Legal Advice for Students Charged With Crimes in Virginia
Located in two of the Commonwealth's biggest university towns, the criminal defense practice at the Hart Law Offices serves the needs of students charged with crimes of all kinds, from misdemeanor alcohol charges to serious drug felonies or sex offenses. For a free consultation about the best ways to resolve criminal charges against college and university students on or off campus, contact us in Harrisonburg or Charlottesville.
Serving Students at the University of Virginia and James Madison University
An important goal in criminal defense for students is to resolve the case on terms that will avoid or minimize damage to future academic, professional or employment prospects. A criminal conviction of practically any kind can cause serious problems for entry into licensed professions such as teaching, law, medicine, nursing, law enforcement or securities. A criminal record can also complicate a security clearance or advancement in a career.
Criminal defense lawyer John Hart is sensitive to the needs of student clients. He'll develop a strategy that not only meets the demands of your current legal problem, but also protects your future interests to the greatest extent possible.
In many situations, a student's offense can be resolved without a finding of guilt if the student qualifies for first offender status under Virginia law. This involves more than the absence of a previous criminal record. The student defendant must be cooperative and willing to accept responsibility for the crime, then stay out of trouble for a period of up to two years, depending on the original offense.
We advise student clients about the best ways to resolve arrests and criminal charges, including such crimes as:
- Drug possession or sales
- DUI
- Sex crimes ranging from indecent exposure to sexual assault
- Underage drinking or possession of alcohol
- Property offenses from shoplifting to check fraud or vandalism
- Disorderly conduct
To learn how you can benefit from the advice of an attorney with extensive experience in the defense of college and university students accused of crimes, contact the Hart Law Offices for a free consultation in Harrisonburg or Charlottesville.
