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...
Criminal Law
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...
With a felony DUI, how hard will it be to land the job you want?
In the Commonwealth of Virginia, a third offense of driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol (DUI) is a felony. With a felony conviction on your record, how difficult will it be to find the kind of job you want and an employer who will hire you, even if you are...
Why is the right to remain silent so important?
When an officer places you under arrest, you will hear about your rights. One of those is the right to remain silent. This is a very important right you have to protect yourself. Findlaw explains the right to remain silent means you do not have to provide information...
Can you legally refuse DUI testing?
According to the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles, the state convicted 18,648 drunk drivers in 2019. Most of these convictions began with a traffic stop. If you get pulled over by a law enforcement officer who questions your sobriety, you may not know what to do...
3 methods of prescription drug diversion
Some medications can be dangerous if used incorrectly. For this reason, the law requires a prescription from a doctor to obtain a certain medication. If you possess a prescription drug without being an authorized user, you could face criminal charges. Prescription...