by admin | Nov 12, 2014 | Shoplifting
Many people use the term “theft” to broadly describe a number of crimes involving stealing property. However, there are clear differences between such crimes. Burglary and robbery, for example, are not the same. Each has a different legal definition in addition to its own specific punishments. Here are the three most common theft-related crimes: Larceny. Larceny has the broadest description of any theft-related crime, and in Virginia, larceny describes any non-specific theft crime. The term “larceny” has no general definition in Virginia law, though it is assumed to be the unlawful taking of property with intent to permanently separate the person from his or her property. Numerous specific larcenies are defined to include larceny of bank notes and checks, larceny of specific animals, shoplifting, and receiving stolen goods. As in most states, the punishments for larceny are largely determined by the amount stolen, usually categorized as grand larceny (greater than $200) or petit larceny (less than $200). Burglary. Burglary is breaking and entering with the intent to commit larceny or some other crime. Any home invasion can be considered burglary, whether or not anything was stolen. The intent to commit a crime and the act of unlawfully entering someone else’s property are enough to convict a person of burglary. Robbery. This term refers to the crime of taking a person’s property through the use or threat of violence. Causing physical harm to a person or threatening him or her with firearms while taking their property constitutes first-degree robbery, and is punishable in Virginia by no less than three years in prison, and up to 10 years or life. Second-degree...
by admin | Nov 11, 2014 | Uncategorized
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by admin | Sep 24, 2014 | Fairfax DUI / DWI
3 Tips For Steering Clear Of DWIs Getting a DWI can have terrible consequences. From hefty fines to time in jail, the process isn’t pleasant. With stringent laws in place regarding driving under the influence, the best course of action is often avoidance. Wise individuals should take necessary precautions to avoid the risk of getting a DWI, such as the following: Call a cab. The easiest way to handle the problem of getting home while intoxicated is to simply call a cab. This provides assured safety and self-reliance, creating a situation where everyone has a smaller chance of being involved in an accident. Assign a dedicated designated driver. If out with a group of friends, assigning someone as the designated driver is always a smart move. This removes the cost of a cab, yet still keeps everyone free from the worry of someone who has been drinking from driving. Wait until sober. Finally, waiting until you sober up is always an option. This works best when drinking while at a friend’s house. Many people plan to stay overnight in advance, thus removing any chance of being on the road while inebriated. Unfortunately, sometimes it’s too late for preventative measures. Knowing what to do once you’re pulled over is key in avoiding increased fines and possible jail time. Remember these tips: Keep your cool. Be polite and courteous with police officers, but admit to nothing. Don’t be confrontational or disrespectful. This will only make the situation worse. Remember your rights. There is no requirement to perform the physical, roadside sobriety tests. You have the right to politely refuse them. Hire...
by admin | Sep 3, 2014 | Fairfax DUI / DWI
Whether you have to appear in court for a traffic violation, a theft, or even a violent crime, there are certain rules, both written and unwritten, you should follow. While some people choose to represent themselves and some choose to work with a Fairfax criminal lawyer, the same principles apply for making a positive impression. The following guidelines will help you make a good first impression in court: Look as professional as possible. The court may not enforce a strict dress code, but most court personnel opt for formal dress, which sets the standard. A disheveled appearance in court communicates a lack of respect and shows a disregard for the severity of the situation. Also, try to make arrangements to leave children elsewhere during your court appearance. Maintain good manners. Treat every individual you meet with respect, and remember to refer to the judge using the proper title, “Your Honor.” Remember, staff members work together to monitor your conduct, so thoughtless actions or comments will be taken into account. Be on your best behavior. Don’t rush to tell your story. Ideally, you will be accompanied by a Fairfax criminal lawyer, which means you won’t have to speak much in court. If you decide to represent yourself, consider conferring with a lawyer beforehand to make sure you are prepared to speak eloquently, patiently, and clearly during your appearance. Be confident. Take time to prepare for your appearance and maintain a positive attitude throughout the proceedings. While the final orders might not be exactly what you hoped for, maintaining your dignity is an important part of a court appearance. Seeking legal...
by admin | Jul 23, 2014 | Fairfax DUI / DWI
Don’t Be Stuck With a DUI: How a Lawyer Can Help Things don’t always go as planned in life, and sometimes we end up in trouble without meaning to get there. If you are facing charges for a DUI or DWI, it may be tempting to represent yourself in court. But without the knowledge of a Fairfax DUI lawyer, you could do yourself more harm than good. Some of the many reasons a Fairfax DUI lawyer or Fairfax DWI lawyer is the wisest choice when it comes to dealing with these charges include: Professional Advice. According to NOLO, one of the simplest things a Fairfax DUI lawyer can do is provide excellent, professional advice. Contrary to popular belief, no two DUIs or DWIs are the same. A professional can look at the specifics of the incident and tailor their advice to meet those needs. It’s one thing to do research as background information, but it could be hazardous to depend on that to build a defense in court. A Fairfax DUI attorney can decide whether it’s better to plead guilty or not and what courses of action to take to better confront the court system. With this advice in hand, a successful case against a DUI or DWI charge will be much more likely. Plea Bargaining. A plea bargain occurs when there is something about the case that warrants another look. With the help of a Fairfax DWI lawyer, it may be possible to argue the results were inconclusive or there was no untoward behavior taking place. As a result, the charge may be dropped to a lesser offense,...
