One important right you have under the United States Constitution is the right to remain silent when dealing with the police. You have this right when questioned by them about any traffic, misdemeanor, or felony offense whether they are gathering information from you or questioning you as a suspect in a criminal investigation. Here is what… Continue reading Dealing With the Police: How to Invoke Your Right to Remain Silent
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You Face Serious Consequences If You Violate the Terms of Your Probation
If you are convicted of a misdemeanor or felony offense, under sentencing guidelines, the judge may give you probation. This can be a much better option than a jail or prison sentence. However, you could face harsh penalties if you violate the conditions of your probation. What Probation Involves If the judge sentences you to probation,… Continue reading You Face Serious Consequences If You Violate the Terms of Your Probation
You Face Harsh Consequences If You’re Convicted of a DUI or DWI
Driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while intoxicated (DWI) are serious criminal offenses in Virginia that carry harsh penalties if you are convicted. In addition, your driver’s license could be suspended, and you might face the long-term consequences of having a permanent criminal record. If you were arrested for a DUI or DWI, you should… Continue reading You Face Harsh Consequences If You’re Convicted of a DUI or DWI
What You Need to Know If You’ve Been Charged With Embezzlement in Chesterfield County
Embezzlement is a serious criminal offense usually committed by an employee against an employer that is punished harshly in Chesterfield County. If you are convicted of this crime, you could face incarceration and a hefty fine. In addition, you could experience many long-term consequences throughout your life because of the nature of the crime. Fortunately,… Continue reading What You Need to Know If You’ve Been Charged With Embezzlement in Chesterfield County
You Face Serious Consequences If You’re Convicted of Reckless Driving in Chesterfield County
If the police pull you over and charge you with reckless driving in Midlothian, you may mistakenly believe that you have received a traffic ticket. It would be easy to be confused because the police officer does not put you in handcuffs or take you to the police station to be booked. Instead, you receive… Continue reading You Face Serious Consequences If You’re Convicted of Reckless Driving in Chesterfield County
Red Flags: Signs Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets During Your Divorce
While some couples who decide to obtain a divorce will do so amicably and agree on all the major issues, other partners will not treat each other fairly. This is especially true when the divorce is bitter, and there are many assets to divide. Because divorce can bring out the worst in people, some will attempt… Continue reading Red Flags: Signs Your Spouse Is Hiding Assets During Your Divorce
How to Get the Child Support You Are Owed
In Virginia, both parents are expected to support their children when they divorce or split up if they’re unmarried. The noncustodial parent is required to pay child support to the custodial parent. However, some people do not take their financial responsibilities to their children seriously enough and get behind in their child support payments. If you are… Continue reading How to Get the Child Support You Are Owed
Grounds for a Virginia Divorce
If you live in Virginia and are considering filing for divorce, it is important to understand the legal grounds for divorce you must establish in order for your divorce to be granted. There are two types of divorce in Virginia: no-fault and fault divorces. Each has its own requirements that must be met in order… Continue reading Grounds for a Virginia Divorce
Your Right to Visitation With Your Grandchildren
When people decide to divorce or separate, it can also have huge ramifications in the lives of their children and other family members, especially if the divorce is contested. Grandparents who have developed a loving relationship with their grandchildren will understandably want to maintain their regular contact with them. However, when the parents are fighting… Continue reading Your Right to Visitation With Your Grandchildren
How Having High Assets Can Impact Your Divorce
Because Virginia has a large wealthy population, high asset divorces are common in the state. However, if you have a high median income or are a millionaire or billionaire, filing for divorce can be more complicated and often contested. It is important to understand the issues that could arise in your divorce, so you know… Continue reading How Having High Assets Can Impact Your Divorce
If You Were Subject to an Unlawful Search and Seizure
When you are investigated by the police or arrested for committing a crime in Virginia, you have important constitutional protections under the U.S. Constitution. The Fourth Amendment protects you against an unlawful search and seizure. If your rights were violated, you may have a strong defense in your criminal case that may result in the… Continue reading If You Were Subject to an Unlawful Search and Seizure
What You Need to Know About Military Divorces in Virginia
Any divorce can be complex and emotional. However, there are unique issues if you are in the military or married to someone who is in the military and want to obtain a divorce in Virginia. It is important to understand these differences, so you file your divorce properly and your legal rights are protected. … Continue reading What You Need to Know About Military Divorces in Virginia
Protect Your Interests in a Family Business During Your Divorce
Getting divorced is a stressful experience for most people. Your divorce may create additional stress if you own a family business with your spouse because dividing that business can be complicated. However, you can takes steps to protect your interest in the business when making your plans to file for divorce. How Is a Family… Continue reading Protect Your Interests in a Family Business During Your Divorce
White-Collar Crimes Are Serious Offenses Under Virginia and Federal Law
Although they are not considered violent crimes in the Commonwealth of Virginia, white-collar crimes are serious offenses that carry harsh penalties if you are convicted. These crimes are both state and federal offenses and are usually charged as a felony. If you have been charged with a white-collar crime, you need to retain a skilled… Continue reading White-Collar Crimes Are Serious Offenses Under Virginia and Federal Law
