Author Archives: Jay Butchko
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 »
What is a Controlled Substance Under Virginia Law?
It is a drug crime under Virginia law to possess, distribute, or manufacture certain dangerous substances, such as heroin or cocaine. Referred to legally as “controlled substances,” these compounds are often dangerous, and generally devoid of medical benefit. Accordingly, there are strict penalties for the possession, distribution, and manufacture of controlled substances, ranging from… Read More »
Important Developments Implementing the CARES ACT and FFCRA: How the PPP, EIDL, and Tax Credits Are Impacting Businesses, Churches, and Nonprofits
By William R. Thetford, Esq. and H. Robert Showers, Esq. Last Updated: April 29, 2020. Note: This is the subject of a rapidly evolving landscape. Please stay tuned for updates as they become available. This article updates our series of articles on the CARES Act concerning the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Emergency Injury… Read More »
Virginia Man Pleads Guilty to DUI & Involuntary Manslaughter
A Virginia man pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter and driving under the influence (DUI) in connection with a fatal accident last year, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. The accident in question occurred on the morning of January 4, 2019, near the intersection of Morrisonville and Mountain roads. The Virginia man apparently… Read More »
ONLINE MEETINGS FOR CHURCHES AND NONPROFITS FAQs
By Robert Showers, Esq. and William Thetford, Esq. Consider the following common scenarios for churches and nonprofits in this online stay at home world: 1) A member organization (church or nonprofit with members) requires a membership meeting by a certain date each year to pass the annual budget and elect new leaders. The… Read More »
ESTATE PLANNING 101: Wills vs. Trusts, What’s the Difference?
By: Gigi B. Lawless Most people are familiar with the term, “Will” (or, “Last Will and Testament”). Less people may be familiar with the concept of a “Trust.” And, fewer still, will be able to tell you the difference between the two. Both Wills and Trusts, however, are important estate planning documents. And, whether… Read More »
Mixed Reviews on Criminal Justice Reforms in Virginia
After the Democratic Party took control of the Virginia legislature, many pundits expected broad and sweeping changes to the state criminal justice system, according to an article by the Associated Press. By now, midway through the first legislative session, however, there are mixed feelings about reform progress. On one hand, Democratic Party leaders are… Read More »
Legal Primer: Reckless Driving Under Virginia Criminal Law
In the interest of public health and safety, the Commonwealth of Virginia imposes strict rules and regulations for driving conduct. Accordingly, Virginia laws against reckless driving impose severe penalties for dangerous driving conduct, including, but not necessarily limited to: confinement, fines, and license suspension. What is Reckless Driving in Virginia? Code of Virginia Section… Read More »