Exploiting vulnerable and elderly adults is a crime in Virginia. Even those who are authorized to assist vulnerable adults are potentially culpable. Documents such as a power of attorney may be a defense to some extent, but even an individual power of attorney within...
DUI stands for driving under the influence, though other states may use different initials. Drunk driving is illegal in all states and Washington D.C. because intoxication impairs judgment. While drivers in North Chesterfield, Virginia, should not drink and drive, it...
Many residents of Virginia might think of kidnapping and abduction as being the same crime. However, while they are similar, there are differences between these two offenses. If you have been arrested and charged with one of these crimes, you should know how they...
If you are arrested on criminal charges in Virginia, you might not initially know how to react. It’s a scary and overwhelming situation. You must remember that you have rights, including the Fifth Amendment right to remain silent. However, it’s fair to wonder if you...
A conviction in criminal court depends on whether the jury arrives at guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Proving or disproving the case often depends on the evidence presented. Whether in state or federal court, a prosecutor will reveal evidence that supports a guilty...
Residents of Virginia may want to learn more about the use of facial recognition in criminal proceedings and why it does not always work. There's a cautionary tale of a man in Detroit who had an arrest based on facial recognition. government studies have shown that a...
Virginia criminal code statutes define the differences between numerous illegal activities, but the public might not know the difference between several crimes that share similarities. For example, people often confuse robbery with theft and burglary. Even individuals...
The U.S. Supreme Court has ruled on multiple occasions that police officers' duty to uncover criminal behavior can include lying to those being questioned. This is a primary reason that anyone speaking to Virginia police about potential criminal activity should say as...
When a criminal complaint has been filed by a prosecutor, a preliminary hearing is scheduled to determine if there's enough evidence available to go to trial in Virginia. During the hearing, you can expect witnesses to take the stand. The defense may cross-examine...