How Spousal Support Is Paid in Virginia
It is common in a marriage for one spouse to be financially dependent on the other. One spouse may be a stay-at-home parent, or one may work but make less money than the other. While married, this arrangement probably worked fine because you both shared in the costs of maintaining your household and lifestyle, but… Continue reading How Spousal Support Is Paid in Virginia
How a Felony Case Works in Virginia
Felonies are the most serious types of crimes. If you are convicted of a felony, you face at least one year in prison. It is essential to know how your case will move through the Virginia court system and what to expect each step of the way, so that you can protect your rights. What… Continue reading How a Felony Case Works in Virginia
How to Divide Property in a Virginia Divorce
Divorcing your spouse can be an overwhelming and challenging time. There are many decisions to make that impact your life. However, as you decide who will leave the marital home and how often each of you will be with your children, you must also consider the long-term financial consequences when you divide your property. … Continue reading How to Divide Property in a Virginia Divorce
When You’re Charged With Assault or Battery
Assault and battery are different crimes in Virginia, but these crimes are related, and the penalties for both can include prison time and fines. If you have been charged with assault, battery, or both crimes, it is important to understand the charges, your potential defenses, and why you need to work with a dedicated Richmond criminal… Continue reading When You’re Charged With Assault or Battery
How to Plan for a Divorce in Virginia
When your marriage is ending, the changes taking place can make your life feel unpredictable. However, it’s possible to stay in control of your future and make sound decisions for your life after divorce. When planning for your divorce, there are important steps to take to ensure that your divorce agreement is the way you… Continue reading How to Plan for a Divorce in Virginia
What Drivers Need to Know About Hit-and-Run Crimes in Virginia
A car accident can happen in an instant, often surprising the driver and injuring the victim. When drivers are stunned, scared, or unwilling to take responsibility for the crash, they may leave the crash scene. This is known as a hit and run. If you are convicted of leaving the scene, failing to assist accident… Continue reading What Drivers Need to Know About Hit-and-Run Crimes in Virginia
Protect Your Rights If Your Ex Violates the Child Custody or Visitation Agreement
If there are children involved when divorcing your spouse or partner, there will likely be a court-approved agreement about child custody and visitation. This agreement spells out the specific details regarding when and how often each of you sees your kids. But despite this mandate from the court, your ex may not honor it, leaving… Continue reading Protect Your Rights If Your Ex Violates the Child Custody or Visitation Agreement
What You Need to Know to Fight a Drug Possession Charge in Virginia
In order to prevent any unexpected complications or surprises in the child custody or visitation order, it is important to work with a family law attorney at Quest Law PLLC as soon as possible. Stephen Bloomquest will review your options with you, help you gather the necessary evidence, and work hard to help you achieve your goals. Together, we can look… Continue reading What You Need to Know to Fight a Drug Possession Charge in Virginia
How Best Interests of the Child Are Determined in Virginia Custody Decisions
In order to prevent any unexpected complications or surprises in the child custody or visitation order, it is important to work with a family law attorney at Quest Law PLLC as soon as possible. Stephen Bloomquest will review your options with you, help you gather the necessary evidence, and work hard to help you achieve your goals. Together, we can look… Continue reading How Best Interests of the Child Are Determined in Virginia Custody Decisions
The Virginia Judicial System
The Commonwealth of Virginia has a court system that is designed to resolve criminal, juvenile, domestic, and traffic cases fairly, quickly, and in a financially responsible way. To achieve these goals, the courts are organized into different levels—each type of court has a specific set of responsibilities. How the Virginia Court System Is Structured… Continue reading The Virginia Judicial System
Court of Appeals of Virginia
The Virginia Court of Appeals provides appellate review of final decisions of the circuit courts in domestic relations matters, appeals from a decision of an administrative agency, traffic infractions, and criminal cases (unless a death sentence has been imposed). This court also reviews appeals from the Virginia Workers’ Compensation Commission. Appeals of criminal, traffic, concealed weapons permit, and… Continue reading Court of Appeals of Virginia
Virginia Circuit Courts
Virginia’s Circuit Courts are the only trial court of general jurisdiction in the Commonwealth. Circuit courts handle the following types of cases: Civil Actions Where the monetary claim is over $4,500 but not exceeding $25,000, the circuit court has concurrent jurisdiction with the general district court Where monetary claims exceed $25,000, the circuit has… Continue reading Virginia Circuit Courts
The Virginia District Court System
Virginia’s District Court System consists of both the General District Court and the Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Courts. Throughout the 32 judicial districts in the Commonwealth, there are General District and Juvenile & Domestic Relations District Courts in every city and county. The District Court System handles the following types of cases: Misdemeanor… Continue reading The Virginia District Court System
Virginia Magistrate System
In Virginia, magistrates serve the primary function of providing police officers, sheriffs, deputies, and citizens with an unbiased review of the complaints they bring to the office. Duties include issuing arrest warrants, summonses, bonds, search warrants, subpoenas, emergency mental and medical custody orders, temporary mental and medical detention orders, emergency protective orders, and other civil processes.… Continue reading Virginia Magistrate System
