Alexandria Criminal Lawyer
Being prosecuted for a criminal offense is a serious matter because a conviction can have lasting effects on your life. This is why it is imperative to retain an Alexandria criminal lawyer to help you fight these charges. Whether you are facing charges for an offense related to drugs, assault, or theft, having an attorney on your side means that someone could protect your rights and look out for your best interests. Reach out to a seasoned attorney today.
Types of Criminal Offenses
Criminal offenses fall into a multitude of categories depending on which section of state code a defendant allegedly violated. Regardless of the particular allegations, law enforcement takes these crimes seriously as some have the potential to endanger other civilians. A skilled criminal defense lawyer in Alexandria could help an accused individual prepare their case depending on their specific charges.
Crimes Involving Property or Other People
State law prohibits certain actions and behaviors against another person or their property. The penalties associated with these types of charges vary depending on whether the particular offense is a misdemeanor or felony. Some examples of offenses against a person or their property may include:
- Violent attacks
- Robbery
- Sexually based crimes
- Trespassing
- Theft of property or goods – including burglary
- Arson
Drug Offenses
The state code categorizes drug offenses as crimes involving health and safety. Some examples of prohibited offenses involving drugs may include:
- Unlawful possession of marijuana or a controlled substance
- Transporting drugs into the state
- Manufacturing, selling or distributing narcotics
Other Potential Charges
In addition to drug offenses and crimes against other people or their property, state law outlines several other categories of offenses for which a person could face criminal charges and prosecution, such as disorderly conduct or conspiracy. An Alexandria criminal attorney also could prepare a defense for crimes involving forgery, solicitation, or perjury.
Potential Penalties
The penalties for a criminal offense vary depending on the specific charge and its classification. Additionally, individuals with prior convictions for similar offenses could face harsher consequences. For instance, illegal possession of marijuana may be punishable by no more than 30 days in jail and a $500 fine unless it is a second or subsequent conviction, in which case law enforcement may charge and penalize this offense as a Class 1 misdemeanor.
Code of Virginia §18.2-11 establishes the penalties for misdemeanor convictions. Class 1 misdemeanors may be punished by 12 months in jail and a fine up to $2,500, while the penalty for Class 2 misdemeanors may include up to six months incarceration and $1,000 fine. Class 3 and Class 4 misdemeanors may involve fines up to $500 and $250 respectively.
Felony convictions typically include a term of imprisonment as well as fines. Code of Virginia §18.2-10 outlines these consequences by classification. For example, the penalty for Class 2 felonies is imprisonment for 20 years to life and a fine up to $100,000, whereas the penalty for Class 6 felonies is one to five years in prison and a $2,500 fine. An Alexandria lawyer with experience in criminal cases could answer questions about the penalties associated with a specific offense and work to minimize these potential consequences.
How an Alexandria Criminal Attorney Could Help
Preparing a strong legal defense to criminal charges can be challenging without a thorough understanding of the law. An Alexandria criminal lawyer could provide this critical legal assistance when building your case and protecting your constitutional rights. Speak with an attorney about your case today.
