Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer: Your Rights, Your Defense

Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer: Navigating the complexities of the legal system in Virginia Beach can be daunting, especially when facing criminal charges. A skilled criminal defense lawyer can provide invaluable guidance and support, ensuring your rights are protected and the best possible outcome is achieved.

This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of Virginia Beach criminal law, the crucial role of a criminal defense lawyer, and the steps involved in navigating the criminal justice system. We will explore common offenses, legal defenses, and potential outcomes, empowering you with the knowledge to make informed decisions and secure your future.

Understanding Virginia Beach Criminal Law

Navigating the complexities of the legal system can be daunting, especially when facing criminal charges. Understanding the nuances of Virginia Beach criminal law is crucial for anyone facing such a situation. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the legal landscape in Virginia Beach, offering insights into the types of offenses, the court system, and the distinction between misdemeanors and felonies.

Types of Criminal Offenses in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, like any other jurisdiction, has a broad range of criminal offenses, each carrying its own set of penalties and consequences. Some of the most common offenses encountered in Virginia Beach include:

• Drug offenses: Virginia Beach has strict laws regarding the possession, distribution, and manufacturing of illegal drugs. These offenses can range from simple possession of marijuana to trafficking large quantities of narcotics, with penalties varying significantly based on the type and amount of drug involved.
• Assault and Battery: These offenses involve physical harm or threats of harm to another person. The severity of the charge depends on the nature and extent of the injury inflicted.
• DUI (Driving Under the Influence): Virginia Beach enforces strict DUI laws, with penalties increasing with each subsequent offense.
• Theft: Theft crimes encompass a wide spectrum, including larceny, robbery, and embezzlement. The specific charge depends on the value of the stolen property and the method used to obtain it.
• Property Crimes: This category includes offenses like vandalism, arson, and burglary. The penalties associated with property crimes vary depending on the extent of the damage caused.
• Domestic Violence: Virginia Beach takes domestic violence seriously, with laws in place to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.

Virginia Beach Court System

Understanding the structure of the Virginia Beach court system is crucial for navigating criminal proceedings. The system is hierarchical, with cases progressing through different levels based on the severity of the offense:

• General District Court: This is the initial court for misdemeanor offenses and preliminary hearings for felony charges.
• Circuit Court: Felony cases are tried in Circuit Court.
• Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court: This court handles cases involving minors and family matters, including custody disputes and child support.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies

Virginia Beach criminal offenses are categorized as either misdemeanors or felonies, with significant differences in penalties and consequences:

• Misdemeanors: These are less serious offenses, typically punishable by fines and/or jail time of less than 12 months. Examples include petty theft, disorderly conduct, and driving without a license.
• Felonies: These are more serious offenses, carrying heavier penalties, including imprisonment for more than a year. Examples include robbery, drug trafficking, and murder.

Specific Laws and Regulations

Virginia Beach has specific laws and regulations that apply to criminal cases. These laws can cover a wide range of issues, including:

• Gun Laws: Virginia Beach has strict gun control laws, with regulations governing the purchase, possession, and use of firearms.
• Domestic Violence: Virginia Beach has a zero-tolerance policy for domestic violence, with laws in place to protect victims and hold perpetrators accountable.
• Drug Laws: Virginia Beach has strict laws regarding the possession, distribution, and manufacturing of illegal drugs.

The Role of a Criminal Defense Lawyer: Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer

In the complex and often intimidating world of criminal justice, having a skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer by your side is crucial. A Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer acts as your advocate, ensuring your rights are protected and your best interests are represented throughout the legal process.

Key Responsibilities of a Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer

A Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer plays a vital role in navigating the legal system and advocating for their clients. They are responsible for:

• Investigating the case: This includes gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and reviewing police reports to build a strong defense strategy.
• Negotiating with the prosecution: A criminal defense lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to reduce charges, lessen potential penalties, or even dismiss the case altogether.
• Representing the client in court: This involves appearing in court on behalf of the client, arguing motions, presenting evidence, and cross-examining witnesses.
• Advising the client on their legal options: A criminal defense lawyer will provide guidance and advice on all legal options available to the client, ensuring they understand the potential consequences of each decision.
• Protecting the client’s rights: A criminal defense lawyer is obligated to ensure that all of the client’s constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process. This includes the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a fair trial.

