Virginia’s marijuana decrim bill – what does it mean for you?
As you may have heard, in 2020 Virginia passed a bill decriminalizing the simple possession of marijuana. There are a lot of questions about this we have already been asked, and we like to keep our...
View ArticleU.S. Supreme Court says states can eliminate insanity defense in criminal cases
The Supreme Court held 6-3 that states can eliminate the insanity defense in criminal cases. The case involved a Kansas man sentenced to death for killing his family in 2011. Virginia currently permits...
View ArticleCommemoration of Today’s Juneteenth Holiday, June 19, 2020
Here at Blanch & Hart PLLC we want to take a moment to acknowledge the historical importance of today, June 19, 2020. As I am sure you are all aware, the Governor has announced Friday, Juneteenth...
View ArticleChild Custody Considerations During COVID19
Parenting is difficult even in the best of times, but adding a global pandemic and virtual learning to an already complex schedule between two co-parents can strain the relationship with your former...
View ArticleImproved DWI restricted licenses available in Virginia as of July 1, 2020
In Virginia, every first offense DWI conviction carries a mandatory one year driver’s license suspension. Restricted licenses have been available, but required an ignition interlock and only...
View ArticleVirginia now allows a restricted license for drivers who refuse alcohol testing
In Virginia, it is against the law to unreasonably refuse to provide a breath or blood sample for alcohol analysis after being arrested for DWI. First offenders who refuse to take the test lose their...
View ArticleVirginia requires video recording of police interrogations
One of the most common problems in the criminal justice system has been the he-said she-said nature of police interrogations that are not recorded. The police claim that the accused made some kind of...
View ArticleVirginia considering changes to the Court of Appeals
The Virginia General Assembly is expected to consider this year legislation to expand the jurisdiction of the Court of Appeals and reform the size and geography of the Court. In 2020, the Supreme...
View ArticleVirginia General Assembly Considering Expanding Expungement Eligibility
The Virginia General Assembly is currently considering proposals to expand the availability of expungements for people who have been charged with crimes. Presently, expungement is available in...
View ArticleVirginia Assembly Votes to Abolish the Death Penalty
The Virginia General Assembly has voted to abolish the death penalty, and Governor Northam is expected to sign the bill. Two men remain on Virginia’s death row. Their sentences will be converted to...
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