Driving under the influence of alcohol is a crime and a violation of the state's driving laws. You may face jail time and fines once you go to court on the criminal charges. However, before you ever have a conviction, you will likely lose your driving privileges....
Criminal Law
When is it within your rights to refuse a vehicle search?
Knowing your rights during a Virginia traffic stop may go a long way when it comes to helping you avoid unnecessary hardship. More specifically, if the law enforcement officer who pulls your car over wants to look through it, it pays to know when you do and do not...
Understanding how consent applies to sex crime charges
One of the primary sources of confusion with any sex crime charge is the matter of consent. While consent at its core is little more than yes or no, consent in the context of sex offenses is far more complex. Consent may be a critical factor in the charges you are...
How are jail and prison different?
Incarceration for a criminal conviction can happen either in jail or prison. But many people do not understand the difference between these two types of facilities. Jail and prison are not the same. In addition, sentencing guidelines will usually stipulate where the...
How people get caught for online sex crimes
The internet is somewhat of a wild west when it comes to legal issues, although this is slowly changing. Many people commit sex crimes in person; however, an increasing number of people use the internet during the course of committing a sex crime. There are many...
Evidence that prosecutors may use to prove intent to distribute
With intent to distribute charges, prosecutors may need to prove that defendants exchanged controlled substances for money or property. According to the Code of Virginia, the court may consider the financial value of an alleged exchange. A judge may review the dollar...
If you hyperventilate, can you beat a DUI breath test?
If you enjoy drinking alcohol with your friends, you probably also like spending an evening in a tavern, club or bar. While there is nothing inherently wrong with participating in a booze-fueled night on the town, it is unlawful to drive under the influence of...
How can a DUI jeopardize your child custody case?
Few things you have gone through during your life were likely to be more stressful than your current child custody dispute. If you have increased your alcohol consumption to help you manage your stress, though, you may want to find a healthier coping mechanism....
Three important steps to recover after a DUI conviction
Getting a DUI is a serious disruption in your life, but it is not meant to ruin you. If you can learn to view your arrest and conviction as a wake-up call, you can get through the experience and emerge a better version of yourself. 1. Stop drinking Whether your DUI...
How reliable is witness testimony?
Eyewitness testimony is a crucial element of the criminal justice system. Prosecutors have always relied on eyewitnesses to secure convictions and guilty pleas. However, according to the Innocence Project, more than 70 percent of overturned wrongful convictions stem...