How a Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Protect the Rights of Their Clients, Virginia beach criminal defense lawyer

Protecting a client’s rights is paramount in the criminal justice system. A Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer can effectively protect these rights by:

• Ensuring proper procedures are followed: Criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in legal procedures and can ensure that all applicable rules and regulations are followed throughout the case. This includes ensuring that the client’s rights are not violated during arrests, searches, and interrogations.
• Challenging illegal evidence: If evidence was obtained illegally, a criminal defense lawyer can file motions to suppress it, preventing it from being used against the client in court.
• Negotiating plea bargains: In some cases, a plea bargain may be the best option for a client. A criminal defense lawyer can negotiate with the prosecution to reach a favorable plea agreement that minimizes the potential consequences for the client.
• Preparing for trial: A criminal defense lawyer will meticulously prepare for trial by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and developing a strong defense strategy. This ensures that the client is adequately represented in court and has the best possible chance of a favorable outcome.

Strategies Employed by Criminal Defense Lawyers in Virginia Beach

Criminal defense lawyers employ various strategies to effectively represent their clients. Some common strategies include:

• Building a strong defense: This involves gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and developing a compelling narrative that supports the client’s innocence or mitigates their culpability.
• Negotiating with the prosecution: Criminal defense lawyers often negotiate with the prosecution to reach a favorable plea agreement or reduce charges. This can significantly impact the potential consequences for the client.
• Filing motions to suppress evidence: If evidence was obtained illegally, a criminal defense lawyer can file motions to suppress it, preventing it from being used against the client in court.
• Challenging the prosecution’s case: A criminal defense lawyer may challenge the prosecution’s case by raising doubts about the credibility of witnesses, the reliability of evidence, or the sufficiency of the prosecution’s proof.
• Presenting a strong defense at trial: If the case goes to trial, a criminal defense lawyer will present a strong defense by calling witnesses, presenting evidence, and arguing the client’s case to the jury.

Examples of Successful Outcomes Achieved by Criminal Defense Lawyers in Similar Cases

Criminal defense lawyers in Virginia Beach have achieved numerous successful outcomes for their clients in various cases. Some examples include:

• Dismissal of charges: In some cases, criminal defense lawyers have successfully negotiated with the prosecution to have charges dismissed altogether. This can occur when there is insufficient evidence to support the charges or when the prosecution believes that a trial would be unlikely to result in a conviction.
• Reduction of charges: In other cases, criminal defense lawyers have been able to negotiate a reduction in charges, leading to less severe penalties for the client. This can be particularly beneficial in cases where the initial charges were overly broad or did not accurately reflect the client’s actions.
• Acquittal at trial: In cases where the prosecution cannot prove their case beyond a reasonable doubt, criminal defense lawyers have successfully obtained acquittals for their clients. This demonstrates the importance of having a skilled and experienced attorney who can effectively challenge the prosecution’s evidence and present a compelling defense.
• Reduced sentences: Even in cases where a client is found guilty, a criminal defense lawyer can often negotiate for a reduced sentence, minimizing the potential consequences for the client. This can involve arguing for probation, community service, or other alternative sentencing options.

Navigating the Criminal Justice System in Virginia Beach

Understanding the Virginia Beach criminal justice system can be daunting, but having a clear grasp of the process can help you navigate it effectively. This section will Artikel the steps involved in the criminal justice process in Virginia Beach, providing guidance on handling police interactions and arrests, the importance of legal representation, and tips for communicating with law enforcement and prosecutors.

Police Interactions and Arrests

When interacting with law enforcement in Virginia Beach, it is crucial to remain calm and respectful. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney.

• Remain Silent: You are not obligated to answer any questions asked by law enforcement. Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney.
• Request an Attorney: If you are arrested or detained, immediately request an attorney. You have the right to have an attorney present during questioning and any legal proceedings.
• Document the Interaction: If possible, try to document the interaction with law enforcement, including the time, date, location, officers’ names, and any statements made. This documentation can be helpful if you need to file a complaint or seek legal recourse.

