Leesburg Criminal Attorney
Were you arrested and charged with a crime in Leesburg, VA? Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony crime, the prospect of being convicted is scary.
A crime is defined as an act or omission violating state or federal criminal laws. Being convicted for committing a crime in Virginia can result in harsh consequences. You could lose your freedom and face hefty fines. Moreover, it can result in you having a permanent criminal record. Beyond the legal consequences, being convicted of a crime can also have personal and professional ramifications. Your reputation and personal relationships may be jeopardized. You may also face difficulty finding employment or obtaining loans.
In light of such far-reaching consequences, facing criminal charges without hiring a criminal lawyer may not be a good idea. Consider hiring a Leesburg criminal attorney today. Criminal defense lawyers from Scrofano Law PC are here to help you and have a track record of successfully protecting the rights of people accused of crimes.
How Does Virginia Criminal Law Work
Criminal cases in the Leesburg area are prosecuted by the Loudoun County Commonwealth Attorney’s office. There isn’t a separate attorney’s office to prosecute crimes solely in the Leesburg area.
A criminal offense in Leesburg, VA, can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony. Misdemeanor crimes are typically less serious than felonies. These offenses are punishable by up to a year of jail time, a possible fine or both.
Felonies, on the other hand, are severe crimes punishable by imprisonment in a state prison for at least one year and a possible fine.
Section §18.2-9 of the Code of Virginia categorizes both misdemeanor and felony offenses into classes for sentencing and punishment.
Classification of Misdemeanors
Misdemeanors are classified into four classes:
A Class 1 misdemeanor includes offenses that carry potential jail time of up to 12 months or a fine of up to $2,500 or both.
A Class 2 misdemeanor can lead to imprisonment of up to six months, a fine not exceeding $1,000, or both.
A Class 3 misdemeanor typically incurs fines of not more than $500.
A Class 4 misdemeanor is punishable with a fine not exceeding $250.
Classification of Felonies
Felonies are organized into six classes:
A Class 1 felony includes the most serious offenses. If convicted, an individual can face imprisonment for life and heavy fines of up to $100,000.
A Class 2 felony may lead to life imprisonment or a term not less than 20 years, accompanied by a fine of up to $100,000.
A Class 3 felony entails imprisonment of no less than 5 years and not more than 20 years, along with a fine of up to $100,000.
A Class 4 felony results in imprisonment for a period ranging from 2 to 10 years, plus a fine of up to $100,000.
A Class 5 felony can result in imprisonment for 1 to 10 years or, at the jury/court’s discretion (where a case is tried without a jury), confinement for up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, or a combination of these penalties.
A Class 6 felony may lead to imprisonment for 1 to 5 years or, as determined by the jury/court (where a case is tried without a jury), confinement for up to 12 months in jail and a fine of up to $2,500, or both.
No matter which crimes you are charged with, neither misdemeanor nor felony charges should be taken lightly. Potential consequences can be devastating. Moreover, some crimes can be prosecuted as either a misdemeanor or a felony, depending on the particular circumstances of the crime. An experienced criminal lawyer can explain the criminal charges and the potential penalties you may face if convicted.
How Can A Leesburg Criminal Defense Lawyer Help?
People facing criminal charges have certain constitutional rights throughout the criminal procedure. They have the right to a fair trial and to be presumed innocent until the prosecution proves they are guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. They also have the right to remain silent and to hire a defense attorney.
You may not know all your rights as a defendant, but a criminal defense lawyer does. As such, criminal attorneys are crucial components of the justice system.
Criminal defense attorneys from Scrofano Law PC can protect your rights in the following ways:
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Prevent law enforcement officers and prosecutors from violating your legal rights and ensuring due process.
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Offer legal advice and knowledge of the criminal justice system.
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Investigate the case, gather evidence, and build a strong defense strategy.
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Negotiate with prosecutors to potentially reduce charges or penalties.
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Represent you in court, presenting arguments and cross-examining witnesses.
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Advise on plea bargains, potential consequences, and legal options.
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Provide support and guidance through a challenging legal process, minimizing stress and uncertainties.
The Scrofano Law PC team can evaluate every detail of a case and advise whether a bench trial or jury trial may be in your best interest. Additionally, we can make every effort to develop a strong defense strategy. Presenting arguments that can create a reasonable doubt is just one way to do that.
Scrofano Law PC Practice Areas
Criminal defense lawyers at Scrofano Law PC are experienced in defending individuals against a range of criminal charges, including:
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Assault
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Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
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Domestic Violence
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Drug Possession
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Hit-and-Run
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Indecent Exposure
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Prostitution
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Reckless Driving
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Sexual Assault
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Theft
We have handled numerous criminal cases, plea bargains, and bench and jury trials. Let us use our experience and knowledge of the legal system to fight your charges.
Facing Criminal Charges? Contact Scrofano Law PC!
You are probably concerned if you or your loved ones are facing criminal charges. Experienced Virginia criminal lawyers from Scrofano Law PC may be able to help. With Gretchen Taylor Pousson and Matthew Kensky of Scrofano Law PC on your side, you can rest assured that your future lies in good hands. Their legal prowess and unique experience can help you understand the complexities of your case.
Contact a criminal defense attorney from Scrofano Law PC today to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your case!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can You Be Convicted if You Didn’t Know You Have Committed a Crime?
Yes, you can. Not knowing the law doesn’t make you less guilty of the crime. This is called a “mistake of law,” and it’s not considered a viable defense to criminal charges. A mistake of fact, on the other hand, can be used as a criminal defense more successfully.
Can I Handle a Criminal Charge Without an Attorney?
It is not mandatory to be represented by a lawyer in a criminal case. However, many things can go wrong without an experienced and reliable professional by your side. You may inadvertently admit guilt to the police or reveal incriminating information. These mistakes can jeopardize your future and result in more significant penalties.
A criminal defense attorney can help you avoid making such mistakes and ensure you are getting fair treatment and trial.