The Wilson Law Firm Blog

The Wilson Law Firm Publishes 2nd Edition of DUI Arrest Survival Guide

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 08:00:00 GMT

T. Kevin Wilson and Bob Battle, co-authors of “DUI/DWI Arrest Survival Guide: The Guilt Myth” have released a 2^nd Edition of the Virginia handbook. Originally published in 2009, the book has educated countless people about the serious legal issues associated with being arrested for DUI/DWI in Virginia. Recent changes in the laws related to Virginia DUI/DWI arrests and procedures prompted the new edition.

T. Kevin Wilson has been a leading advocate for people charged with DUI and reckless driving offenses since 1995. His experience and education with Virginia’s criminal and traffic laws is vast, including more than a decade served as a legal instructor at the Prince William County Criminal Justice Academy, certifications as an evidentiary breath alcohol technician for the Intoxilyzer 5000, S-D2, S-D5 and 400 breath testing machines, operator training on the EC IR II breath testing machine and completion of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) curriculum on Standardized Field Sobriety Testing.
The “DUI/DWI Arrest Survival Guide: The Guilt Myth – 2^nd Edition” is available on Amazon.com for $16.95, but anyone interested in receiving a copy may contact The Wilson Law Firm directly for a free copy.

Fairfax County has most DUI Deaths in Virginia

Mon, 07 Nov 2011 08:00:00 GMT

In a recent study, the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles discovered that Fairfax County has averaged the most DUI related fatal accidents during the 2006 to 2010 period. Fairfax County is said to average 19 DUI related deaths each year. In an effort to improve this number, the Fairfax County Police Department is participating in the Checkpoint Strikeforce campaign. Checkpoint Strikeforce is run by the non-profit organization Washington Regional Alcohol Program (WRAP) and has received a grant from the DMV: Virginia Highway Safety Office.

Crash with State Trooper, Arrested for DUI

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Debra Jueneman of Smithfield, VA was involved in an accident Sunday night. Jueneman crashed her 2010 Dodge Charge into a Virginia State Trooper's cruiser. Trooper C.W. Amburgey was assisting a tractor trailer off the side of Route 258 when Jueneman's vehicle hit him. Trooper Amburgey was in his vehicle and was taken to Southampton Memorial Hospital for neck and back injuries. Jueneman was charged with DUI and possession of marijuana.

Pro-Wrestler Kurt Angle has Virginia DUI Charge Reduced to Reckless Driving

Wed, 05 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Professional Wrestler Kurt Angle was arrested for drunk driving in Warren County Virginia last month. Angle was not present for his scheduled court hearing yesterday; however, Assistant Commonwealth's Attorney Michael Fleming agreed to reduce his charge to Reckless Driving. Angle's BAC was .06%, which is below Virginia's legal limit.

Virginia Driver Charged with Reckless Driving Following Accident with Ambulance

Mon, 03 Oct 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Joanna Kibwe has been charged with Reckless Driving in Hampton, Virginia as a result of an accident she had with an ambulance. The ambulance was transporting a critically ill patient to the hospital at the time of the accident; the patient aboard the ambulance died a short time later. Several other people were taken to the hospital as a result of the accident, but non with life-threatening injuries. The cause of death of the ambulance patient is still under investigation.

Former Henrico Police Officer Sentenced in DUI and Maiming Case

Wed, 14 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

John Randolph Tucker, III, a retired Henrico County police officer, was sentenced this week for a drunk driving accident that occurred over a year ago. Tucker, who worked for Henrico County Police Department for 26 years, was found guilty of DUI and maiming some months ago. The victim of the accident, 42-year-old Robert M. Harrison was present with his family during the sentencing on Tuesday. Harrison's mother testified that her son suffered fractures on every limb, 13 broken ribs, collapsed lungs and a face swollen beyond recognition. Harrison testified that he has more surgeries scheduled for closing his abdomen, from his sternum to his pelvis. Tucker read a letter he wrote to Harrison aloud in court expressing sorrow and remorse. Circuit Court Judge L. A. Harris, Jr. sentenced Tucker to 3 years in prison for the two charges. Tucker is also facing a $20+ million personal injury law suit.