Importance of Legal Representation

Obtaining legal representation is crucial throughout the criminal justice process. A criminal defense attorney in Virginia Beach can provide valuable assistance, including:

• Understanding Your Rights: An attorney will ensure you understand your rights and the charges against you.
• Negotiating with Prosecutors: Your attorney will negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf, potentially leading to a plea bargain or reduced charges.
• Preparing for Trial: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will prepare a strong defense strategy and represent you in court.
• Protecting Your Interests: Your attorney will advocate for your best interests throughout the legal process.

Communicating with Law Enforcement and Prosecutors

While it’s essential to be respectful and cooperative, it’s equally important to be cautious when communicating with law enforcement and prosecutors.

• Avoid Making Statements: Avoid making any statements that could be used against you. It is best to exercise your right to remain silent and consult with your attorney before making any statements.
• Communicate Through Your Attorney: All communication with law enforcement and prosecutors should be conducted through your attorney. This ensures that your rights are protected and that your statements are not misinterpreted.
• Be Truthful and Honest: While it is important to avoid self-incrimination, it is crucial to be truthful and honest with your attorney. This allows your attorney to develop the best possible defense strategy on your behalf.

Common Criminal Offenses in Virginia Beach

Virginia Beach, like any other city, experiences its share of criminal activity. Understanding common offenses and their legal implications is crucial for residents and visitors alike. This section will delve into some of the most prevalent criminal offenses in Virginia Beach, providing insights into their specific laws and penalties.

Driving Under the Influence (DUI/DWI)

DUI/DWI offenses are a serious concern in Virginia Beach. Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a criminal offense with severe consequences. The penalties for DUI/DWI offenses in Virginia Beach can be quite severe, including fines, jail time, and license suspension. The specific penalties will depend on the circumstances of the offense, including the driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) and whether there were any injuries or property damage.

• First Offense: A first-time DUI offense in Virginia Beach can result in a fine of up to $2,500, a jail sentence of up to one year, and a driver’s license suspension of up to one year. The offender may also be required to install an ignition interlock device on their vehicle.
• Second Offense: A second DUI offense within ten years of a previous DUI conviction can lead to a fine of up to $5,000, a jail sentence of up to five years, and a driver’s license suspension of up to three years.
• Third Offense: A third DUI offense within ten years of a previous DUI conviction can result in a fine of up to $10,000, a jail sentence of up to ten years, and a driver’s license suspension of up to five years.

Drug Offenses

Virginia Beach has strict laws against drug possession, distribution, and manufacturing. The penalties for drug offenses vary depending on the type and quantity of the drug involved, as well as the offender’s criminal history.

• Possession of Marijuana: Possession of small amounts of marijuana for personal use is a misdemeanor in Virginia. The penalties for possession of marijuana can include a fine and up to 30 days in jail.
• Distribution of Marijuana: Distribution of marijuana is a felony offense in Virginia. The penalties for distribution of marijuana can include a fine and up to ten years in prison.
• Possession of Cocaine or Heroin: Possession of cocaine or heroin is a felony offense in Virginia. The penalties for possession of cocaine or heroin can include a fine and up to ten years in prison.

Assault and Battery

Assault and battery are serious offenses in Virginia Beach, involving unlawful physical harm or the threat of harm to another person. The penalties for assault and battery can vary depending on the severity of the injuries inflicted and the circumstances surrounding the incident.

• Simple Assault: Simple assault involves an unlawful act that places another person in fear of immediate harm. The penalties for simple assault can include a fine and up to one year in jail.
• Battery: Battery involves unlawful physical contact with another person. The penalties for battery can include a fine and up to one year in jail.
• Aggravated Assault: Aggravated assault involves an assault that results in serious bodily injury or involves the use of a deadly weapon. The penalties for aggravated assault can include a fine and up to twenty years in prison.

Domestic Violence

Domestic violence is a serious offense in Virginia Beach, and it is taken very seriously by law enforcement. Domestic violence is defined as any act of violence against a family or household member. This includes acts of physical violence, sexual assault, and emotional abuse.

