Strong Defense - Felonies, Misdemeanors, and Traffic Infractions

The criminal system in Virginia can be very confusing, particularly if this is the first time that you have been charged with a crime. In Virginia, criminal offenses are generally classified as felonies or misdemeanors. Felonies are the most serious of offenses, carrying penalties in excess of one year in prison, such as murder, arson, rape, robbery, grand larceny, breaking and entering, malicious wounding, forgery, uttering and the like.

Misdemeanors include less serious offenses carrying penalties of up to 12 months in jail, such as DUI, reckless driving, trespassing, assault and battery, disorderly conduct, petit larceny, and possession of marijuana. It is important to understand that even if you are charged with a misdemeanor, you still face potentially stiff penalties if you are convicted.

Stevens Caruso offers strong, experienced criminal defense counsel to individuals who have been charged with felony and misdemeanor offenses in the northern Virginia region. Casey R. Stevens and Lisa K. Caruso are former prosecutors who have successfully handled thousands of criminal matters. They are not afraid to take on the toughest cases and they know what it takes to achieve success in jury trials, bench trials, and criminal appeals. They leverage their extensive experience and legal knowledge to tackle a full range of criminal matters, including:

• Assault/Battery: In Virginia, violent crimes such as assault and battery carry harsh punishments and can be prosecuted as a felony or misdemeanor. With so much at stake, you need a criminal defense attorney who will do everything possible to help you defend against the charges you are facing.
• Domestic Violence: In addition to stiff criminal penalties, a domestic violence conviction can have very serious consequences for you and your family. If you are charged with a domestic violence offense, you may be served with a protective order preventing you from seeing your children and your spouse. It is critical to seek advice from a skilled criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible.
• Drug Charges: If you have been charged with a drug crime in Virginia, you may be forced to pay significant fines, participate in a drug rehabilitation program and serve a lengthy jail sentence. Additionally, a drug conviction could jeopardize your current employment and impact your ability to find a job in the future. An experienced attorney can work with you to help you address the serious charges you are dealing with.
• DUI/DWI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is treated as a serious offense in Virginia. If you have been charged with a DUI, it is important to have an experienced criminal defense lawyer on your side who will take the time to fully investigate the charges and develop a strong defense on your behalf.
• Larceny/Theft: In Virginia, theft charges may be prosecuted as a felony or misdemeanor. Beyond the criminal penalties, a theft conviction can have long-lasting consequences on your personal and professional reputation. With so much at risk, you need a strong and proactive criminal defense firm on your side.
• Murder: If you are charged with murder in Virginia you could face life in prison or even the death penalty. You should be represented by a highly qualified defense attorney who knows how to thoroughly investigate a case and mount an aggressive defense against charges as serious as murder.
• Probation Violations: Violating the terms of your probation is a serious matter which can lead to your incarceration. If you have been accused of a probation violation it is important to seek the advice of experienced attorneys who know how to challenge these kinds of allegations.
• Sex Crimes: Conviction of a sex crime in Virginia comes with very severe consequences. In addition to potential incarceration, you may be required to register with the Virginia Sex Offender Registry. A skilled criminal defense attorney can work to protect your legal rights and build a strong defense to address the charges you are facing.
• Traffic Tickets: Most individuals who are served with a traffic ticket simply plead guilty and pay their fine. It is important to recognize that you do have the right to challenge the ticket. Knowledgeable legal counsel can review the evidence and in many circumstances have the charges reduced or dismissed.
• White Collar Crimes: White collar crimes include embezzlement, bank fraud, tax evasion, insurance fraud, bribery, money laundering and many other scams and fraudulent activities. When you are charged with a white collar crime you need a sophisticated defense attorney that can sort through complicated facts and identify critical weaknesses in the government’s case.

Discuss Your Case with our Experienced Attorneys

If you are facing criminal charges in Prince William County, Fairfax County or anywhere else in Northern Virginia, you should speak with a criminal defense lawyer at Stevens Caruso. Casey R. Stevens and Lisa K. Caruso are seasoned criminal defense attorneys who defend clients in both misdemeanor and felony cases. You can schedule a free initial in office consultation with Casey or Lisa by calling 703-897-1777 or completing the online contact form.