Pro Wrestler Kurt Angle Charge with Virginia DUI

Wed, 07 Sep 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Former Olympic medalist and current professional wrestler, Kurt Angle was in Shenandoah County this past weekend. Angle participated in a wrestling even at the County fair on Saturday night. Afterwards, a motorist called into police to report Angle's vehicle weaving across the road. Police responded and ultimately arrested Angle on suspicion of DUI. Angle has been arrested twice before; once for violating a protective order and once for dunk driving. The previous charges were dropped.

An Experienced Manassas Criminal Defense Lawyer Can Mean All the Difference in the World to You

Sat, 20 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

When you are arrested by the police for a crime, chances are you are probably asking yourself: Do I need an attorney? The fact that you are even asking that question should tell you that you most likely DO need a lawyer, but not just any attorney.

Hiring an experienced Northern Virginia criminal defense lawyer can mean all the difference in the world to your case.

One of the main reasons why it is important to speak with a skilled criminal defense attorney is because they know the criminal process, the state's criminal laws, the court system, and how to minimize any further charges and penalties.

Sadly, you and others who have been arrested for a crime in Virginia are often forced into making critical decisions before you really understand what is going on, and these decisions can impact the rest of your life. This is why it is critical to get a qualified attorney who can help you through this process, guide you through the criminal justice system, negotiate on your behalf, protect your interests, challenge the other side, and make sure you are getting a fair plea offer.

At the Wilson Law Firm, our knowledgeable Manassas criminal defense lawyers care about your future and will provide you with solid advice and fight your battle. Call today for a free legal consultation at (703) 361-6100. We handle burglary, larceny, robbery, assault, fraud, forgery, drug possession, misdemeanors and most felony and juvenile offenses.

How to Find the Right DUI Attorney in Virginia for Your Case

Tue, 02 Aug 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Now that you know it is a good idea to hire an attorney who focuses on DUI cases, you may be asking yourself, "How do I find the right attorney for my case?" There are many things that you will want to consider when choosing a DUI defense attorney.

Location: Hire an attorney who handles DUI cases within the state in which you received your DUI/DWI. For example, if you got your DUI in Northern Virginia, it is a wise move to hire a Manassas DUI attorney or a skilled drunk driving lawyer from that region.
Specialization: Hire a lawyer who focuses on defending Virginia DUIs. This way, you will make sure that the attorney who is representing you knows the state's drunk driving laws, is familiar with the court system and has the best representation methods for cases of this type.
Free Consultation: Only meet with DUI lawyers who offer free initial consultations. You should be able to meet with the lawyer first to ask your questions and get a better feel for that attorney in order to determine if you want to work with him.
Fees: Ask your Virginia drunk driving lawyer if their law firm provides payment options or allows financing. Find out what the total cost of representation would be.
Expectations: Ask what you should expect when your DUI case goes to court. An experienced attorney should be able to give you an opinion based on their past cases.

The Wilson Law Firm provides a free consultation so that you can speak with a knowledgeable and experienced northern Virginia DUI defense attorney. Please call (800) DUI - LWYR or (703) 361-6100 to schedule your consultation. We will also provide you with our FREE book, DUI/DWI Arrest Survival Guide - The Guilt Myth, which will help through this time.

How Can You Benefit From Hiring a Local, Experienced Northern Virginia Criminal Defense Attorney?

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you have been arrested for a crime in Northern Virginia, whether you are guilty or innocent, you will need a good criminal defense lawyer to help navigate your case through the legal system and to advise you of your rights.

Why should you hire a local attorney?

