Criminal Defense Lawyer in Stafford VA

Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges in Virginia is stressful, and the consequences of a conviction can follow you for years. Whether you are dealing with a misdemeanor or a felony, you deserve an attorney who will carefully examine the evidence, protect your rights at every stage, and fight for the best possible outcome.

Miles Franklin represents clients facing criminal charges throughout Stafford County, Fredericksburg, Spotsylvania, and Northern Virginia. Every case receives thorough attention because your freedom, your record, and your future are on the line.

Types of Criminal Cases

Miles handles a wide range of criminal defense matters in Virginia courts, including:

DUI/DWI charges — Virginia has some of the strictest DUI laws in the country. A first offense under Va. Code § 18.2-266 carries up to 12 months in jail, a $2,500 fine, and a one-year license suspension.
Drug offenses — Possession, distribution, and manufacturing charges carry different penalties depending on the substance and amount involved under Va. Code § 18.2-248 and related statutes.
Assault and battery — Simple assault is a Class 1 misdemeanor under Va. Code § 18.2-57, but charges can escalate to a felony depending on the circumstances, the alleged victim, or any prior convictions.
Theft and larceny — Virginia treats larceny of property valued at $1,000 or more as grand larceny, a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-95.
Domestic violence — Assault and battery against a family or household member under Va. Code § 18.2-57.2 can result in protective orders, mandatory counseling, and a permanent criminal record.
Felony charges — Any charge classified as a felony in Virginia can carry prison time of more than one year. Felonies also affect your right to vote, own firearms, and pass background checks for employment and housing.

What Happens After an Arrest in Virginia

Understanding the criminal process helps you make informed decisions about your case. In Virginia, a criminal case typically follows these steps:

Arrest and booking — You are taken into custody and processed at the local jail. Depending on the charge, you may be released on bond or held until a bond hearing.
Arraignment — You appear before a judge, hear the charges against you, and enter a plea. This is your first opportunity to have an attorney present.
Discovery and investigation — Your attorney reviews the evidence the prosecution plans to use, identifies weaknesses in their case, and gathers evidence in your defense.
Pre-trial motions — Your attorney may file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence, dismiss charges that lack probable cause, or resolve procedural issues before trial.
Trial or plea negotiation — Many cases are resolved through negotiation with the prosecutor, but if a fair resolution is not possible, your case goes to trial before a judge or jury.

Building a Strong Defense

Every criminal case is different, and the right defense strategy depends on the specific facts and circumstances. Miles takes the time to understand what happened, review police reports and body camera footage, interview witnesses, and identify any constitutional violations that may have occurred during the investigation or arrest.

Common defense strategies in Virginia criminal cases include challenging the legality of a traffic stop or search, questioning the reliability of witness testimony, presenting alibi evidence, and negotiating reduced charges when the facts support it.

Consequences of a Criminal Conviction in Virginia

A criminal conviction in Virginia can affect much more than your immediate freedom. Potential consequences include:

Jail or prison time
Fines and court costs
A permanent criminal record visible on background checks
Loss of driving privileges
Difficulty finding employment or housing
Loss of professional licenses
Immigration consequences for non-citizens
Loss of firearm rights for felony convictions

Because the stakes are high, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side from the earliest stage of your case is critical.

Schedule a Free Consultation

If you or someone you know is facing criminal charges in Stafford, Fredericksburg, or anywhere in Northern Virginia, schedule a free consultation with Miles Franklin to discuss your case and learn about your options. You can also call (276) 773-6102 to speak with the office directly.

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Stafford, VA

Cases We Handle