Author Archives: Jay Butchko
How CARES Act Impacts Small Businesses, Churches, Nonprofits and Individuals
By William R. Thetford, Esq. and H. Robert Showers, Esq. Note: This is the subject of a rapidly evolving landscape. Please utilize this article for an overview of the Act and relevant programs and see our updates article for developments. Businesses, nonprofits and churches have faced unprecedented levels of restrictions on travel, meeting, and… Read More »
How New FMLA Changes and EPSLA Will Affect Churches and Nonprofits During the Coronavirus Outbreak throughout 2020.
By Robert Showers, Esq. and Q&A with permission of Danny Miller, Esq. March 27, 2020 The Families First Coronavirus Response Act (“Act”) has now been enacted, the second significant federal law addressing the COVID-19 pandemic. The Act is designed to provide paid leave to cushion employees who cannot work due to certain virus-related circumstances…. Read More »
What is Wrongful Termination Under Virginia Employment Law?
Wrongful termination is a legal doctrine that may apply when an employer decides to sever ties with an employee. In the Commonwealth of Virginia – which is an at-will employment state – there are few protections against termination. There are various federal and state laws, though, that prohibit discrimination and harassment, and can support… Read More »
Virginia Reckless Driving: Where Speeding Can Become Criminal
The Commonwealth of Virginia recognizes that speeding is an extremely dangerous behavior that can result in property damage, physical injury, and even death. That is why certain types of speeding can result in criminal charges for reckless driving, which features extremely harsh penalties. In most cases, reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor. If… Read More »
The Heart of the Estate Plan
By J. Vance Stallings, Esq. Of Counsel SimmsShowers Law It is often the case that estate planning attorneys and clients think of estate planning as a very practical exercise designed to pass along assets to the next generation, reduce taxes, avoid the probate process, and protect assets for creditors and litigants. And, of… Read More »
How Does Virginia Define & Punish Crimes Against Animals?
Virginia law provides a number of protections for the health and safety of animals — from companion pets like dogs or cats to livestock like cows or poultry. Any person who mistreats animals in violation of Virginia law can face severe criminal penalties, including confinement in jail and steep fines. Though the exact nature… Read More »
Virginia Teenager Faces Reckless Driving Charges After Fleeing Police
A Virginia teenager faces charges for reckless driving and other offenses after attempting to flee law enforcement in Loudoun County, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. This incident occurred on December 26th at approximately 1 a.m. in Round Hill. That is when deputies from the Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct… Read More »
Virginia Woman Arrested in Sterling for Various Drug Crimes
Loudoun County Sheriff’s deputies arrested and charged a woman from Sterling, Virginia, for various drug crimes, including possession and intent to distribute, according to an article by the Loudoun Times-Mirror. On January 17th at approximately 4 p.m., sheriff’s deputies responded to reports of loitering in a restaurant parking lot near the 45900 block of… Read More »
How Does Virginia Define & Penalize DUI/DWI?
In Virginia, the terms driving under the influence (DUI) and driving while impaired (DWI) can be used interchangeably. Virginia law does not differentiate between DUI or DWI, defining and punishing both in a substantially similar way. To understand the boundaries of this offense, the following sections will explore important definitions and punishments under Virginia… Read More »
What is the Difference Between Divorce & Annulment in Virginia?
Even though marriage is supposed to last forever, Virginia family law provides several options for a couple to end their union. In certain cases, one spouse may be able to pursue an “at-fault” divorce against the other spouse. In other cases, the spouses reach a mutual decision to pursue a “no-fault” divorce. And in… Read More »