Author Archives: Jay Butchko
Three Variations of Larceny Under Virginia Criminal Law
Virginia criminal law defines larceny as the theft of property or other things of value. Larceny can happen “from the person” — meaning the perpetrator took it directly from the owner, like a pickpocket. Or larceny can happen “not from the person,” where the theft occurs when the owner is not present. In either… Read More »
Virginia Laws Against Aggressive, Improper & Reckless Driving
The Commonwealth of Virginia has a vested interest in promoting safe driving on all highways and other roads within state boundaries. When drivers operate their vehicles dangerously, or even recklessly, it can result in harm to other people or property damage. Consequently, Virginia law prohibits any person from engaging in aggressive, improper, or reckless… Read More »
Evaluating Three Common Drug Crimes Under Virginia Law
Often referred to collectively as drug crimes, Virginia law establishes a general prohibition against the possession or distribution of controlled substances. In general, the penalties increase for possession of more dangerous substances, like heroin or cocaine. Substances like these are generally classified in Schedule I or II, due to their potential for harm or… Read More »
Virginia Law Enforcement Arrests D.C. Woman For Third DUI Offense
The Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office arrested a Washington, D.C. woman for an alleged third offense of driving under the influence (DUI), according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. This incident occurred in Sterling, Virginia at approximately 8 a.m. on Sunday, April 5th. The 57-year-old D.C. woman ran a red light at the intersection… Read More »
Exploring Four Virginia Laws Involving Dangerous Weapons
Owing to the dangerousness of firearms and similar weapons, the Commonwealth of Virginia has strict laws against various weapon crimes. Often referred to generally as dangerous weapons, there are state laws against possession or use in various places and settings, such as churches, courthouses, and airports. There are also laws against using dangerous weapons… Read More »
Virginia Reckless Driving Hospitalizes Two with Severe Injuries
A 34-year-old man from Broadway, Virginia, faces criminal charges for reckless driving after causing an accident that hospitalized two victims with severe injuries, according to an article by ABC affiliate WHSV. This incident occurred just before 3 a.m. on Monday, April 6th, in Rockingham County on Interstate 81. The Broadway man was driving his… Read More »
Reopening Churches, Businesses and Nonprofit Organizations as Coronavirus Restrictions Begin to Lift
Reopening Churches, Businesses and Nonprofit Organizations as Coronavirus Restrictions Begin to Lift Read More >> By H. Robert Showers, Esq. and William R. Thetford, Esq.
Conducting Youth/Children Ministry in a Digital Age
By Robert Showers, Esq. and Justin R. Coleman, Esq. With the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting stay at home executive orders being issued by various states, churches have had to look to new ways to minister the Gospel to its members and attendees. With online streaming and digital video conferencing, churches are able to connect… Read More »
Virginia Governor Signs New Law Decriminalizing Marijuana Possession
Starting July 1st, a first offense of marijuana possession will no longer be considered a drug crime in Virginia, according to an article by ABC affiliate WHSV. When the governor signed House Bill 972 into law, it effectively decriminalized marijuana possession across Virginia. The house bill incorporates several other measures and is the same… Read More »
What are the Consequences of Refusing a DUI Test in Virginia?
In order to demonstrate that a person was actually driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs in Virginia, the authorities must conduct a DUI test. These tests can measure levels of alcohol or drug consumption using the driver’s breath or blood. In certain cases, drivers refuse to submit to the DUI test,… Read More »
