1. Robinson Law, PLLC
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 50+ years combined experience serving Hampton Roads
Practice Areas: DUI, assault, battery, domestic violence, gun crimes, weapons offenses, drug crimes, sex offenses, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: Whether it’s your first arrest or you’ve been through the system before, facing criminal charges can be overwhelming. From how the law defines certain crimes to the punishments imposed upon a conviction, Virginia is known as being “tough on crime.” This is especially the case in Chesapeake, a city with a reputation for high crime rates. At Robinson Law, PLLC, they are a Chesapeake criminal defense law firm with decades of experience handling all types of cases. Regardless of the allegations against you, they will work with you to develop a compelling defense. With more than 50 years of combined experience representing clients throughout the Seven Cities and across Virginia, they have what it takes to handle even the most complex and challenging cases. Their aggressive team of lawyers can help you prepare a defense to whatever charges you face. Chesapeake has a crime rate that is nearly double the state average. However, what sets the city apart from others with similarly high crime rates is the number of Chesapeake violent crimes. Each year, there are more than 1,100 violent crimes committed in the city.
Location: Serves Chesapeake, VA (Chesapeake Circuit Court: 307 Albemarle Drive, Suite 300A, Chesapeake, VA 23322-5579)
Contact: (703) 844-3746 | https://www.callrobinson.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
2. Pettrey Law, PLC
Focus Area: Criminal defense with personalized attention and local court knowledge
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, domestic violence, assault, theft, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: While no particular outcome can be guaranteed in any situation, the firm handles every case with a passion to serve the interests of clients, an understanding of their unique circumstances, and honest counsel. They stand by their commitment to pursue justice diligently in a legal landscape where every detail can tip the scales. The legal system in Chesapeake, Virginia, operates under specific statutes and guidelines that influence how cases are tried and resolved. Understanding this local context is crucial for effective defense. The Chesapeake Circuit Court handles felonies and significant misdemeanor charges, necessitating informed legal strategies to navigate the proceedings. Familiarity with the local judges and prosecutors can provide strategic advantages in how cases are approached and negotiated. At Pettrey Law, PLC, they assist clients from the moment of their arrest to ensure their rights are upheld during each legal step they encounter. The firm values transparency and believes that every piece of information can be pivotal in crafting a strong defense.
Location: Chesapeake, Virginia
Contact: (757) 796-6996 | https://www.pettreylaw.com/
Consultation: Free initial consultation available
3. Black & Black, P.C.
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 28+ years experience and Martindale-Hubbell BV Distinguished rating
Practice Areas: DUI/DWI, assault (sexual and physical), larceny, theft, trespassing, drug crimes, traffic violations
Background: With more than 28 years of experience, attorney Hugh E. “Teddy” Black, III is known by both clients and peers for his integrity and dedication to excellent legal representation. He has earned a BV Distinguished Peer Review Rating by Martindale-Hubbell for professionalism and ethics. At Black & Black, P.C., client relationships are very important. They are committed to providing the highest quality legal representation to clients in the most effective, cost-efficient manner. They are responsive to the needs and concerns of each individual client. At Black & Black, P.C., they combine the accessibility and attentiveness of a small firm with the skills, experience and resources commonly associated with a large law firm. Being charged with a DUI/DWI (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs) offense in Virginia is a serious matter with possible serious consequences. When your liberty is on the line, you need a dedicated attorney to aggressively defend you in court. If you have been accused of a crime, they are able to assist in all types of criminal offenses.
Location: Chesapeake, Virginia (serves Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, Hampton, Newport News)
Contact: (757) 842-6531 | https://www.teddyblacklaw.com/
Consultation: Available by appointment
4. The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller
Focus Area: Criminal defense with extensive knowledge of Virginia criminal law and Chesapeake courts
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, cybercrimes, identity theft, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: Chesapeake’s legal system can be complex, and an early engagement with adept lawyers can significantly influence your defense strategy. They advocate for your rights from the moment of your arrest, ensuring no procedural lapses occur that could jeopardize your defense. Their priority is your freedom, and they work tirelessly to achieve the possible outcome. Hiring a criminal defense attorney from The Law Offices of Daniel J. Miller offers numerous advantages. Their team brings extensive knowledge of Virginia criminal law and the intricacies of Chesapeake’s courts. They work to build a robust defense by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and challenging prosecution claims. Their legal strategies are crafted to reduce charges or dismiss them when possible. Moreover, a criminal defense lawyer acts as your advocate, negotiating with prosecutors on your behalf to explore plea options. In addition to the extensive list of criminal defense, they also provide legal defense for emerging areas like cybercrimes and identity theft. The digital age brings new complexities, and the firm is adept at handling these cases with technological insights.
Location: Serves Chesapeake, Virginia
Contact: (757) 267-4949 | https://www.legaldefense.com/
Consultation: Available for consultation
5. McCormack & McCormack
Focus Area: Criminal defense with 70 years combined experience and extensive jury trial skills
Practice Areas: DUI, drug crimes, assault, theft, domestic violence, traffic crimes, felonies, misdemeanors
Background: At the Virginia Beach firm, they have been working with clients facing criminal defense charges for a combined 70 years. They pride themselves on forming a strong and aggressive strategy to defend clients, no matter what charges they are facing. They strive to meet clients’ specific needs and objectives, offering personal and committed service. Their experience with handling hundreds of jury cases has allowed them to gain vital insight and proficiency when working with clients. In the past year, the city of Chesapeake has experienced over 8,000 crimes. Compared to the rest of Virginia’s 1.97 violent crime rating, Chesapeake holds a 3.97 violent crime rate. That rate is even over the national median, elevating the potential for future criminal action in that area. The rate for property crimes is 31.89 in Chesapeake, while Virginia averages a 22.50 rate. There are over 6,000 burglary and theft crimes in the city every year. At McCormack & McCormack, they know the importance of preparing an effective defense against your criminal charges.
