Criminal Defense Lawyers in Warrenton, VA

Warrenton, Virginia Criminal Defense Attorneys

Facing criminal charges can be intimidating and scary. If found guilty, you could be assessed hefty fines, spend time in jail, or lose your driving privileges. Criminal charges can also affect your job and immigration status.

A Virginia criminal law attorney is essential to protect you and your legal rights. If you or a loved one is facing Virginia criminal charges, don’t hesitate to contact Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC.

We are a multi-practice criminal defense law firm serving the Warrenton area and Northern Virginia through the Piedmont Region. Our Warrenton criminal lawyers are dedicated to supporting you throughout your criminal case and will work hard to defend you and get you favorable results.

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What Is a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

Unlike civil litigation attorneys who handle non-criminal disputes, criminal defense attorneys protect the rights of people accused of committing a criminal offense and represent them throughout the criminal process. A good criminal defense attorney will investigate the specifics of the case and build solid defenses to get your charges dismissed or reduced.

Classification of Criminal Offenses

There are several types of criminal offenses, and these can be grouped into three categories:

Felonies

Felonies are the most severe crimes in Virginia. They carry punishments of over one year in prison. Under Virginia Code § 18.2-10, felonies are split into six classes with varying penalties based on severity. For example, Class 1 felonies can earn an offender lengthy prison sentences going up to life imprisonment.

Examples of felony crimes in VA include armed robbery, child pornography, certain drug offenses such as drug distribution, kidnapping, murder, malicious wounding, and certain white-collar crimes. Anyone who abets, aids, or is an accessory to a felony can also be charged.

Misdemeanors

Misdemeanors are less severe than felonies. According to Virginia Code § 18.2-11, Class 1 misdemeanors can result in a one-year jail term and a fine of $2,500, whereas Class 2 misdemeanors may carry a jail term of up to six months and a fine of $1,000. Class 3 and Class 4 misdemeanors could assess you a fine of $500 and $250, respectively.

Misdemeanors can include offenses like animal cruelty, drug possession, or reckless driving. Some crimes may be prosecuted as misdemeanors or felonies, depending on their severity and aggravating factors.

Infractions

Infractions are minor violations that result in fines rather than jail time. Examples of infractions include exceeding speed limits and operating vehicles on a highway without the proper licensing, registration, and certification. If you don’t pay the fine for an infraction, it can become a more serious problem.

What a Criminal Defense Lawyer Does

A criminal defense attorney represents those facing criminal charges. A skilled Virginia attorney with experience handling criminal defense cases can make all the difference. Self-representation may not be in your best interest, as your rights may be violated without your knowledge, and you may get overwhelmed with the legal process and its rules.

Experienced criminal lawyers do the following:

Represent clients in every step of the legal process
Investigate cases and collect evidence
Assess the validity of the charges against you
Research relevant laws and cases
Negotiate with the prosecution for plea agreements
Defend clients before judges and juries

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Criminal Cases Our Criminal lawyers Handle

At Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, we handle cases of all sizes and natures. Below are some of the types of cases our Warrenton criminal defense lawyer can represent you in:

We also represent clients in other practice areas, such as family law and personal injury. Our lawyers have a wealth of experience representing clients successfully, giving you the best chance at a favorable outcome.

How our Defense attorneys Can Help You

Our skilled VA lawyers listen to you and prioritize your interests because we know how stressful facing criminal charges is. Our Virginia criminal law practitioners will represent you throughout the legal process and work hard to obtain your anticipated results.

Whether you’re dealing with misdemeanor or felony charges, you can trust us to guide you through the complexities of the legal system. We’ll ensure you have what is needed to make informed decisions about your future.

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Why Choose Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC

Our Warrenton criminal lawyers have represented clients in various cases in Fauquier County and other areas in Northern Virginia. Our strong defense strategies and knowledge of the law have helped us get favorable outcomes for our clients.

We know every case is unique, so we approach each differently. Our attorneys have the legal experience and determination to fight for your rights and advocate for you in court. We are passionate about providing aggressive representation to protect your rights and future.

Let Ashwell & Ashwell Defense attorneys Represent You

Representing yourself in a criminal case is challenging and risky. You need experienced legal representation by a Virginia criminal lawyer or law firm to protect your legal rights.

Contact our criminal lawyers if you are arrested in Warrenton, Fauquier, or anywhere in Northern Virginia as soon as possible. They will provide professional representation and negotiate a favorable plea agreement for you.

Contact Ashwell & Ashwell, PLLC, for a free consultation today.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Criminal Case?

Facing criminal charges can lead to severe consequences. It’s essential always to seek advice and representation from an experienced attorney, as they will review your case and advise on the appropriate course of action.

What Is Probable Cause?

Probable cause is the constitutional requirement that police must meet for a search or arrest. Police need to reasonably believe an individual has committed a crime or is committing a crime before conducting a search or making an arrest.

Without probable cause, they do not have consent to search, and any evidence collected cannot be used in court.

How Long Does a Criminal Case Take?

The duration between an arrest and a case’s final resolution can significantly vary. For instance, a misdemeanor drunk driving case might be resolved within a month. On the other hand, felony cases can take years to conclude. The duration varies depending on the case type, whether a trial is needed, and several other factors.

What Is the Difference Between Civil and Criminal Litigation?

Civil litigation involves disputes between individuals or entities, while criminal litigation involves prosecuting crimes by the government. In civil litigation, the goal is to seek compensation for damages or resolution of a dispute, while in criminal litigation, the goal is to punish individuals for violating laws and to uphold justice.