BATTLEFIELD BLOG

What Counts as Stalking in Virginia? Understanding Va. Code § 18.2-60.3
Stalking, Criminal Defense Kari Newton Stalking, Criminal Defense Kari Newton

What Counts as Stalking in Virginia? Understanding Va. Code § 18.2-60.3

Stalking charges in Virginia can arise from repeated contact, digital communication, or even misunderstandings between two people. Under Va. Code § 18.2-60.3, stalking is a serious criminal offense that can lead to jail time and protective orders. Battlefield Law Group defends clients across Northern Virginia, including Prince William and Fairfax Counties, helping protect their rights and reputations.

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Fairfax DUI Stops: Can Police Search Your Car?
DUI/DWI, DUID, Fairfax County DUI Kari Newton DUI/DWI, DUID, Fairfax County DUI Kari Newton

Fairfax DUI Stops: Can Police Search Your Car?

During a DUI stop in Fairfax County, police don’t always need your permission to search your car. From inventory searches after an arrest to the plain view doctrine, several legal exceptions allow officers to look inside your vehicle. Learn when a search may be unlawful, and how Battlefield Law Group can help protect your rights and your license if you’re facing DUI charges.

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Can You Be Arrested if You Blow Under .08 in Virginia?
DUI/DWI, Prince William County Kari Newton DUI/DWI, Prince William County Kari Newton

Can You Be Arrested if You Blow Under .08 in Virginia?

Many drivers believe blowing under .08 means they can’t be arrested for DUI in Virginia. That’s a dangerous myth. Even a low roadside breath test can give police probable cause to arrest you for further testing. Learn why the Preliminary Breath Test is voluntary, how Virginia’s Implied Consent Law applies, and what this means for Prince William County drivers.

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Do Teens Have to Consent to a Police Search in Virginia? What Parents Should Know
Know Your Rights, Juvenile Rights Kari Newton Know Your Rights, Juvenile Rights Kari Newton

Do Teens Have to Consent to a Police Search in Virginia? What Parents Should Know

Most teens don’t realize they have the right to say, “I do not consent to a search.” In Virginia, police generally need probable cause or a warrant to search personal property like backpacks or cars, though lockers and desks at school are treated differently. Parents can play a key role in teaching their children how to assert their rights and avoid charges involving drugs, alcohol, or paraphernalia.

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Agree or Disagree: Courtroom Perspectives with Trial Attorney Steve Duckett
Steve Duckett, Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI Kari Newton Steve Duckett, Criminal Defense, DUI/DWI Kari Newton

Agree or Disagree: Courtroom Perspectives with Trial Attorney Steve Duckett

In our Agree or Disagree series, Battlefield Law Group partner Steven L. Duckett, Jr. shares candid courtroom insights from more than 25 years of criminal defense work in Northern Virginia. From witness preparation and jury strategy to the art of cross-examination, Steve explains what really matters in Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, Alexandria, and surrounding counties, and why courtroom experience makes all the difference.

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Felonies and Misdemeanors in Virginia: Penalties, Classes, and Consequences
Criminal Defense Kari Newton Criminal Defense Kari Newton

Felonies and Misdemeanors in Virginia: Penalties, Classes, and Consequences

In Virginia, the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony comes down to the severity of the offense, the potential penalties, and the long-term consequences. Misdemeanors are punishable by up to 12 months in jail, while felonies can carry prison sentences of a year or more, steep fines, and loss of certain civil rights. Understanding how your charge is classified is the first step in protecting your future.

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No ID, No Conviction
Criminal Defense Kari Newton Criminal Defense Kari Newton

No ID, No Conviction

When the prosecution failed to prove the identity of the accused, attorney Lili O’Connell secured a dismissal for her client. In Virginia criminal cases, the Commonwealth must prove every element, including who actually committed the crime. This case is a powerful reminder that details matter and skilled defense can make all the difference.

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Sleeping in Your Car After Drinking? Why You Could Still Face a DUI Charge in Virginia
DUI/DWI, Criminal Defense Kari Newton DUI/DWI, Criminal Defense Kari Newton

Sleeping in Your Car After Drinking? Why You Could Still Face a DUI Charge in Virginia

You might think sleeping in your car after a night of drinking is the safe choice, but in Virginia, it could still get you arrested for DUI. In this blog, attorney Nicole Naum of Battlefield Law Group explains how “physical control” laws work and what you need to know to avoid turning a responsible decision into a criminal charge.

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Are Field Sobriety Tests Required in Virginia? What You Should Know During a DUI Stop

Are Field Sobriety Tests Required in Virginia? What You Should Know During a DUI Stop

Field sobriety tests are widely used during DUI stops in Virginia, but they’re not as reliable or required as many drivers think. Learn how these tests work, why they’re flawed, and what rights you have if you're pulled over. Battlefield Law Group breaks down the key facts every driver should know.

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