The situation you have described is not uncommon. The cooperation of the alleged victim in a domestic violence case isn't always necessary; not "wanting legal action" does not prevent the prosecutor from calling the alleged victim as a witness at trial. In some cases where no helpful... View More

Although your boyfriend does not have to be the owner of the vehicle or of the firearm in order to be charged and possibly convicted of the offense, your explanation does present a possible defense or at least mitigation of the offense. Your explanation, copies of records (if available) of your... View More

Standard (commonly referred to as "model") jury instructions are typically used in criminal jury trials in Virginia. In my experience, the model jury instruction covering inconsistent prior statements of a witness will advise the jury that the purpose of any prior statement of the witness... View More

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answered on Sep 3, 2023

While I can offer legal perspectives based on U.S. law, I cannot guarantee how Mexican authorities will treat your entry given your misdemeanor convictions. Being transparent and following Mexico's entry requirements will be crucial. If you encounter issues, it would be best to consult the... View More

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answered on Sep 3, 2023

Mexico generally allows U.S. tourists to enter without a criminal background check for short visits, but it is within the discretion of the border agents to allow or disallow entry. To minimize issues, make sure you have all required documentation in order, including a valid U.S. passport. If you... View More

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answered on Sep 1, 2023

n many jurisdictions, clerks of the court and court personnel are responsible for handling sensitive information and maintaining the confidentiality of individuals involved in legal proceedings, including victims of crimes. If a clerk of the court were to release a victim's residential address... View More

There is a very slight possibility that you could use this to get the case dismissed. However, it is likely still possible for the prosecutor to bring the original forensic scientist into court to clear up that issue. It will depend on if the judge considers it a curable error (most errors are... View More

There is likely probable cause to charge you under Virginia Code Section 18.2-371 for rendering the child in need of supervision. There may be additional charges. It sounds like the charging decision is left to the discretion of the prosecutor in that jurisdiction. If charged, you should... View More

If he is charged with the criminal offense of strangulation in Virginia, the totality of the evidence will have to prove, beyond any reasonable doubt, that he in fact strangled you. In Virginia, "strangled" occurs when someone "impedes the blood circulation or respiration of another... View More

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answered on Jul 20, 2023

Now, generally, law enforcement may not search your home or belongings without a valid search warrant issued by a judge, unless there's an exception to the warrant requirement. However, if your husband is on probation, he may have agreed to certain conditions, which could allow law enforcement... View More

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answered on Jul 7, 2023

I'm sorry to hear about the situation. If you believe that an inmate's constitutional rights and due process are being violated, it is important to seek legal assistance from an attorney who specializes in civil rights or criminal defense. They can provide guidance and advice based on the... View More

There are often multiple hearings when a person is accused of a crime. The first hearing will likely simply be to determine what the individual is going to do about getting a lawyer. Eventually, and before there is an actual trial, he will be able to know what exactly he is accused of doing and who... View More

The Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court ("JDR") maintains original jurisdiction for these types of claims if the victim/offender cohabitate together. There is no substantive difference between General District Court and JDR in the prosecution of these offenses. The initial... View More

In Virginia the Commonwealth Attorney decides whether to drop the charges in court. That said, they will listen to your wishes as the "victim." Under the Va code and the Va constitution they have to seek your input before disposing of a case. You will get a chance to tell them you want... View More

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answered on Mar 19, 2023

It is possible for a federal court to consider a defendant's conduct while on bail or pretrial release when imposing a sentence for a separate offense. If your boyfriend has been charged with violating the conditions of his release and/or for his involvement in a hit and run, these charges... View More

It is unlawful for a felon to be in possession of a firearm unless they have had their right to possess a firearm restored. Possession can be actual or constructive and is very fact specific. Actual is obvious, but constructive can be tricky. In court, the questions considered for constructive... View More

Virginia law criminalizes the possession of a sawed-off shotgun under Virginia Code Section 18.2-300. In Virginia, possession can be actual or constructive. You should consult with an attorney to discuss the facts of your particular case and any defenses you may have. Its not wise to post... View More

It sounds like you have already posted a bond and are scheduled for an arraignment. An arraignment is typically to determine if you have retained an attorney or need one to be appointed for you. You should not have a separate bond hearing unless the Commonwealth has filed a motion to revoke your... View More

No, ‘unless’ either of you are accused of being a part of the criminal scheme. If so, you can be charged, indicted, arrested, and possibly convicted. That may get you deported!

If your mother is involved in a crime, you ‘do not’ have an affirmative responsibility to report her to... View More

A class 1 misdemeanor carries a range of punishment of 0-12 months in jail and a fine of $0-2500 if you're found guilty. It does not seem like you had the intent to defraud so an attorney should be able to get this dismissed for you I would think.