Locate Attorneys for Criminal Defense in Virginia
Map courtesy of Geology.com except where noted.
Virginia became a U.S. state in 1788 and was the 10th state to join the Union. The state of Virginia is formally known as "The Commonwealth of Virginia", and its official nickname is the "Old Dominion". Occasionally, people refer to Virginia as "the Mother of Presidents", as 8 U.S. presidents were born in the state.
As one of the original U.S. colonies, Virginia's legal system is also one of the oldest in the country. For example, Virginia's legislature, the Virginia General Assembly, is the oldest legislature operating in the Western hemisphere. The oldest police force in the U.S., the Virginia Capitol Police, is also located in Virginia. Virginia has a well-developed system of case laws, as well as a body of statutes known as the Code of Virginia.
Legal claims in Virginia are processed in the state judicial system, consisting of the state Supreme Court, the Court of Appeals of Virginia, and the General District and Circuit Courts. Many landmark cases have arisen out of Virginia, such as Loving v. Virginia (1967), an important anti-segregation case. Another frequently cited Virginia case is Atkins v. Virginia (2002), which involved the 8th Amendment ban on cruel and unusual punishment.
Lawyers in Virginia represent clients in all types of legal claims. Although most of these are processed at the trial court level, Virginia lawyers also file appeals through the state's appeal system. A Virginia attorney can assist you by answering legal questions and providing much-needed representation in court.
Criminal Defense in Virginia
Criminal Defense in Virginia is handled by both Public Defenders and Private Criminal Defense Attorneys in Virginia.
If you do not have the money to afford a Private Criminal Defense Attorney, a Public Defender will be appointed to you by the court. If you can afford a private attorney, most courts will require you to retain private counsel, or pay the government for your assigned lawyer according to what you can manage. Keep in mind that switching lawyers in the middle of a case is very difficult, so choose carefully who your lawyer will be in Virginia the first time.
Find Defense Attorneys and Law Firms in the Largest VA Cities
Facing Criminal Charges in Virginia?
If you have, then it is important to talk with the right criminal defense lawyer in Virginia for your case.
