Serious, Skilled Criminal Law Attorneys Serving Clients Throughout Virginia
Being arrested, charged with, or even investigated for a crime can be a terrifying ordeal. When faced with potential criminal liability, your liberty, livelihood, reputation and even your relationships may be at stake. You will need to make some very important and timely decisions. At the outset, choosing the right legal representation is critical. That’s why you should contact Walker Jones, PC.
Our criminal defense practice is overseen by John C. Clark and Antonio R. Benedi, two experienced attorneys who defend clients against a wide array of criminal charges in Fauquier County and throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. They and the rest of our team provide supportive, trial-ready representation designed to help you resolve your charges favorably and help you get back to living your life. Whether you’ve been charged with a straightforward DUI to a complex white collar offense, we are ready to help.
We Work Hard To Resolve Your Drunk Driving Charges And Protect Your License
Driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs, also called driving while intoxicated (DWI), is a very serious matter. First-time offenses are typically misdemeanors punishable by a fine, driver’s license suspension, and a jail sentence depending on the person’s blood alcohol content (BAC). A DUI conviction will also go on a person’s permanent criminal record. For repeat offenders, the consequences are more severe.
Why Seek A Lawyer’s Help With Traffic Charges?
Drivers should not underestimate the legal repercussions that come from being charged with a traffic infraction or crime. From the most serious offenses to minor infractions, traffic law encompasses a wide range of issues and comes with a host of penalties. Common traffic charges include speeding, reckless driving, drunk driving and driving with a suspended license, to name just a few.
Remember that paying a fine (like a speeding ticket) is the same as pleading guilty. This can mean demerit points on your license (eventually risking suspension) and higher insurance premiums. In light of these costs, it is worth hiring an attorney to help keep your record clean.
Drug Possession And Distribution Charges
In recent years, Virginia has decriminalized the possession and cultivation of marijuana. However, this can lead to a false sense of security, as possessing more than a pound of marijuana can be charged as a felony punishable by 1 to 10 years in prison plus a fine of up to $250,000. Sales of the drug remain illegal and continue to be aggressively prosecuted in Virginia, much like the possession of other controlled substances and the distribution, sale, or manufacture of other illegal drugs like heroin, fentanyl and LSD.
All charges involving drug distribution and possession with intent to distribute carry severe punishments. Subsequent drug offense charges of distribution or possession with intent to distribute can carry mandatory minimum sentences that result in exposure to decades of mandatory prison sentences.
Charged With A Violent Crime?
Our attorneys defend clients against all manner of violent crimes charges, from simple assault to first-degree murder. Convictions can result in sentences ranging from months to life in prison, hefty fines and perhaps victim restitution. These cases are complex and high-stakes, and the help of an experienced lawyer is crucial.
Sex Offense Allegations Can Threaten Your Freedom And Reputation
Depending on the circumstances, a sexual assault and battery or prostitution can be charged as a misdemeanor or felony and may carry lengthy prison sentences. Solicitation of minors and child pornography are felonies that carry punishments ranging from decades to life in prison, hefty fines, and sex offender registration continuing even after completing a prison sentence. Those convicted of a sex offense will have a permanent criminal record which, needless to say, can have long-lasting consequences.
What Are Your Rights If You Are Stopped By The Police?
If you are stopped by the police, you may need to identify yourself – such as during a legal traffic stop, where you will be asked for your driver’s license. An officer may want to question you about what you are doing, where you are going or where you are coming from, but you are not legally required to answer these questions. If they do not have a valid reason to detain or arrest you, they may allow you to leave if you ask if you are free to go.
Officers often operate on a consent basis – hoping you will consent to a search or consent to answer questions – but there is no legal requirement in the absence of a warrant or a legal arrest. You are not obligated to talk to a police officer just because they are police officers.
What Steps Should You Take Immediately Following An Arrest?
If you get arrested, it is time to begin looking into your legal options. As soon as you can, contact a criminal defense attorney. Remember that you have a right to remain silent. You do not have to incriminate yourself.
If the police officers question you, you do not have to answer anything without your attorney present, but you do need to vocalize your intention to assert your right to remain silent without attorney representation. Once you have an attorney, you can begin the process of planning your defense, filing paperwork, going to court dates, gathering evidence and much more.
What Are The Benefits Of Hiring A Private Criminal Defense Attorney?
Experience is key when facing serious criminal defense cases. You do have a right to legal representation under U.S. law, so you will be assigned a public defender if you do not hire an attorney. However, public defenders typically do not have nearly as much experience as a dedicated criminal defense firm, which means they may not address certain important nuances in the law or your case.
In addition, public defenders often have heavy caseloads and few resources. A private criminal defense attorney can dedicate more focus to your case and has the resources to potentially achieve a more favorable outcome. When your future and freedom are at stake, you want the personalized attention and emotional support a private defender can provide.
Contact Us Today To Discuss Your Rights And Legal Options
With offices in Warrenton and Rappahannock, Walker Jones, PC, serves clients throughout Virginia. If you’ve been arrested and charged with a crime, don’t wait to take action. Instead, contact us to schedule an initial consultation. Just call 540-595-3657 or reach out online.
Meet Our Virginia Criminal Lawyers
John C. Clark
Antonio R. Benedi
Walker Jones, PC, serves clients throughout Virginia, including Fauquier, Rappahannock, Culpeper, Loudoun, Prince William, Fairfax, Arlington, Alexandria, Warren, Winchester, Frederick, Clarke, Stafford, Spotsylvania, Fredericksburg, Madison, Orange and Albemarle.