An arrest or criminal conviction can follow someone through life, cutting off certain opportunities for education or work. Having a criminal history really does make it so much harder to improve one's life. Expungements could be the answer for those in Virginia...
Expungements
Expungements Q and A
When convicted of a crime, there is nothing wrong with wanting to clear one's record or ensure it is sealed. Having a conviction set aside can change one's life for the better. This week's column will address a few common questions many people have before deciding...
Virginia attorney helps those seeking expungements
There are some people in Virginia who have made mistakes in their lives resulting in criminal accusations. There are others who were accused of crimes that they did not commit; however, criminal charges -- even if there was a not guilty verdict in trial -- can remain...
What is “attainder of felony?”
You may stand to lose quite a bit if you end up being convicted of a felony in Roanoke. Depending on the offense in question, heavy fines or even a forfeiture of freedom in the form of a prison sentence (or a combination of both) may await you. You should you lose...
Virginia’s ongoing push to decriminalize pot
All around the United States, the move to decriminalize the use of marijuana seems to be gaining momentum. Multiple states in all parts of the country and the District of Columbia now legally allow adults at least 21 years of age to possess and use pot in accordance...
New diversion program for marijuana offenses
Over the past several years, many states across the national have passed laws that have legalized the use of marijuana for recreational purposes. Colorado led the way as the first state to do this and was quickly followed by all three west coast states. The movement...
How do you have the right to vote restored?
The limitations and restrictions that a criminal conviction can place on you in Roanoke have been detailed on this blog in the past. Being associated with criminal activity can hinder your chances at finding a job or securing housing, and a criminal conviction also...
Filing for an expungement
If you are one of the many people in Virginia who has been arrested for and charged with a criminal offense, you may well have experienced some negative consequences associated with having this event on your permanent record. There are some situations in which you may...
Reform in the criminal justice system
People in Virginia who are arrested for and ultimately convicted of criminal offenses often want to understand the penalties they may face. In addition to the penalties, people should pay special attention to how they may rebuild their lives once they have served...
Know if your situation qualifies for an expungement
A criminal record can affect many aspects of your life in Virginia and sometimes you may wish this record would disappear so you can have a clean start. In some situations, you may be able to get this start if a court expunges your record. At [nap_names...