Location: Virginia Beach, VA (serves Chesapeake and Hampton Roads)
Contact: (888) 490-0876 | https://www.mccormackpc.com/
Consultation: Free consultation available
Criminal Defense Laws in Virginia
Felony Classifications
Virginia classifies felonies into six classes:
Class 1 Felony: Includes first-degree murder. Penalty is death or life imprisonment.
Class 2 Felony: Includes aggravated malicious wounding. Penalty is 20 years to life imprisonment.
Class 3 Felony: Includes burglary with deadly weapon. Penalty is 5 to 20 years imprisonment.
Class 4 Felony: Includes arson of occupied building, embezzlement over $500. Penalty is 2 to 10 years imprisonment.
Class 5 Felony: Includes involuntary manslaughter, battery of law enforcement. Penalty is 1 to 10 years imprisonment or up to 12 months jail and/or $2,500 fine (at court discretion).
Class 6 Felony: Includes animal cruelty, reckless endangerment. Penalty is 1 to 5 years imprisonment or up to 12 months jail and/or $2,500 fine (at court discretion).
Misdemeanor Classifications
Class 1 Misdemeanor: Includes DUI (first/second offense), petit larceny, assault and battery. Maximum 12 months jail and $2,500 fine.
Class 2 Misdemeanor: Includes aggressive driving, trespassing. Maximum 6 months jail and $1,000 fine.
Class 3 Misdemeanor: Includes hunting without license. Maximum fine of $500.
Class 4 Misdemeanor: Includes public intoxication. Maximum fine of $250.
Expungement
Virginia allows expungement only for charges that were dismissed, nolle prossed, or resulted in acquittal. Convictions generally cannot be expunged. The process requires filing a petition with the circuit court and may require a hearing.
DUI Laws
Virginia DUI applies to driving with BAC of .08% or higher (.04% commercial, .02% under 21). First offense carries mandatory minimum $250 fine, 12-month license suspension, and VASAP (alcohol education program). Second offense within 5 years carries mandatory minimum 20 days jail, 3-year license suspension, and $500 fine. Third offense within 10 years is a Class 6 felony with mandatory minimum 90 days jail.
Frequently Asked Questions
What courts handle criminal cases in Chesapeake?
Criminal cases in Chesapeake are handled by the Chesapeake General District Court for misdemeanors and preliminary hearings, and the Chesapeake Circuit Court for felony trials and serious misdemeanors. The Chesapeake Circuit Court is located at 307 Albemarle Drive, Suite 300A, Chesapeake, VA 23322-5579. If you have a felony case in Chesapeake, such as a sex offense, your case will be at the local circuit court. Having a Chesapeake criminal defense attorney familiar with local courts, judges, and prosecutors provides an advantage in navigating your case.
What is Virginia’s approach to criminal sentencing?
Virginia is known as being “tough on crime.” The state abolished parole for felonies committed after January 1, 1995. This means that convicted felons must serve at least 85% of their sentence before becoming eligible for release. Virginia uses sentencing guidelines that consider the nature of the offense, the defendant’s prior record, and other factors. Judges may depart from the guidelines but must provide written reasons. A Chesapeake criminal defense attorney can advocate for departures below the guidelines in appropriate cases.
What are the penalties for drug possession in Virginia?
Virginia reformed drug laws effective July 1, 2021. Simple possession of Schedule I or II controlled substances (including cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine) is now a Class 5 felony (reduced from Class 5) with maximum penalty of 10 years but sentencing guidelines typically recommend probation for first offenders. Marijuana possession (up to 1 oz) was decriminalized and carries a $25 civil penalty. Possession with intent to distribute remains a serious felony. Drug court and first offender programs may be available for eligible defendants. A Chesapeake criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility for alternative sentencing.
What happens if I am charged with DUI in Virginia?
A DUI charge in Virginia carries serious consequences. First offense carries mandatory minimum $250 fine, 12-month administrative license suspension (restricted license may be available after 7 days), and enrollment in VASAP (Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program). Enhanced penalties apply for BAC of .15% or higher (mandatory minimum 5 days jail for .15-.20%, 10 days for .20%+). Refusal to submit to blood or breath test results in automatic 12-month administrative license suspension for first refusal, which cannot be restricted. A Chesapeake criminal defense attorney can challenge the traffic stop and chemical test results.
Can I get my Virginia criminal record expunged?
Virginia has very limited expungement laws. Expungement is available only for charges that were dismissed, nolle prossed, or resulted in acquittal. Convictions generally cannot be expunged. To seek expungement, you must file a petition with the circuit court, provide fingerprints, and pay filing fees. If the Commonwealth’s Attorney objects, a hearing is required where you must prove that continued existence of the record causes manifest injustice. Absolute pardons from the Governor also allow expungement. A Chesapeake criminal defense attorney can evaluate eligibility and file the petition.