2024
Last updated:
Our Recommended Top 18
We did the research for you!
Licensing- User Reviews
- Mystery Shopping Calls
Our goal is to connect people with the best local professionals. We scored Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Attorneys on more than 25 variables across five categories, and analyzed the results to give you a hand-picked list of the best.
330Reviewed
205Curated
18Top Picks
Learn about our selection process.
Providers
=
Featured Provider
(112)Why choose this provider?
Invictus Law serves residents of Virginia Beach and surrounding communities in a variety of practice areas. It safeguards the rights of people facing criminal charges such as DUI, assault, child p*rnography, drug possession, and domestic violence. Additionally, the firm prosecutes white-collar crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering. The team consists of former prosecutors and USMC JAGs who have the skills and experience to question the evidence, witnesses, and prosecution. Members also consider various legal options, ranging from plea bargains to jury trials.
- Embezzlement and Financial Fraud
- Misdemeanor Criminal Offenses
- Military Law
- Felony Charges
- Federal Crimes and Investigations
- ALL CRIMINAL CASES
- Drug Charges
- Courts-Martial
- Sex Crimes
- Gun Crimes
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Eric Leckie - Founder | Active | 21 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller serves as a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach. The lawyers in this firm have more than 20 years of experience and possess the knowledge to provide sound legal advice and aggressive representation for their clients. They can assist those accused of underage drinking, sexual assault, serious traffic violations, and domestic violence. Founder Daniel J. Miller is a member of the National Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.
- Assault
- Drug Crimes
- Juvenile Crimes
- Expungement
- Domestic Violence
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Daniel Miller - Founder | Active | 26 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Located in Virginia Beach, Burroughs Law Office PC has been defending clients' rights since it was founded in 2006. Its criminal defense practice takes on drug charges, trespassing charges, assault/battery cases, domestic violence, traffic offenses, and theft and larceny. A Virginia State Bar member and former assistant public defender, Lawren D. Burroughs is known for her passionate client representation. She uses her trial experience to help guide her clients to the best legal outcome for their case.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Lawren Burroughs - Principal | active | 55 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Toscano Law Group is a law firm defending the rights of people accused of being involved in the commission of crimes. It advocates on behalf of clients who are under investigation for offenses, including murder, manslaughter, securities fraud, assault, DUI, DWI, and probation violations. The firm battles gender-based discrimination by filing Title IX claims against universities. Toscano Law Group's other areas of focus include estate planning, child custody battles, and divorce filings.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Diane Toscano - Founder | active | 55 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Huff Law PLC defends individuals and businesses in the greater Portsmouth area faced with criminal charges. Its lawyers advocate for individuals indicted for fraud, drug possession, assault, embezzlement, sex abuse, and murder charges. They also seek justice for clients prosecuted for reckless driving, speed tickets, driving with no license, and DUI offenses. The firm helps foreigners in having their U.S. immigration application or petition granted. Huff Law is affiliated with the Virginia State Bar.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Huff - Co-Founder | active | 55 yrs |
| Ekaterina Huff - Co-Founder | Active | 9 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
The Law Office of Michelle Mordue Helms, Esq., is a general practice law firm in Virginia Beach, Virginia, that has been in operation since 2003. The agency focuses on criminal and traffic defense, DUI and DWI cases, and bond hearings for juveniles and adults. Attorneys provide legal representation to clients who have been charged with white-collar crimes and assault and battery, as well as concealed weapon violations and drug-related offenses.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Michelle Helms - Principal | active | 55 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Founded in 1895, Wolcott Rivers Gates is a full-service law firm serving clients in the Virginia Beach metro area. The firm defends clients charged with the full range of state and federal crimes, from driving while intoxicated to white-collar offenses. Wolcott Rivers Gates also offers legal second opinions and bond-and-release assistance. Attorney Stephen Pfeiffer was listed in the Top 40 under 40 Criminal Defense Lawyers for Virginia by the American Society of Legal Advocates.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Edward Wolcott - Partner | active | 55 yrs |
| Ronald Gates - Partner | active | 55 yrs |
| Webb Basnight - Shareholder | Active | 53 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Stallings Law Group, P.C., counsels clients in the Virginia Beach metro and the surrounding communities. It serves individuals who have been charged with different types of crimes, such as cocaine trafficking, drunk driving, marijuana possession, shoplifting, and vandalism. It helps protect their constitutional rights and minimize their negative consequences by offering legal representation. Moody E. Stallings, Jr., the attorney, founded the firm in 1979. He previously served as a Virginia State Senator and the Virginia Game Commissioner.