• Protective Orders: In cases of domestic violence, a victim can petition the court for a protective order, which can prohibit the abuser from contacting the victim or coming within a certain distance of the victim’s home or workplace.
• Penalties: Penalties for domestic violence offenses can include fines, jail time, and the mandatory completion of anger management classes.

Seeking Legal Assistance in Virginia Beach

Facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience, and navigating the complexities of the legal system can feel overwhelming. A skilled and experienced criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach can provide crucial support and guidance throughout the process.

Choosing a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Virginia Beach

Selecting the right legal representation is paramount to protecting your rights and achieving the best possible outcome in your case. Consider these factors when choosing a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach:

• Experience and Expertise: Look for a lawyer with a proven track record in handling cases similar to yours. Specialization in specific areas of criminal law, such as DUI defense, drug offenses, or violent crimes, can be beneficial.
• Reputation and Client Testimonials: Research the lawyer’s reputation and read client testimonials to gain insights into their professionalism, communication skills, and overall client satisfaction.
• Communication and Availability: Effective communication is crucial. Choose a lawyer who is responsive, explains legal matters clearly, and is available to answer your questions.
• Fees and Payment Options: Discuss the lawyer’s fees and payment options upfront to ensure transparency and avoid unexpected costs.
• Location and Accessibility: While virtual consultations are increasingly common, consider the lawyer’s physical location in Virginia Beach and its accessibility for in-person meetings.

Types of Criminal Defense Lawyers

Different types of criminal defense lawyers specialize in specific areas of law. Here’s a table outlining some common types and their areas of expertise:

Communicating with a Potential Criminal Defense Lawyer

Effective communication with your lawyer is essential. Here are some tips for effective communication:

• Prepare a List of Questions: Before your consultation, write down a list of questions you have about your case, the legal process, and your lawyer’s experience.
• Be Honest and Transparent: Provide your lawyer with all relevant information about your case, even if it seems incriminating.
• Listen Carefully: Pay attention to your lawyer’s explanations and ask for clarification if needed.
• Ask for Written Summaries: Request written summaries of important discussions or legal strategies to ensure clarity and understanding.
• Maintain Regular Contact: Stay in regular contact with your lawyer to receive updates and discuss any concerns.

Obtaining a Free Consultation

Most criminal defense lawyers in Virginia Beach offer free consultations. This initial meeting allows you to discuss your case, ask questions, and assess the lawyer’s suitability for representing you. During a free consultation, you can:

• Explain the details of your case.
• Discuss your legal options and potential defenses.
• Learn about the lawyer’s experience and fees.
• Ask any questions you may have.

A free consultation is an invaluable opportunity to gather information, understand your rights, and make an informed decision about legal representation.

Protecting Your Rights in Virginia Beach

In the Virginia Beach criminal justice system, understanding your constitutional rights is crucial for ensuring a fair and just outcome. These rights are fundamental safeguards that protect individuals from undue government intrusion and ensure a level playing field in legal proceedings.

Common Rights Violations

It is important to be aware of common rights violations that can occur during a criminal investigation. These violations can have significant consequences for your case, potentially leading to the suppression of evidence or even dismissal of charges.

• Illegal Searches and Seizures: The Fourth Amendment protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures. Law enforcement officers must have a warrant based on probable cause to search your person, property, or vehicle. A warrantless search is generally illegal, except in certain limited circumstances, such as when there is probable cause to believe that you are in possession of contraband or evidence of a crime, or when there is an emergency situation.
• Illegal Interrogations: The Fifth Amendment protects individuals from self-incrimination. You have the right to remain silent and the right to an attorney during questioning by law enforcement. If you are arrested or detained, law enforcement officers must inform you of these rights, known as your Miranda rights. Failure to provide these warnings or obtaining a confession without a lawyer present can result in the suppression of your statements in court.
• Improper Identification Procedures: The Sixth Amendment guarantees the right to a fair trial. This includes the right to a fair and impartial identification procedure. If law enforcement uses identification procedures that are unduly suggestive or unreliable, the results may be inadmissible in court.

