Newport News Criminal Law Blog

What are the typical first-time DUI punishments in Virginia?

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Wednesday, May 8, 2019.

Most people are well aware that drunk driving is illegal in Virginia and every other state, but they may not know the details of the law. For example, law enforcement can arrest you on suspicion of DUI if you have a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of at least 0.08%. You can also face charges if there is an open container of alcohol in your car and you show signs of impairment. And those are just a couple of ways to be accused.

Receiving a DUI conviction on your criminal record comes with legal, financial and personal repercussions. Knowing the specific aspects of drunk driving charges can help you be more aware of the issue, make better choices and be ready in case you ever get in trouble with the law. Here are the penalties you can expect for a first DUI offense.

Same-sex stepparent adoption in Virginia: Overcoming challenges

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Friday, March 29, 2019.

Adopting children can be challenging under the simplest circumstances. For same-sex couples, there may be additional concerns to be aware of.

Although marriage equality is recognized in all 50 states, same-sex couples may still face some discrimination in the courts. This has the potential to complicate many already complex matters, such as stepparent adoption in Virginia. Here is some background information on the subject as it pertains to same-sex marriage.

When can I reduce spousal support payments in Virginia?

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Wednesday, March 20, 2019.

Are you paying too much spousal support (traditionally known as alimony)? For some, modifying these orders is a financial necessity. However, having the economic need is not always enough. You would also need to present a formal, convincing argument to a judge.

Apart from situations involving cohabitation, remarriage or death, Virginia courts tend to divide eligible modification cases into two broad categories. If you are feeling like your support payments are unmanageable, it is likely you fall into one or both of these. Please read on for a brief analysis of each category, with some examples.

How child support is calculated in Virginia: Factors and issues

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Friday, February 15, 2019.

Despite a core process and regulations concerning each step, divorce remains a complicated activity. In theory, it sounds simple to divide property, split time with children and determine how much financial support is necessary.

Unfortunately, most parts of divorce rely on personal circumstances and unique factors. This means that even for aspects with a basic formula, such as child support, deviations are common, making the calculation anything but simple. Understanding how it works in Virginia can help you successfully navigate this complex area.

Three ways to manage high-conflict co-parenting situations

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Tuesday, January 8, 2019.

Divorce is a stressful thing. Dividing money, debt and time with children can cause tensions to run high. In some divorces, the conflict never seems to end, with repeat court dates, unsuccessful mediations and hearings keeping the wounds fresh.

High-conflict divorce proceedings can result from bitterness and vindictive feelings but also from normal reactions to very hard situations. Emotional challenges can become inflamed during custody and financial battles. How, then, can you navigate the co-parenting waters in this type of atmosphere? Here are three things you can do to reduce the stress in your family's post-divorce world.

Can a drug conviction impact your financial aid eligibility?

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Thursday, December 20, 2018.

As a college student facing a drug charge, whether for distribution, possession or another type of offense, you may have concerns about potentially having to go to jail. Even if you are able to avoid time behind bars, you may still face substantial fines and substance abuse treatment obligations, among other possible repercussions. You may also encounter consequences from outside the criminal justice system.

A criminal case can affect your education. For example, if you were a recipient of federal financial aid at the time law enforcement officials placed you under arrest for a drug charge, and you are convicted, you can anticipate losing your ability to utilize financial aid for a given time period.

Planning a road trip for the holidays? Read this first

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Monday, November 26, 2018.

The holiday season is one of the busiest times of the year for traffic. Whether you are gift shopping around town or driving out of state to visit relatives, you can encounter all kinds of negligent drivers. While most of us know about the dangers of drunk and distracted driving, the thought of falling asleep at the wheel may take a back seat.

However, the problem of drowsy driving is worse than you may think. In 2015, 824 people in the U.S. suffered fatal injuries in fatigue-related accidents, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Those who work late shifts, have an untreated sleep disorder or take medications that cause drowsiness are among the most likely to nod off behind the wheel. During the busy, stressful holiday season, you face an even higher risk of encountering a sleep-deprived or fatigued driver.

Social media and divorce: Four important things to know

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Monday, October 22, 2018.

While the universal challenges of marriage have been around for millennia, technology has changed relationships in many ways during the last decade. The phenomenon of social media, in particular, has made a significant impact not only on countless marriages but also on countless divorces.

According to sources quoted by Divorce Magazine, social media may play a role in 30 percent of divorces, or even more. Here are four things to know about social media and divorce.

Seven things to know about impaired driving (DUI) in Virginia

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Thursday, October 11, 2018.

Most of us understand that driving under the influence is illegal. But what exactly does that mean to a Virginia driver who is arrested on suspicion of DUI?

According to the Commonwealth's Department of Motor Vehicles, "Virginia is tough on drunk and drugged drivers." Have new laws made things any different for first-time offenders or suspects? What should you expect (and what should you do) if you are pulled over on suspicion of drunk or drugged driving? Here are seven things to keep in mind.

Domestic violence: When you need the help of an attorney

On behalf of Weisberg & Weisberg, P.L.L.C. on Monday, October 1, 2018.

Domestic violence is more common than most of us may think. According to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 24 people are victims of rape, physical violence or stalking every minute in this country.

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month. It is important to understand this pervasive and serious problem so you can seek help if you need it. Crisis intervention, counseling and the actions of law enforcement and the courts can keep victims safe. In some cases, the advice of a lawyer can be instrumental, too.