An experienced Northern Virginia criminal defense attorney will know the local rules of the local court. If you hire an attorney from out of state, he or she may not be aware of the "unwritten rules" of the court. For example, there are only a couple of people in each jurisdiction that can even make and approve plea bargains. If your criminal defense attorney knows the right people to talk with, he may able to save you time, money, and sometimes jail time.

If you are found guilty of a crime, a VA defense attorney may be able to find a sentencing program that applies to your crime. If the court approves an alternative method to jail, you may end up with no jail time or less jail time if you hire the right attorney. For instance, if you were sentenced to jail for one year due to a drug-related crime, a Northern Virginia criminal defense lawyer may be able to get you into a drug treatment facility with less jail time.

At the Wilson Law Firm, we will fight to get you the best possible outcome. We know this is your life, and you need the best representation possible in order to get back to living your life. Call us today at (703) 361-6100, and talk with an experienced Manassas criminal defense lawyer in a free consultation.

Two Smartest Things to Do After a Virginia DUI

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 08:00:00 GMT

After you receive a DUI there are many things that will be running through your mind. Questions such as, "Can I get out of it?" "How much will it cost?" and, "Will I go to jail?" You will probably have many more questions and concerns, especially if you were sober or if you only had one or two drinks and knew that you were not drunk.

Two of the smartest things you can do after a Virginia DUI include:

Hire a Manassas DUI attorney: A lawyer skilled in DUI/DWI laws will be your best resource to turn to during this difficult time. They will know the state laws, fines, penalties, jail time, and court system. They will also know defenses that could be used in your case and will question the testing that was done to convict you, such as field sobriety tests and breathalyzer tests.
Talk to any potential witnesses: Talk to people who were with you prior to your DUI arrest. By talking to potential "Sobriety Witnesses," you may be able to get them to testify on your behalf if they thought you were sharp, alert and speaking normally. You can ask witnesses questions such as "Was my speech slurred?" "Did I do anything that may have suggested that I was too intoxicated to drive?" "Was I coherent?" If the witnesses were in your car, ask them how your driving was.

Once you find out what the witnesses have to say about your behavior prior to your DUI, you need to have your Virginia DUI attorney collect statements from these witnesses, as they may have to appear at a hearing or trial.

The smartest thing you can do after your Manassas, VA DUI is contact a Northern Virginia DUI attorney immediately. A skilled lawyer will give you other tips, recommendations and helpful advice to help you get the best results possible.

Call the Wilson Law Firm to speak with a qualified Virginia DUI defense lawyer today at (800) DUI - LWYR or (703) 361-6100 for a free legal consultation.

What Are the Differences Between Virginia State and Federal Drug Charges?

Fri, 17 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

The criminal charges and penalties for drug crimes can differ if you are facing federal drug charges, as opposed to drug charges in Virginia. The criminal penalties will depend on the substances and quantity involved. Drug crimes are serious, and criminal penalties for federal drug charges can be severe. This is why it is critical for you to speak with a qualified Virginia criminal defense attorney about your federal drug charges immediately.

Federal charges differ from those at state level because of Congress' power. Congress has charged the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) with the task of implementing the Controlled Substances Act.

Federal law enforcement typically monitors interstate trafficking of drugs, international drug trafficking, and larger quantities of controlled substances. Because the crimes are more serious than most at state level, the penalties are more severe. For example, if a drug crime in Virginia comes with a one year jail sentencing, the same crime at federal level may have double or triple the jail time.

If you commit a drug crime under the Controlled Substances Act, offenses at federal level may include:

Manufacturing drugs - intent to manufacture or distribute illicit drugs
Drug trafficking - interstate trafficking or international drug trafficking
Conspiracy - promoting the manufacture and distribution of illegal drugs
Continuing criminal enterprise crimes - a person trafficking drugs in connection with five or more others
Protected location offenses - distributing drugs to people under 21, within a school zone or other protected zone

There are other drug offenses that the Act includes and the DEA enforces. Drug crimes at the federal level may have set minimum and maximum prison terms and may vary from state drug sentencing terms.

