A fake ID can seem like no big deal until it leads to criminal charges. Virginia law takes these offenses seriously, and the penalties go well beyond a slap on the wrist. College students across Lynchburg and the surrounding area face real consequences when they are...
When The Charges Are Serious, Turn To A
Lawyer You Can Trust
Free consultations
for criminal cases
Criminal Defense
Can you negotiate a plea deal?
A plea deal is essentially an agreement between you and the prosecutor. You agree to plead guilty or no contest to certain charges in exchange for a benefit like reduced charges, shorter sentences or alternative programs. The prosecutor benefits too. Plea deals save...
Can a DUI arrest trigger a child welfare case in Virginia?
A DUI arrest in Virginia involving a minor passenger effectively starts two legal clocks. While you work to defend your driver’s license and freedom in criminal court, a parallel notification often goes to the state’s Child Protective Services (CPS) department. You...
Are college students at risk of charges after a fight at a party?
Alcohol consumption at a party can lead to very problematic decisions. People who have had too much to drink may struggle with their impulse control. In some cases, they may end up involved in physical altercations. Unlike adults who have years of practice to learn...
Does the right to remain silent mean not talking at all?
If you are in police custody and they wish to interrogate you, they are required to read you the Miranda warnings, informing you of your right to remain silent. For instance, when arrested at a traffic stop for driving under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Or...
What is involuntary manslaughter in Virginia?
Murder and manslaughter are the two main forms of homicide prosecuted in Virginia. If one person does something that causes the death of another, they could potentially face homicide charges. State prosecutors may pursue manslaughter charges in scenarios where the...
Why underage college students risk the consequences of drinking
While some college students are old enough to drink, many of them are under the legal age. It is fairly common for college freshmen and sophomores to be arrested for alcohol-related charges. This could just be a minor in possession (MIP) charge, but it could also be...
Can shoplifting land your child in a juvenile detention center?
Every parent dreads that call from store security or law enforcement. When your child faces shoplifting charges, one of the questions that keeps you up at night is likely whether they could end up in a detention center. While it is possible in Virginia, it is not the...
When can fraternity parties lead to felony charges?
Fraternity parties are viewed as social events designed for fun and camaraderie. However, some gatherings can cross legal boundaries, turning a night of celebration into a serious criminal matter. Many factors determine whether a party could result in felony charges....
Cellphone searches and the third-party doctrine
During some criminal cases, the authorities will be looking for digital evidence, and they may want to search a person’s cellphone. The first way they can do this is by asking for consent and getting the person to voluntarily unlock their phone. But if the person will...

