What is Restitution and What Happens if I Don’t Pay It? How Does Restitution Impact My Case?

What is Restitution and What Happens if I Don’t Pay It? How Does Restitution Impact My Case?

According to Black’s Law Dictionary, restitution is defined as the return or restoration of some specific thing to its rightful owner or status; compensation for benefits derived from a wrong done to another; and also compensation or reparation for the loss caused to another. In the criminal context, the purpose of restitution is compensate or…

What is the Difference Between District Court and Circuit Court in Virginia?

What is the Difference Between District Court and Circuit Court in Virginia?

There are two types of trial courts at the local level in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Specifically, there are general district courts, which are the lower courts and there are circuit courts, which are the higher trial courts. In particular, there are two types of district courts in Virginia: the General District Courts and the…

How Long Do I Have to Appeal My Conviction?

How Long Do I Have to Appeal My Conviction?

If you are convicted of a misdemeanor in a general district court or a juvenile and domestic relations court in Virginia, you must note your appeal to the clerk’s office within ten (10) calendar days from the judgment of the court. Keep in mind that this does not mean that you have ten (10) business…

Should I Turn Myself In? What Should I Do Before I Turn Myself In?

Should I Turn Myself In? What Should I Do Before I Turn Myself In?

A commonly asked question of criminal defense attorneys is whether a person should turn himself or herself in on an outstanding warrant and what that person should do prior to submitting to authorities. Depending on many factors, a person is generally more likely to receive a bond (and be out of custody while their attorney…

Will a Deferred Disposition Show Up on My Criminal Record? Can I Get a First Offender Charge Expunged?

Will a Deferred Disposition Show Up on My Criminal Record? Can I Get a First Offender Charge Expunged?

A deferred disposition occurs when a judge enters a finding of guilt with the court but allows a person to complete certain requirements and comply with various terms and conditions in order to potentially have the charge dismissed. If the person is compliant with the court order, the charge will be dismissed. Otherwise, the person…

Will I be Charged with One Felony for Each Firearm I Possess?

Will I be Charged with One Felony for Each Firearm I Possess?

Virginia Code Section 18.2-308.2 criminalizes various firearms offenses, most notably possession of firearms by convicted felons. In addition to possession of firearms, the transportation of firearms by those convicted of felonies is also illegal. The possession of ammunition and other weapons such as stun is prohibited too. There are strict mandatory minimum sentences judges must…