Watching any measure of crime TV will introduce you to the term "probable cause." You may hear it concerning a traffic stop or entry into a residence during a tense situation. Do you understand what constitutes probable cause and when the police can institute it? If...
Criminal Defense
Solitary confinement: Protecting the rights of Virginia inmates
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) has challenged the treatment of inmates in Virginia prisons, particularly the "Super Max" Red Onion State Prison in Wise County, where a young inmate was found dead in January. The 20-year-old man's death was reportedly a...
Fight an aggravated DUI if you’re placed under arrest
An aggravated DUI is not the same as a typical DUI charge, because it means you're driving with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) well above the limit of .08 percent. Typically, the aggravated limit is between two and three times higher than .08 percent, making it...
Miranda rights matters: Staying silent to protect yourself
When you're accused of a crime, you may know that an arresting officer could read you your Miranda rights. Is the officer always required to do so at the point of arrest? No, and that's when it becomes tricky.When you're under arrest, the best thing you can do for...
Virginia lawmakers hope to stop ‘school-to-prison pipeline’
Virginia refers more school students to law enforcement than any other state. For every 1,000 students, Virginia schools send nearly 16 to authorities. It's a rate almost three times the national average with the highest referral rates being for middle school...
The process of a trial: What to expect
A criminal trial has many steps, but as someone facing charges, you first need to understand how to present yourself. It should be your priority to put your best foot forward and to look your best while following the rules of the court. Avoid interrupting the judge or...
How Virginia courts are helping inmates get sober and stay sober
Prison can be a revolving door for addicts who take a wrong turn trying to feed their addiction. The lack of resources offered to inmates suffering from addiction does little to nothing to ensure these offenders will not return to jail. Sadly, this is the typical...
Who can use the insanity defense?
When you're accused of a crime that you don't remember committing or that you believe you committed under the influence of drugs or another substance, you may be able to use an insanity defense. People with a history of mental illness, those who are driven to extremes...
Rose McGowan believes charges are meant to silence her
Imagine knowing something horrible about someone but being unable to say anything for fear of repercussions. When you finally do get the nerve to speak out, you coincidentally find yourself the center of a criminal case. That might be what's happening in this case.If...
Aggravated malicious wounding is a serious charge in any case
As someone accused of malicious wounding, it's vital that you understand exactly what that means. This is a serious allegation that could land you in prison. It is a felony in most cases, and it can ruin your reputation and stain your record.Aggravated malicious...