Arlington Attorneys

What Types of Criminal Defense Cases Do We Handle?

When facing criminal charges, it's crucial to have a skilled and knowledgeable legal advocate in your corner. At Lawrence, Smith & Gardner, our criminal defense lawyers are well-versed in Virginia's laws and court procedures, and we're dedicated to safeguarding your rights throughout the legal process.

Our Arlington County criminal defense attorneys can help you with a wide range of criminal cases, including:

• Assault: Assault is a crime involving intentional physical harm or the threat of bodily harm to another person. It can be charged as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the harm inflicted and the laws of the jurisdiction. Assault may or may not involve physical contact, as the mere threat or attempt to cause harm can also be considered assault.
• Battery: Battery is often related to assault and involves the intentional physical contact with another person that results in harmful or offensive bodily contact. Unlike assault, battery requires actual physical contact to occur. It can also be charged as a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the severity of the harm caused.
• Drug Crimes: Drug charges encompass a wide range of crimes related to the possession, distribution, sale, or manufacturing of illegal drugs or controlled substances. The severity of drug charges varies depending on the type and quantity of drugs involved and the defendant's prior criminal history.
• DWI/DUI: DWI stands for Driving While Intoxicated, which means operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol or drugs, which poses a significant risk to public safety.
• Juvenile Offenses: Juvenile crimes are committed by individuals who are under the age of majority (usually 18 years old). The juvenile justice system handles these cases differently from adult criminal cases, often focusing on rehabilitation and treatment rather than punishment.
• Probation Violation: Probation violation occurs when an individual who is serving a probation sentence fails to comply with the terms and conditions set by the court. This could include failing drug tests, missing scheduled meetings with a probation officer, or engaging in additional criminal activity.
• Traffic Offenses: Traffic offenses encompass a wide range of violations, including speeding, running red lights, reckless driving, driving without a valid license, and more. These offenses are typically considered as infractions or misdemeanors, but they can result in fines, license suspensions, or even jail time in some cases.
• Theft Crimes: Theft crimes involve unlawfully taking someone else's property with the intent to permanently deprive them of it. This category includes offenses such as burglary, robbery, shoplifting, embezzlement, and larceny. The severity of the charge depends on the value of the stolen property and the use or threat of force during the crime.