- Drug Crimes
- Domestic Violence
Why choose this provider?
The Law Offices of Michael S. Davis is a criminal defense firm in Virginia Beach with a strong focus on DUI/DWI-related offenses. Additional areas of practice include reckless driving, suspended license, and other traffic violations. A former law enforcement officer, Mr. Davis began practicing law in 2000. Attorney Davis is a graduate of American University's Washington College of Law, and he is a member of the Virginia Beach Bar Association and the Virginia State Bar Association.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Michael Davis - Principal | active | 55 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
Hanger Law defends clients who are facing charges for criminal offenses throughout the Virginia Beach area and beyond. Its criminal defense practice mainly focuses on traffic violation defense, handling cases surrounding driving under suspension, reckless driving, speeding, and following too closely. The firm is currently staffed by 11 lawyers who also practice in the areas of residential and commercial real estate, estate planning and administration, and corporate and business law. Founder Hunter Hanger has been featured in Coastal Virginia Magazine.
Why choose this provider?
Easton Law Group PLLC serves clients in Virginia Beach who are dealing with criminal charges, including DUI, assault, and traffic violations. The firm helps defendants achieve favorable outcomes by defending their rights, paying full attention to their crucial case details, and aggressively representing them in court. Its principal attorney, Kurt F. Easton, has had an interest in helping criminal-accused clients even before working at the Newport News Public Defender Office. Before forming Easton Law Group, Easton worked for multiple criminal defense and family law firms.
- DWI/DUI
Why choose this provider?
John Greenside, Attorney at Law, provides counsel and assistance for individuals in and around the Virginia Beach area. He handles criminal cases involving underage drinking, trespassing, and assault. The legal professional also protects the rights of clients arrested for drug crimes, reckless driving, and larceny. In addition, he offers expungement services and defends individuals accused of violating traffic laws, whether because of speeding or improper equipment. Greenside has been providing legal services for nearly 30 years.
- DWI/DUI
- Drug Crimes
Expertise.com Rating
Review Sources
- Yelp
- 5.0 (1)
Why choose this provider?
Located in Virginia Beach, Cardon Law works to defend the rights of individuals charged with criminal offenses such as assault and battery, firearms charges, drug possession, and DUI/DWI. In business for over 20 years, founding attorney David A. Cardon is available to his clients 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Mr. Cardon is a graduate of the T.C. Williams School of Law at the University of Richmond, and he is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the Virginia Beach Bar Associations.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| David Cardon - Principal | active | 55 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
The Coastal Virginia Law Firm is a full-service law firm located in Virginia Beach. It represents citizens in Virginia Beach and the Tidewater region who have been charged with or accused of crimes, including larceny, assault and battery, and misdemeanor or felony drug possession. Led by former associate public defender Brook M. Thibault, the firm ardently defends the rights of its clients as it helps them seek the best course of legal action in response to their charges.
Attorney Information
| Attorney Name | Bar Status | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Brook Thibault - Principal | Active | 18 yrs |
Why choose this provider?
With more than a decade of service, The Firm For Men exclusively represents and advocates for men in family law-related cases. The law office is locally owned and operated in Virginia Beach. Its lawyers defend clients in criminal cases, including domestic violence and marital abuse. The legal team also handles personal injury claims, DUI, and auto accidents. Jason Swango, one of the team’s attorneys, served as a Stinger air defense crewman. He also spent six years as a member of the U.S. Army Reserve.
Why choose this provider?
