children is the least of your worries in...