The Fourth Amendment and Criminal Cases

The Fourth Amendment plays a significant role in criminal cases in Virginia Beach. It protects individuals from unreasonable searches and seizures, ensuring that law enforcement officers do not intrude on your privacy without proper justification. This amendment is crucial in safeguarding against potential abuses of power and ensuring that evidence obtained illegally is not used against you in court.

Strategies for Protecting Your Rights

It is essential to understand your rights and how to protect them during interactions with law enforcement. Here are some strategies to help safeguard your rights:

• Remain Silent: You have the right to remain silent during questioning by law enforcement. Exercise this right and do not answer any questions without consulting with an attorney.
• Request an Attorney: If you are arrested or detained, you have the right to an attorney. Request an attorney immediately and do not speak to law enforcement without one present.
• Document Interactions: Keep a record of all interactions with law enforcement, including dates, times, locations, and names of officers involved. This documentation can be valuable in case of any disputes or legal proceedings.
• Seek Legal Counsel: If you believe your rights have been violated or if you are facing criminal charges, seek legal counsel from an experienced Virginia Beach criminal defense attorney. An attorney can provide guidance, represent you in court, and help protect your rights throughout the legal process.

Building a Strong Defense in Virginia Beach

A strong defense is crucial for anyone facing criminal charges in Virginia Beach. Understanding your legal options and working closely with a skilled criminal defense attorney can significantly impact the outcome of your case.

Legal Defenses Available to Criminal Defendants

A criminal defense attorney will explore all available legal defenses to protect your rights and minimize the potential consequences of the charges against you. Some common legal defenses include:

• Lack of Evidence: The prosecution must prove beyond a reasonable doubt that you committed the crime. If they fail to present sufficient evidence, the case may be dismissed.
• Alibi: This defense involves providing evidence that you were elsewhere at the time the crime occurred. This evidence could include witness testimony, time-stamped records, or physical evidence.
• Self-Defense: This defense applies when you used force to protect yourself from imminent harm. The law allows for the use of reasonable force to defend yourself against an attacker.
• Insanity: This defense is rarely successful but may be applicable if you were suffering from a mental illness that prevented you from understanding the nature of your actions or from knowing right from wrong.
• Entrapment: This defense applies when a law enforcement officer induced you to commit a crime that you would not have otherwise committed. The officer must have used coercion or persuasion to convince you to break the law.
• Mistake of Fact: This defense involves a genuine misunderstanding of the facts surrounding the alleged crime. For example, if you took someone else’s property believing it was yours, you might be able to use this defense.
• Statute of Limitations: This defense prevents prosecution if the government fails to file charges within the prescribed time limit for a particular offense.

The Concept of “Reasonable Doubt”

In a criminal trial, the prosecution bears the burden of proof. They must convince the jury that you are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This means that the jury must be certain, to a moral certainty, that you committed the crime. The prosecution must present evidence that leaves no room for any reasonable doubt about your guilt.

Gathering Evidence and Witness Testimony

Your criminal defense attorney will play a crucial role in gathering evidence and witness testimony to support your defense. This may involve:

• Investigating the crime scene: This can help uncover evidence that supports your defense or casts doubt on the prosecution’s case.
• Interviewing witnesses: Witnesses who can provide evidence in your favor, such as alibis or other relevant information, can be vital to your defense.
• Obtaining and reviewing police reports: These reports may contain inconsistencies or errors that could benefit your defense.
• Requesting discovery: This process allows your attorney to obtain copies of all evidence that the prosecution intends to use at trial.

Examples of Successful Defenses in Virginia Beach Criminal Cases

• Case 1: A defendant was accused of assault and battery. The defense attorney successfully argued that the defendant acted in self-defense after being attacked by the alleged victim. The jury acquitted the defendant.
• Case 2: A defendant was charged with drug possession. The defense attorney successfully argued that the police had conducted an illegal search and seizure. The judge suppressed the evidence, and the charges were dismissed.
• Case 3: A defendant was accused of driving under the influence (DUI). The defense attorney successfully argued that the breathalyzer test was inaccurate due to a mechanical error. The charges were dismissed.

Potential Outcomes of a Criminal Case

Facing criminal charges can be a daunting experience, and understanding the potential outcomes is crucial. The Virginia Beach criminal justice system offers various paths, ranging from plea bargains to trials and appeals.

