Colonial Heights Criminal Lawyer
Have you been accused of criminal action within Colonial Heights or the surrounding area? If so, our Colonial Heights criminal lawyers are standing by to help you fight that accusation. The sooner you contact our firm, the sooner our legal team can start fighting for you. Consult with an experienced criminal attorney in Virginia today to discuss your case.
Why Hire a Colonial Heights Criminal Lawyer?
The thought of undergoing prosecution can be frightening and overwhelming, with stress arising from both confusion about what you should do and concern about what your future may hold. A criminal attorney in Colonial Heights can help you go down the right path by:
- Making sure the prosecution’s evidence collection process followed the law and making sure the evidence is thrown out if not.
- Collecting and presenting strong evidence in your favor.
- Using their local experience and familiarity with the courts to work out any possible plea bargains or sentence reductions.
- Taking the burden off you by organizing and managing the important aspects of your case.
Opting for private legal representation sends a definite message, and our Colonial Heights criminal attorneys will fight aggressively to deliver the best results possible, given the circumstances of your case.
Virginia Criminal Charges
There are many different possible crimes someone might be accused of, but some of the major ones are those involving violence, theft, prostitution, or drunk driving. The following are common criminal charges which may warrant contact with a Colonial Heights criminal defense attorney.
What Is Assault?
Under Virginia Code Section 18.2-57, assault is the use of threats or physical contact to put another in fear of imminent bodily harm. Assault and battery are when assault is followed by harmful physical contact, i.e., the individual followed through on the threat.
Theft in Virginia
Larceny occurs when an individual steals something from another. This includes charges like shoplifting. Under Virginia Code Sections 18.2-95 and 18.2-96, petit larceny is when the amount stolen is under $200, and grand larceny occurs when the monetary value of the stolen property exceeds $200.
DUI in Virginia
There are many different ways of being charged with a DUI, but the most cut and dry definition is that, under Section 18.2-266 of the Virginia Code, an individual driving while their BAC is at or above .08% is guilty of driving under the influence.
What are the Penalties for a Criminal Offense in Colonial Heights?
Penalties for crimes in Virginia depend largely on the severity of the crime. For example, under Virginia Code Section 18.2-270, a first-time DUI charge is a class 1 misdemeanor. Section 18.2-11 of the Virginia Code states that class 1 misdemeanors carry a penalty of up to 12 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $2,500, but in the case of drunk driving, the mandatory minimum fine is $250. An assault charge under Section 18.2-57 of the Virginia Code is also a class 1 misdemeanor, and the same goes for a charge of petit larceny under Virginia Code Section 18.2-96.
However, more severe versions of these crimes result in more severe penalties. For example, Virginia Code Section 18.2-95 states that a grand larceny charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment. Whatever charges you stand accused of, an attorney practicing criminal law in Colonial Heights will be able to help you navigate all of these statutes and understand all of your options.
Other Crimes
Colonial Heights Courthouse Information
The Petersburg Circuit Court serves the 11th Judicial District of Virginia and is the highest trial court with general jurisdiction. It is where most felonies and all jury trials are conducted, and is located in Petersburg, Virginia, at 7 Courthouse Avenue.
There is also a General District Court in Colonial Heights. It is located at 550 Boulevard. A Colonial Heights criminal lawyer may represent you in General District Court, as well. Cases heard in the General District Court include:
- Traffic Violations
- Juvenile and Domestic Relations Cases
- Minor Criminal Cases
- Preliminary Hearings
Legal Processes in DUI Cases
Navigating a DUI charge involves a complex legal process that can be daunting without proper guidance. Understanding your rights and the procedures involved is crucial for anyone facing such charges.
One key aspect of DUI cases is the implied consent law. By operating a motor vehicle, drivers are deemed to have given their consent to chemical tests (breath, blood, or both) to determine their blood alcohol content (BAC). Refusal to submit to these tests can lead to severe penalties, including an automatic license suspension. The relevant statute is Virginia Code § 18.2-268.2, which outlines the details of implied consent.
When a person is charged with a DUI, they are entitled to an administrative hearing to challenge the suspension of their driver’s license. This hearing is separate from the criminal court proceedings and focuses on whether the police had reasonable grounds to believe the individual was driving under the influence and followed the proper procedures during the arrest.
Testing refusals carry their own set of legal consequences. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-268.3, a first refusal offense can result in a one-year license suspension. Subsequent refusals can lead to harsher penalties, including longer suspensions and potential jail time.
Understanding these processes and the specific rights afforded to individuals can significantly impact the outcome of a DUI case. Consulting with a knowledgeable DUI lawyer in Colonial Heights is essential to navigate these legal complexities and ensure your rights are protected.
Call a Colonial Heights Criminal Attorney Today
If you are caught up in the justice system, one of our experienced attorneys will be able to help you disentangle yourself. A Colonial Heights criminal lawyer can fight to achieve the most favorable possible outcome for your case. Call today for a free consultation.