Sheppard & O'Brien Law Firm in Virginia Beach counsels clients facing issues in criminal defense, family, appellate, and personal injury law in the area. The firm is operated by Thomas Harper Sheppard II and William H. "Happy" O’Brien, trial lawyers with over 20 years of combined experience. It has experience defending clients in drug crimes, white-collar crimes, fraud, violent crimes, and juvenile crimes. The firm also assists in landlord-tenant law matters such as evictions and contract violations.
- DWI/DUI
- Drug Crimes
- Juvenile Crimes
Why choose this provider?
Inman & Strickler P.L.C. offers legal representation and assistance to clients in Virginia Beach. The general practice law firm attends to matters involving criminal defense, personal injury, and civil litigation cases. Its legal team handles various criminal law concerns such as misdemeanor and felony cases, including traffic offenses and DUI. One of its partner attorneys, Barry Randolf Koch, has acquired about 45 years of legal experience. He was recognized as part of America's Top 100 Criminal Defense Attorneys in 2021.
- DWI/DUI
Why choose this provider?
Parks Zeigler, PLLC, formerly known as the Law Office of Kellam T. Parks, was founded in 2012 after Parks left a large firm to pursue his plans of integrating modern technologies into law. His team serves individuals in Virginia Beach facing criminal charges, including drug possession, theft, and domestic assault. They also defend the rights of drivers with traffic-related violations. The firm's branding changed when Brandon Zeigler co-owned the practice in 2015. Since then, it has expanded to include 13 attorneys in its roster.
- Drug Crimes
- Theft & Burglary
Compare our Top Criminal Defense Attorneys
| Name | Expertise Rating | Address | Promotions | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Invictus Law | 1240 Perimeter Pkwy Ste 404, Virginia Beach, VA23454 | Call for consultation | View More | |
| The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller | 2725 Gator Street, Suite 100, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | Call for consultation | View More | |
| Burroughs Law Office, PC | 3500 Virginia Beach Blvd Ste 410, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | View More | ||
| Toscano Law Group | 2406 Princess Anne Road, Virginia Beach, VA23456 | View More | ||
| Huff Law, PLC | 11815 Fountain Way, Newport News, VA23606 | View More | ||
| Law Office of Michelle Mordue Helms, Esq. | 2697 International Parkway Parkway II, STE 106, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | View More | ||
| Wolcott Rivers Gates | 200 Bendix Rd Ste 300, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | View More | ||
| Stallings Law Group, P.C. | 3330 Pacific Ave., Suite 303 B, Virginia Beach, VA23451 | View More | ||
| The Law Offices of Michael S Davis | 4445 Corporation Ln Ste 130B, Virginia Beach, VA23462 | View More | ||
| Hanger Law | 618 Village Dr. Suite J, Virginia Beach, VA23454 | View More | ||
| Easton Law Group PLLC | 249 Central Park Ave Suite 300-120, Virginia Beach, VA23462 | View More | ||
| John Greenside Attorney at Law | 701 Independence Circle, Virginia Beach, VA23455 | View More | ||
| Cardon Law | 277 Bendix Rd Ste 130, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | View More | ||
| The Coastal Virginia Law Firm | 760 Lynnhaven Pkwy Ste 140, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | View More | ||
| The Firm For Men | 4505 Columbus St., Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA23462 | View More | ||
| Sheppard & O’Brien Law Firm | 613 Virginia Beach Blvd, Suite B, Virginia Beach, VA23451 | View More | ||
| Inman & Strickler P.L.C. | 575 Lynnhaven Parkway, Suite 200, Virginia Beach, VA23452 | View More | ||
| Parks Zeigler, PLLC | 4768 Euclid Road, Suite 103, Virginia Beach, VA23462 | View More |
FAQs
What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
The non-emergency contact number for the Virginia Beach Police Department is (757) 385-5000.
Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Virginia Beach, Virginia?
To obtain a copy of the police report related to your case in Virginia Beach, you can access the police department's ePRO system at https://eprodmz.vbgov.com/MainUI/Incidents/IncidentsMain.aspx. It usually takes at least seven days from the reporting date for the incident to be entered into their records management system.
How bad is your reckless driving ticket in Virginia Beach?