For a more information on the differences between state and federal drug crime charges and how they relate to your case, call a northern Virginia criminal defense lawyer at the Wilson Law Firm at (703) 361-6100 for a free legal consultation.

What the Other Side Doesn’t Want You to Know About Chemical Exposure Altering Your Virginia Breath Test

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Sometimes a breath test can be wrong, causing false negatives and high readings that aren't necessarily true. However, police officers may arrest you because the machine indicates you are drunk, thus leading to a Virginia DUI.

There are many things that can contribute to false readings, including the machine not being calibrated correctly, stomach conditions, GERD, acid reflex, gingivitis, and a condition called residual mouth alcohol, among others. Certain chemicals may also contribute to a false DUI breath test.

If you have been exposed to chemicals prior to your Virginia DUI arrest, you need to speak with a qualified Manassas, VA drunk driving attorney. Certain chemicals like adhesives, glues, paint removers, paints, and other solvents can be ingested when working around them, especially true for construction workers and manufacturing workers.

If you have had recent exposure to those mentioned chemicals or other industrial compounds, they may have contaminated your Virginia DUI breath test causing a false reading. This can occur because the substances from these chemicals can remain on your breath, sometimes even for days.

If you have taken a breath test after chemical exposure, the test may have mistaken those chemical substances in your mouth for alcohol.

After your arrest, don't lose focus. There are things you may be able to do to prove that there was a false breath test reading. This is why it is critical to your case to talk with a skilled Manassas, Virginia DUI defense lawyer immediately so he can start working on possible defenses to your case. Call the Wilson Law Firm today for your Virginia DWI/DUI needs at (800) DUI - LWYR or (703) 361-6100.

Former Alexandria Police Chief, David Baker, Considering a Run for City Council

Tue, 17 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

David Baker, the former Alexandria police chief who was convicted of a DUI, has been using his experience to educate the public since he completed his jail sentence in August 2009. The initial fear and shame he felt following the incident was overcome by the numerous supporters to whom he shared his story. He has spoken at schools, jails, police roll calls and even filmed a public service announcement titled "Even a Police Chief Can Get Nailed Drunk Driving". Now, Baker is considering a run for a seat on the Alexandria City Council: "Stand up with a level of courage, take the full measure of punishment, admit and learn from your mistakes, and move on to create new opportunities in your life." Should he chose to run, he would be on the November 2012 ballot.

Possible Defenses for Writing Bad Checks in Virginia

Thu, 12 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

If you allegedly wrote a bad check, the recipient of the check can press charges in a court of law. After being charged with allegedly writing a bad check in Virginia, learn about possible defenses that can help your case and what the other side may have on you.

The prosecution will attempt to establish that you had knowledge there was a lack of funds in the account you wrote the check from. They will try to prove that you wrote and delivered a bad check with the intent to defraud, and they will try to accuse you of a crime. They may state that writing a check without sufficient funds is a way of obtaining goods and cash under false pretenses.

This is why it is extremely important that you have an experienced Virginia criminal defense attorney on your side. You need to turn to an attorney who has experience handling check fraud cases, as he will have strategies and defenses available to use.

The Defense

Sometimes the other side can prove that you knew that you didn't have sufficient funds to cover the payment at the time you wrote the check by showing proof that the account was previously closed out by you. Other times, check fraud cases aren't so easy for the prosecution to prove. In fact, sometimes these cases can be tough to establish without the proper evidence and facts. This means that bad check cases can sometimes be too difficult to prove beyond a reasonable doubt.

There are other defenses available for bad check cases depending upon your case specifics. There is no time to waste in situations of this kind. Contact an experienced Manassas criminal defense lawyer at the Wilson Law Firm at (703) 361-6100 today to schedule a free legal consultation and go over possible defenses in your case.