General Guidelines for Making an Effective Appearance in Court
Many people are intimidated at the thought of going to court. The rules, formalities, and fear of the unknown make the whole experience stressful. Read our helpful guide for information that will help you get through your court appearance with flying colors. Never Miss Your Court Date in Virginia Going to court is not… Continue reading General Guidelines for Making an Effective Appearance in Court
Understanding the Function of Virginia’s Supreme Court
In addition to being the highest court in the Commonwealth of Virginia, the Supreme Court of Virginia is also one of the oldest judicial bodies in the United States, dating back to 1779 and serving as a model for the United States Supreme Court. The Role of the Supreme Court of Virginia Although the Supreme Court… Continue reading Understanding the Function of Virginia’s Supreme Court
What You Need to Know About Advance Medical Directives
Many people have very strong feelings about the kind of medical care they want or don’t want in the event of a life-threatening emergency. Some people want every possible life-saving technique used, while others prefer no excessive medical intervention. However, unless your wishes are in writing and known by your family, friends, and physician, decisions… Continue reading What You Need to Know About Advance Medical Directives
What You Need to Know About a Power of Attorney
Having someone who can act on your behalf in business, personal, or healthcare matters can be beneficial. There’s a relatively simple way to authorize someone to serve as an agent who can act or make decisions for you. An estate planning attorney can help you draft a power of attorney (POA) and other legal documents… Continue reading What You Need to Know About a Power of Attorney
A Comprehensive Estate Plan May Include Both Wills and Trusts
When you’re busy living your life, it can be tempting to put off making important decisions about how your estate will be handled if you die. Although it can be difficult to face the idea of your own mortality, having an estate plan is essential to protecting everything you’ve worked for. If you die without… Continue reading A Comprehensive Estate Plan May Include Both Wills and Trusts
Child and Spousal Support in a Virginia Divorce | Quest Law PLLC
Many people cite problems with money as a major reason for divorce. It is not surprising, then, that issues of monetary support after a divorce are some of the most difficult conflicts to resolve. If you are going through a divorce and believe you are owed spousal or child support—or believe you should not have… Continue reading Child and Spousal Support in a Virginia Divorce | Quest Law PLLC
Child Custody and Visitation Rights Following a Divorce in Virginia
The greatest concern for many couples getting divorced is the welfare of their children. They may not be able to continue to live together happily, but they still want their children to feel that they are part of a family that loves them. This can be a difficult task, especially if one spouse is more… Continue reading Child Custody and Visitation Rights Following a Divorce in Virginia
Our Midlothian Divorce Lawyer Will Help You Through Every Step of the Process
No one enters into a marriage with the intention of one day getting divorced, but it can happen to any couple. Priorities change, difficult circumstances arise, and feelings are lost over the course of a relationship and, for some, that means an end to the marriage. No matter what has led to you wanting to… Continue reading Our Midlothian Divorce Lawyer Will Help You Through Every Step of the Process
Grounds for Appealing a Criminal Conviction in Virginia
Unless your case was dismissed or you were found not guilty, you are probably not happy with the outcome of your criminal trial. However, simply being dissatisfied is not cause for appealing the decision in Virginia. In order to overturn a verdict, you will have to prove that your rights were violated or the case… Continue reading Grounds for Appealing a Criminal Conviction in Virginia
Juvenile Criminal Charges Require a Serious Defense Attorney
Even under the best circumstances, teenagers don’t always make the right decisions. That’s part of growing up. But if your teen is charged with a crime, the consequences could interfere with his future, including prohibiting him from graduating from high school, getting into college, or getting a job. If your minor child is arrested and… Continue reading Juvenile Criminal Charges Require a Serious Defense Attorney
Understand When You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for a Traffic Violation
Most of us have broken a traffic law at one time or another, and the consequences when you are caught can be costly, no matter how minor the offense. Fines, demerit points, higher insurance rates, and driver’s license suspensions can all take a serious toll on drivers who commit infractions. But some traffic offenses result… Continue reading Understand When You Need a Criminal Defense Attorney for a Traffic Violation
We Tackle Serious Felony Charges
While some felony charges are much more serious than others, the possibility of a felony conviction should never be taken lightly. In Virginia, punishments for a felony conviction range from a year in prison to the death penalty. Felony charges clearly cover a broad spectrum of crimes, but our experienced defense attorney will fight for… Continue reading We Tackle Serious Felony Charges
How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce
If your marriage is no longer happy and you have tried to do what you can to make it better, you may decide it is time to separate and file for divorce. This can be a very hard decision, especially if you and your spouse have children. Telling your partner that you want to end your… Continue reading How to Tell Your Spouse You Want a Divorce
Don’t Underestimate the Seriousness of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Virginia
Many people think of misdemeanors as minor offenses and may not be worried when they are charged with one. However, some misdemeanor convictions do result in jail time and significant fines and can have consequences in your personal and professional life. If you are charged with a misdemeanor, you need a skilled defense attorney just… Continue reading Don’t Underestimate the Seriousness of a Misdemeanor Conviction in Virginia