What Actually Happens When Someone Is Charged With a Crime in Virginia?
From the moment of arrest to your first court date, here is what the process actually looks like and what you need to know right away.
Attorney Shameka L. Rhoades of Trustice Law Group walks through the criminal charge process in Virginia step by step. In this segment from ABC News Showcase, Shameka covers:
- What happens from the moment someone is charged in Virginia
- How bond and bail work and what a personal recognizance bond means
- The difference between a misdemeanor and a felony charge
- Why even a misdemeanor conviction can change your life
- Why you should never speak to police without legal representation
Watch the full segment below:
From Charge to Court: The First Steps
When someone is charged with a crime in Virginia, they are taken to the magistrate’s office. They are either given a bond on the spot, or held over for a judge to conduct an arraignment where the judge states the charges, sets a court date, and addresses legal representation.
How Bond and Bail Work in Virginia
A court may set a secured bond requiring a specific amount of money for release, or grant a personal recognizance bond where the person signs their name agreeing to appear in court. If someone puts up property to secure another person’s release and that person does not appear, those assets can be seized.
The Difference Between a Misdemeanor and a Felony
Misdemeanors carry a maximum of up to 12 months in a local jail. Felonies carry a minimum of one year in a Virginia Department of Corrections facility with no upper limit depending on the charge.
Why a Misdemeanor Conviction Is More Serious Than It Sounds
Reckless driving in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor, not just a traffic ticket. A conviction can affect employment opportunities and security clearances. The charges feel minor. The consequences sometimes are not.
Why You Should Never Speak to Police Without a Lawyer
Once you make a statement to police, your attorney is bound by it. The moment someone is charged, they need legal representation. Before representation is secured, nothing beyond required identifying information should be said to police.
Trustice Law Group: Virginia Criminal Defense Attorneys
At Trustice Law Group, we work with clients across Virginia facing criminal charges at every stage of the process. The earlier you get representation, the more tools your defense has available. We are a female-owned Virginia law firm.
Real Law. Real Talk. Real Options.
Request a consultation or call us at 804-593-0788.
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FAQs
What happens at an arraignment in Virginia?
A judge formally informs you of the charges, sets a future court date, and addresses the question of legal representation.
Is reckless driving a serious charge in Virginia?
Yes. Reckless driving is a Class 1 misdemeanor, a criminal conviction that can affect employment and security clearances.
Should I talk to police before hiring a lawyer in Virginia?
No. Anything you say to law enforcement can be used in your case. Getting legal representation before making any statements protects your defense from the start.