Practice Areas
Traffic - DUI - Reckless Driving
In Virginia, a charge of Reckless Driving is a class 1 misdemeanor punishable by up to 1 year in jail and/or a fine of up to $2500.00. DUI/DWI charges carry similar punishments as well as possible mandatory minimum sentences, license suspensions, and substance abuse classes. If you are charged with any traffic infraction or DUI, consider consulting with an attorney before pleading guilty. The lasting effects on your record and your insurance could greatly outweigh the cost of legal expenses. We have the experience to advise you of what you can expect to face and what you can do to minimize the impact of such charges.
Criminal Defense
If you are charged with a crime, you need someone with the experience to explain to you not only the elements of the offenses and the penalties they carry, but also the collateral effects that a conviction will carry for life. Your right to vote, your right to possess firearms, your ability to apply for student loans or government housing, as well as your criminal record can all be affected. We have the experience and knowledge to help you understand what is at stake and to defend you when you are faced with such tough circumstances. We strongly recommend consulting with an attorney immediately if you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony.
Divorce - Support - Custody
Many issues confront persons facing a divorce. Those issues include property rights, financial obligations to creditors, tax ramifications of a divorce, spousal support, and, most importantly, issues related custody of minor children. It is important and wise to educate yourself about these issues before making decisions regarding any of these issues. We strongly encourage people to have at least an initial consultation with an attorney to find out what your rights and obligations are before you make decisions that will affect the rest of your life, as well as the lives of others.
Wills & Powers of Attorney
A common misconception is that wills are only for "rich" people. Simple wills can help you avoid the common mistake of believing that your family knows your wishes or will know what to do in the event that you pass away. Wills can protect you and your loved ones if something happens. Wills can help you expressly lay out who will inherit your estate. If you do not prepare a will, a probate court could distribute your assets according to Virginia laws and not by your directions. You can also use a will to nominate a guardian for your minor children. A medical power of attorney can help protect you by appointing a family member or a trusted friend to make important decisions about your health care if you are unable to. A living will can be helpful in stating your wishes regarding life support and end of life care. Contact our firm and help protect yourself and your family in the event that the unforeseen happens to you.
Business Law
Business owners and people thinking about starting a business need legal advice on many issues. There are issues that a business owner will have to consider such as how to set up or organize the business, how to finance or acquire office space or equipment, and entering into a lease agreement. We can help review lease agreements, which often favor landlords, as well as examine contracts. We can also help you set up your corporation or partnership which can possibly help to shield your personal assets from liability. We can also help negotiate or draft contracts, represent you in settlement negotiations, or prepare your case should a trial be necessary.
Civil Litigation
The implications of a civil dispute can have a significant impact on your financial security. If you are involved in a civiil litigation or a dispute will probably need to be resolved through civil litigation, you should consult an attorney with experience and the resources to help protect your legal interests and to fight for those interests. Whether you are a plaintiff or defendant, we are prepared to effectively represent your interests in civil court. If you are a plaintiff, we will help you determine what remedies you should pursue and what damages you should seek. If you are a defendant, we will help you defend against a plaintiff’s claims, negotiate a settlement, or seek pretrial dismissal options. Civil litigation can often be costly, and we will work towards trying to minimize your expenses while we zealously represent your interests.