- Assault and Battery VA Code Ann. 18.2-57
- Domestic Violence VA Code Ann. 18.2-57.2
- Stalking VA Code Ann. 18.2-60.3
- Strangulation and Suffocation VA Code Ann. 18.2-51.6
- Unlawful Wounding VA Code Ann. 18.2-51
- Malicous Wounding VA Code Ann. 18.2-51
- Aggravated Malicious Wounding VA Code Ann. 18.2-51.2

Questions one might ask regarding Assault & Battery and Domestic Violence
Do I need a lawyer for an assault charge? An assault can be filed with courts as either as a criminal or civil type of case. Regarding a criminal case involving assault, a guilty finding can land the accused in jail, wind up costing fines, and court costs, and possibly lead to.a permanent record. So the answer is – of course you want to hire an experienced criminal attorney who is respected for her 31 years of litigation experience, a criminal lawyer who the prosecutors will take seriously, an attorney who will know how to negotiate and try the case before a judge or jury, someone who will treat you the way you should be treated – a lawyer who will fight for you the same way she would want to be fought for if she were the client. A conviction can hurt employment, educational loans and scholarships; immigration; a right to carry arms and more. Invest in the right type of representation – someone like Sheryl Shane with a long term solid reputation in the field.
What do I do if I am charged with a violent crime? It is a rare day that I would advise a suspect to speak with law enforcement without having a criminal attorney present. If you are incarcerated – call your friends and family to hire an attorney. If you have been released on your own recognizance or bond, take immediate steps yourself to find the right lawyer. Any minor wrong move can take you down a darker path. Anything you say can be used against you in a court of law. Let your lawyer do your talking.
How to prepare for a court appearance for assault? Be at the courthouse early. You and your attorney have already met and discussed what should have been done and completed prior to court. Know you will probably go through security. Many courts will not permit electronics including phones, computers, and tablets. Wear clothing that is modest and clean. Do not wear hats or sunglasses into the courtrooms. You should have been fully preprepared in advance.
What type of penalty for assault lies in The Commonwealth of Virginia? A. simple assault first offense or domestic violence assault charge can land you in jail for up to 12 months incarceration, a fine, court costs, and probation. An unlawful malicious wounding is a felony 6 and you can earn yourself up to 5 years in prison for this offense, a malicious wounding has a maximum penalty of 20 years incarceration if convicted. An aggravated malicious wounding can turn into a life sentence. Strangulation and suffocation are also felonies with a maximum period of incarceration of 5 years imprisonment.
Can a violent crime charge be dropped? A violent crime certainly may be dropped. The outcome of the case depends on a variety of factors such as: 1. the strength of the evidence, 2. the parties involved ie. the Judge, Commonwealth Attorney, Law Enforcement, and Defense Attorney, the clients prior history with the law, and the victim’s feeling toward the case. Criminal Defense Attorney Sheryl Shane will also instruct you on mitigating acts you should complete prior to your court date.
What is some advice Attorney Sheryl Shane can give regarding a criminal case investigation? a. Gather evidence and witnesses, b. Preserve social media, texts, emails, phone call logs, gps locations, or any photograph or videos. c. Stay off social media until the case is concluded and your lawyer gives you the go ahead.
This is only an advertisement platform and if legal advise is sought – please call Attorney Sheryl Shane at 703 503 4448.
This writing shall not be construed as legal advice. Copyright @ Sheryl Shane, Esq.