Plea Bargains in Virginia Beach

Plea bargains are agreements between the prosecution and the defendant where the defendant pleads guilty to a lesser charge or a reduced sentence in exchange for dropping some or all of the original charges. This can be a strategic option for defendants who wish to avoid a trial and potentially obtain a more favorable outcome.

Types of Plea Bargains

• Charge Reduction: The prosecution agrees to reduce the original charge to a lesser offense, such as reducing a felony to a misdemeanor.
• Sentence Reduction: The prosecution agrees to recommend a shorter sentence or a less severe punishment than the original charge would carry.
• Plea to a Lesser Included Offense: The defendant pleads guilty to a lesser offense that is included within the original charge. For example, if charged with robbery, the defendant might plead guilty to larceny.
• Concurrent Sentences: If the defendant faces multiple charges, the prosecution may agree to have the sentences run concurrently, meaning they are served at the same time.

Consequences of a Guilty Verdict

If a defendant is found guilty at trial, they face a range of potential consequences depending on the severity of the offense and their criminal history.

Potential Consequences

• Incarceration: This is the most common consequence of a guilty verdict, ranging from a short jail sentence to a lengthy prison term. The length of the sentence depends on the specific crime and the judge’s discretion.
• Fines: Monetary penalties are often imposed in addition to or instead of incarceration. The amount of the fine is determined by the court and can vary significantly.
• Probation: Instead of incarceration, a judge may impose probation, which involves supervision by a probation officer and adherence to certain conditions. Probation can include community service, drug testing, and counseling.
• Restitution: If the crime resulted in financial harm to the victim, the court may order the defendant to pay restitution, which is compensation for the victim’s losses.
• Loss of Rights: A criminal conviction can lead to the loss of certain rights, such as the right to vote, the right to own firearms, and the right to hold certain professional licenses.

Sentencing Options in Virginia Beach

Judges in Virginia Beach have a range of sentencing options available to them, depending on the nature of the offense, the defendant’s criminal history, and other factors.

Sentencing Options

• Suspended Sentence: The judge may suspend a portion or all of the sentence, meaning the defendant does not have to serve it immediately. However, they will be on probation and subject to certain conditions.
• Community Service: The judge may order the defendant to perform community service as part of their sentence.
• Drug Treatment: For offenses related to drug use, the judge may order the defendant to undergo drug treatment or counseling.
• Mental Health Treatment: If the defendant has mental health issues, the judge may order them to receive mental health treatment.
• Electronic Monitoring: The judge may require the defendant to wear an electronic monitoring device to track their whereabouts.

Appeals Process in Virginia Beach

A defendant convicted of a crime in Virginia Beach has the right to appeal the conviction. This involves filing a formal request with a higher court, arguing that the trial court made an error that affected the outcome of the case.

Appeals Process

1. Filing a Notice of Appeal: The defendant must file a formal notice of appeal within a specific time frame after the conviction.
2. Preparing the Appeal Brief: The defendant’s attorney will prepare a brief outlining the legal arguments for why the conviction should be overturned.
3. Oral Arguments: The appellate court may schedule oral arguments, where the attorneys for both sides present their arguments to the judges.
4. Decision: The appellate court will review the case and issue a decision. The court can uphold the conviction, overturn the conviction, or send the case back to the trial court for a new trial.

Concluding Remarks

Facing criminal charges in Virginia Beach can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, understanding your rights, the legal process, and the role of a criminal defense lawyer is essential for achieving the best possible outcome. By seeking qualified legal representation, you can navigate the challenges ahead with confidence and protect your future.

Popular Questions

What are the most common criminal offenses in Virginia Beach?

Common offenses include DUI/DWI, drug possession, assault and battery, domestic violence, and theft.

How can I find a qualified criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach?

You can search online directories, seek referrals from trusted sources, and consult with the Virginia State Bar.

What should I do if I am arrested in Virginia Beach?

Remain silent, request a lawyer, and avoid making any statements to law enforcement.

What are the potential consequences of a guilty verdict in a Virginia Beach criminal trial?

Consequences can include fines, jail time, probation, community service, and a criminal record.