A reckless driving ticket in Virginia Beach is a criminal offense classified as a Class 1 misdemeanor. You could face up to 12 months in jail and/or $2,500 in fines. It could also result in devastating consequences to your insurance premiums, driving records, and potential employment opportunities. For comparison, other Class 1 misdemeanors in Virginia include domestic assault, DUI, hit-and-run, and marijuana distribution. You should consult a criminal defense attorney familiar with seeking alternatives to a reckless driving conviction.
What should you do after an arrest in Virginia Beach?
After you have been arrested in Virginia Beach, you should remember that you have the right to remain silent and to an attorney. You could face the following penalties after a criminal arrest:
- Jail time
- Probation
- Substance abuse counseling
- Fines
- Community service A criminal defense attorney can fight for your rights and help you understand the charges you are facing. You should try to keep track what is happening and what is being said. Your attorney might use the information you get to support your case.
What can you expect from a DUI case in Virginia Beach?
If you have been arrested for a first-time DUI incident in Virginia Beach, you will be taken to the police station. You will be asked to undergo a breathalyzer or blood test. This procedure should take place within three hours of your driving. If you refuse to take the test, it can be used against you in court and can result in a one-year license suspension. If you are arrested for another DUI within 10 years, the refusal to undergo either of the tests is considered a misdemeanor.
What constitutes a public intoxication charge in Virginia Beach?
A public intoxication charge in Virginia Beach classifies as a Class 4 misdemeanor punishable by up to a $250 fine. The two unique aspects of this offense are being in public and being intoxicated. A criminal defense lawyer can use the following strategies to help your case:
- Sobriety
- No harm, no foul
- Led into the public
- General mitigation
What is the statute of limitations for criminal offenses in Virginia Beach?
In Virginia Beach, there is no statute of limitations for felony cases, such as capital murder, burglary with a deadly weapon, malicious wounding, arson of an occupied building, battery on a person, and animal cruelty. The deadline for filing a case against a misdemeanor suspect is within one year. Examples of misdemeanor crimes include drug paraphernalia possession, domestic violence, property destruction, and public intoxication.
What does a criminal defense lawyer do?
Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circ*mstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.
How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?
Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:
Misdemeanors
- Petty theft
- Public intoxication
- Simple assault
- Disorderly conduct
- Vandalism
- Reckless driving
Felonies
- Murder
- Rape
- Kidnapping
- Aggravated assault
- Specific types of fraud
- Possession of certain types of drugs
What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?
The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circ*mstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.
What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?
All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.
Why hire a criminal defense attorney?
Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circ*mstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.
Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?
Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circ*mstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.
Related Articles
Featured
What Happens When Evidence Is Obtained Illegally?
This article explains illegally obtained evidence, its impact on trials, and what criminal defense attorneys can do to defend...
You might also like...
The Four Major Criminal Defenses
Steps in the Criminal Trial Process
What is the Romeo and Juliet Law? [2024]
What’s the Difference Between a Civil Trial and a Criminal Trial?
Crimes Against Animals
Crimes Against Property
What to Expect at Arraignment
What Your Lawyer Wants You to Know About Plea Bargains
Crimes Against People
Your Rights When Interacting With Law Enforcement
Can I Represent Myself in a Criminal Trial?
What Happens if Police Violate Miranda Rights?
Can I Get My Criminal Records Expunged?
Criminal Trial Timelines and Outcomes: What to Expect [2024]
What Is the Standard of Proof in Criminal Cases?
Bail 101: Getting Out of Law Enforcement Custody
How Much Does a Criminal Defense Attorney Cost? [2024]
Crimes Involving Substances
What Happens at Pre-Trial Hearings?
Search and Seizure Law: Everything Your Lawyer Wants You To Know
Search Warrants: Everything Your Lawyer Wants You To Know
Find top Criminal Defense Attorneys nearby
- Chesapeake, VA
- Norfolk, VA
- Portsmouth, VA
- Hampton, VA
Other top picks in your area
- Defamation Lawyer in Virginia Beach, VA
- Slip And Fall Lawyer in Virginia Beach, VA
- Dog Bite Attorney in Virginia Beach, VA
- Litigation Attorneys in Virginia Beach, VA
