Blog Posts in 2017

What Is Public Intoxication?

In the state of Virginia, it is illegal to be intoxicated by alcohol or drugs in public. According to Virginia Code section 18.2-388, “If any person profanely curses or swears or is intoxicated in public, whether such intoxication results from alcohol, narcotic drug or other intoxicant or drug of whatever nature, he shall be deemed guilty of a Class 4 misdemeanor.” Public intoxication in Virginia ...

How Do I Build a Legal Defense for Possession with Intent Charges?

Have you been charged with possession of illegal drugs with the intent to sell? State and federal laws regarding the possession and distribution of illegal drugs differ. Usually, the federal government enforces stricter drug sentencing guidelines. However, drug possession defenses are somewhat universal across state lines. Here are a few potential defenses that have been used in possession with ...

How Does a Conviction Impact My Employment Prospects?

Even after you’ve served your sentence, a criminal conviction can continue to follow you around and prevent you from rebuilding a stable life. One of the most important aspects of life that a criminal record can impact is your employability. While not every employer is going to run a background check, most will. This is because a background check can provide a wide range of information about your ...

What Is the Definition of Consent in Virginia?

In Virginia, rape and sexual battery are defined as “sexual intercourse or abuse, respectively, of a complaining witness against their will.” The state does not require “freely given consent” or “affirmative consent” in its definition of rape. At the age of 18, a person is completely able to consent to sexual acts in the state of Virginia. Persons of younger ages may be considered “consenting” ...