Being charged with a DUI or DWI in Virginia is serious. A first offense is a class 1 misdemeanor and can carry a maximum jail sentence of up to 12 months, in addition to a 12 month license suspension, and a $2,500 fine.
Needless to say, if you’ve been charged with a DUI in Virginia, you need to educate yourself on the specifics of the offense, which is why this site exists. It’s also essential that you consult with a qualified Virginia DUI lawyer.
Why I practice DUI and criminal defense:I worked in one of the most corrupt countries in the world for a few years after college. The situation eventually became so bad that a civil war began, which forced me to leave.
During my time there, I realized how important it is for the government to be accountable to the people for its actions. I wanted to be involved in that. Criminal defense allows me to play a role by helping people exercise and defend some of the most important rights we have.
The reason that that level of corruption existed, and could exist anywhere, is, in part, due to lack of accountability of the government to its people. In the United States, we certainly have corruption, but the extent is less than many places, in part, because our system of checks and balances provides avenues of recourse to the people—mostly through the courts.
I realized how important it is for the government to be accountable to the people for its actions. I wanted to be involved, and criminal defense allows me to play a role by helping individuals exercise and defend their rights.
My other reason for practicing in this field is that I believe in redemption and fairness. Not all cases involve rights violations, but criminal convictions can be devastating to individuals and their families just the same. DUI and criminal defense let me help some of my clients get a second chance, and ensure that all my clients are treated fairly from the time I get involved in the case.