Crash on I-95, Three Injured, Local Man Arrested

Wed, 11 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Segrio A. Alvarenga-Vasquez, a 34-year-old-man from Fredericksburg, was arrested following a head-on collision on I-95 Saturday night. Alvarenga-Vasquez was driving a 1993 Ford Explorer south in the northbound lanes of 95 when he crash into a 1996 Volvo, driven by Alison Conway. Conway, a 48-year-old Maryland woman, was with her daughter, Amanda-19, and her mother, Geraldine Orrell-78. Conway and her daughter were taken to a local hospital with minor injuries. Orrell was flown to Fairfax Inova Hospital with life-threatening injuries. Alvarenga-Vasquez left the scene of the accident, but was arrested shortly after. He has been charge with drunk in public, felony hit-and-run, reckless driving, failure to have a valid license, failure to have insurance and failure to wear a seatbelt.

Innocent, But Arrested for DUI in Virginia? Learn About the One Element that May Prove You Were Sober

Thu, 05 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

When the loud sirens go off and you are blinded by the bright lights of a police officer's vehicle, you may panic, cry, or have an anxiety attack while you are being pulled over. You may not understand what you did, and you may feel that it is not fair that the Virginia police are targeting you and your vehicle.

A Virginia officer of the law may say you were swerving and demand that you to take a field sobriety test after he sees your red eyes. He may ask you to perform the three standardized tests, and may tell you to blow into the portable breathalyzer on the side of the road.

Even though you are innocent, your eyes are red from crying, and you are scared and hyperventilating. Because of the way you are acting and the way your eyes look, the officers believe you are drunk or are on some type of drug, even though you are not. They may tell you that you have a blood-alcohol content of over 0.08 and take you in to the station.

Although you know you had one drink with dinner, you know yourself and you are not drunk. So what do you do now?

Here are three things NOT to do after you are allegedly charged with drinking and driving in Virginia.

Don't panic. It will only make things worse.
Don't assume that you have lost your case because the officers told you that your BAC was over the legal limit. Their equipment may have malfunctioned or was not calibrated correctly.
Don't fail to appear in Court.

The ONE key element in this type of case is to get witnesses who saw you sober that night and knew how much you had to drink.

When you are arrested on a DUI charge in Virginia, the clock starts ticking. You need to contact a skilled Manassas, Virginia DUI lawyer immediately so he can start investigating your case. Call the Wilson Law Firm today for your Virginia DWI/DUI needs at (800) DUI - LWYR or (703) 361-6100.

Virginia Teen Dies in Crash, Five Other Injured

Tue, 03 May 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Virginia State Police report that speed and alcohol were non factors in the Nottoway County crash that killed one teenager and left five others injured. Joseph Dorazio, III, the 18-year-old driver, was cited with reckless driving after he ran his 2005 Chevrolet Trailblazer off the left side of the road, overcorrected and overturning multiple times on the right side of the road. Dorazio was not wearing his seatbelt; police are unsure if any of the passengers were wearing their seatbelts. One of the passengers, 17-year-old Avery Spence of Midlothian, was ejected from the SUV. Spence dies later at Southside Community Hospital in Farmville.

Tech Linebacker Guilty of DUI

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Lyndell Gibson, linebacker for the Virginia Tech Hookies, was convicted on DUI charges Wednesday morning. Gibson plead not guilty but admitted there was sufficient evidence to find him guilty. The judge suspended jail time and the majority of the fine and Gibson will have to complete VASAP. The rising junior will transfer from Tech next semester with plans to return and play football again after one semester at Hampton University.

Loudoun County Accident; Father Fatally Injured, Son Arrested for DUI

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 08:00:00 GMT

Michael Allen Rollison was arrested Saturday afternoon on drunk driving charges following an automobile accident that claimed his father's life. Rollison has two drunk driving convictions on his record and now faced a felony DUI. The accident happened on Harpers Ferry Road around 2pm. Reportedly, Rollison nor his father were wearing seatbelts.