Top Rated Criminal Defense Attorneys

Everyday our law firm receives countless criminal defense consultations from those who have either been charged with a crime or a serious traffic offense. One of the most common questions we hear, and it’s one that seems to take precedence over all the other questions, is “how much is the attorney fee”. In all retrospect, the price of your attorney should not be the deciding factor on what firm you choose. Our criminal and traffic retainer fees may be slightly higher than some of the other law firms, however you are ultimately receiving the sentencing you pay for. We may charge a little bit more, but that’s because we guarantee you will have a more favorable outcome than with some of these cheaper firms. A couple hundred dollars should not stand between you and your criminal record. If you or someone you know has received a criminal charge, call our top rated defense attorneys today.

Be Proactive on your Virginia License Points

As the weather gets warmer, more and more people will be up and about and driving. That means police will me more vigilant for traffic offenses. If you end up with a minor traffic ticket, that could mean points for your Virginia driver’s license. But did you know you could offset those points by taking a Virginia driver’s improvement clinic? When you successfully complete a driver’s improvement clinic, you’ll be awarded 5 driver safety points. Look up your nearest driver’s improvement clinic at https://www.dmv.virginia.gov/drivers/#clinics.asp . However, for more serious traffic offenses, it may not be in your best interest to admit guilt, as more serious traffic offenses are considered criminal misdemeanor offenses with potential jail time. Regardless of what traffic citation you’ve been charged, consult one of our experienced traffic attorneys to determine what the best plan for you may be.

How to Handle a Traffic Stop

        Being pulled over is nerve wracking for everyone. It does not matter if you think you have done anything wrong or not, we all get skittish, However, it is the way you handle the traffic stop that could either leave you with a warning, or behind bars. There are probably some questions you are asking yourself during this time, and there are a few things you need to keep in mind. 

        There is not a specific time frame for a traffic stop. While you're sitting on the side of the road, every minute that passes equates to an hour. You just need to remember the officer can take as long as he deems necessary to finish the stop as long as it is not unreasonable. Also, you do not have to agree to let the officer search your vehicle if your ask; this is part of your 4th amendment rights to protect against unreasonable searches and seizures. Simply advise the officer that you are opposing the search, but be sure to remain cool, calm, and collected during this discussion. Your attitude is your biggest advocate for yourself. In regards to your person being searched, the officer is only allowed to search you if there is reasonable suspicion for them to search you.

        If you or a family member have received a ticket in the state of Virginia and would like to speak with an experienced attorney for a free consultation, contact our office at (703) 916-1227 to schedule an appointment at one of our Virginia locations or visit us online at  http://www.portnerandshure.com/Maryland-Criminal-Defense/Maryland-DUI-DWI/Virginia-Criminal.shtml