Loudoun County Criminal Lawyer

Filing Criminal Cases in Loudoun County

A criminal prosecution typically starts when a criminal offense is committed and gets reported. The police will then investigate. They will identify the facts and likely suspects and locate possible witnesses. Depending on the potential offense, the officer either issues a Virginia uniform summons, which is like a ticket, or asks a judicial officer, usually a magistrate, for a warrant of arrest or summons.

Criminal cases are brought by the Commonwealth of Virginia. The Circuit Court, General District Court, and the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court hear criminal cases.

The Circuit Court holds jurisdiction over felony and misdemeanor trials, as well as appeals for misdemeanors from the District Court. In addition, it handles cases of juveniles aged 14 and above facing felony charges and may adjudicate juvenile criminal cases transferred from the Juvenile District Court.

Conversely, the General District Court primarily deals with misdemeanor cases and serves as the venue for preliminary hearings related to felonies.

Meanwhile, the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court focuses on matters involving juveniles and families, ensuring confidentiality for all cases heard within its jurisdiction.

What Rights Do You Have Before and During an Arrest?

In order to determine your involvement, the police must investigate before you are arrested. They will gather evidence, confirm how the crime was committed, and decide whether there is sufficient evidence to obtain an arrest warrant.

The police must respect your constitutional rights throughout the investigation process. You have the right to remain silent and not speak to anyone. If they ask you questions about the case, politely tell them you will only speak with them if you’re with your criminal defense lawyer.

During a custodial interrogation, police officers are required to inform you of your Miranda rights if they intend to use your statements as evidence in court. You have the right to remain silent, and anything you say can be used against you in a court of law. You also have the right to an attorney, and if you cannot afford one, the court may appoint a public defender for you. It is advisable to remain calm during an arrest and avoid resisting or interfering with law enforcement officers.

It is also possible for you to get arrested at the crime scene. In this case, you will be taken straight to detention. In Loudoun County, this will typically be at the Loudoun County Adult Detention Center.

Contact a criminal lawyer in Fairfax, VA, as soon as possible for assistance with your criminal charges.

• Insanity

• Self-defense

• Illegal arrest

• Inadmissible evidence

• Violation of constitutional rights

• In defense of another person or property

• Duress, fear, or intimidation

• Lack of intent

• Violation of the Virginia statute of limitations

Depending on your unique circumstances, our defense strategy will be different. Call us to schedule a free case evaluation.

Contact Gretchen Taylor Pousson and Matthew Kensky of Scrofano Law PC to Discuss Your Defense Strategy

If you’re facing criminal charges, it’s hard not to panic and worry. However, you don’t have to face them alone. We can guide you through the criminal law process, ensuring you have a strong defense and receive a fair trial.

Our criminal defense lawyers at Scrofano Law, PC, are here to assist you in navigating the criminal justice system. We understand facing criminal charges can be overwhelming, which is why we are here to help guide you through the process and protect your rights.

Over the years, we have assisted clients throughout Virginia, including Fairfax County, Loudoun County, Arlington County, and Prince William County.

Contact our firm today to arrange a consultation with experienced criminal defense attorneys Gretchen Taylor Pousson and Matthew Kensky.