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Experienced. Dedicated. Compassionate.
WHY YOU NEED A SKILLED VIRGINIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY
Facing criminal charges is never a welcomed experience. Instead of being scared, you can be prepared by calling our Richmond based criminal defense lawyer. A criminal defense attorney who’s experienced, knowledgeable, and caring will be an invaluable resource as you work together to build your case and prepare a strong defense. Facing criminal charges is a scary and stressful experience. A criminal conviction can affect you for the rest of your life, harming your employment opportunities, family life, educational prospects, and even your fundamental liberties. A criminal conviction can mean jail time, expensive fines, and long-term damage to your reputation and future.
Attorney Cody Villalon is dedicated to the defense and well-being of his clients. You should never have to face criminal charges alone. Instead, let a criminal defense lawyer who’s tough yet compassionate help guide you through whatever challenges and charges you face. Call Richmond criminal defense attorney Cody Villalon at 804.316.0765 to discuss your defense and receive a free consultation about your case anywhere in central Virginia.
Your Best Defense
OUR EXPERT VIRGINIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER CAN HELP YOU
Criminal defense Attorney Cody Villalon, in Richmond, VA can ensure that you fully understand not only the consequences of conviction but also the best path forward and best defense strategy available. Our criminal defense lawyer serving Richmond and surrounding areas can guide you through each stage of your case with the goal of minimizing and fighting your charges. The Commonwealth of Virginia has trained law enforcement officers, expert witnesses, and career prosecutors who will be eager to oppose you at trial. But our experienced criminal lawyer based in Richmond can level the playing field in court. When you work with Cody Villalon, you will be represented by a criminal defense lawyer who will treat you with dignity while helping you make informed decisions for your future.
Murder/Homicide/Manslaughter
In the face of murder/homicide or manslaughter charges, our experienced attorney will thoroughly assess the evidence and navigate the legal proceedings with unwavering commitment, standing by your side during this challenging time.
Gun Charges
If you’re facing a difficult situation and require legal assistance for gun charges, Cody Villalon is here to support you. Engaging his services as your gun lawyer, he will provide clarity on your charges and work diligently to achieve swift and favorable resolutions.
Felony Charges
Whether you’re facing a current felony charge or have concerns about potential charges, your apprehension is entirely valid. The consequences for such offenses are substantial, and the mere act of being charged can cast enduring effects on you and your family’s future.
DUI
Being caught driving under the influence can come with harsh penalties. If you are pulled over and charged with a DUI, you could face some significant penalties, and having legal support by your side is very important.
Assault & Battery
If you or a loved one is confronted with an assault charge in Virginia, it’s crucial to consult a skilled Richmond assault lawyer. The process of facing a criminal charge ranks among the most anxiety-inducing experiences a person can undergo.
Schedule I or II Drugs
Virginia drug laws are especially strict. Arrests can be made for drug possession, manufacturing, distribution, or possession with the intent to manufacture or distribute. Even simple possession of many substances can be a felony. If you have been accused of a drug crime, you need a skilled defense attorney to fight for your rights and your freedom.
Types of Criminal Charges in Virginia
OUR VIRGINIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER WANTS YOU TO UNDERSTAND POSSIBLE OUTCOMES
Let Our Criminal Defense
Lawyer in Richmond, VA
Address Your Charges
If you’re facing a misdemeanor, felony, or other type of criminal charge, things can quickly get confusing. The legal system pushes paperwork and confusing terminology onto people charged with crimes. If you’re facing criminal charges, you might not know what to expect, and processes can quickly get overwhelming. Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side ensures that your rights are not violated and that you do not say or do anything that could hurt your defense and gives you the best chances at avoiding conviction.
DON’T WAIT TO CALL AN EXPERIENCED VIRGINIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER. YOUR FREEDOMS AND FUTURE ARE AT STAKE.
Promptly hiring a criminal defense lawyer serving Richmond and surrounding areas, means getting help with all the paperwork, filings, and bureaucratic processes of a criminal conviction. More importantly, it means that our criminal defense lawyer can begin learning about you and your situation in order to plan your defense and help you figure out next steps.
Why Call Richmond Criminal Defense Attorney Cody Villalon?
It isn’t hard to find criminal lawyers in Richmond with impressive records of successfully defending those accused of crimes. It also isn’t hard to find criminal defense lawyers in Virginia who are part of a large legal team that’s known throughout Richmond’s courtrooms. But finding a Richmond criminal defense lawyer who’s compassionate, always makes time for clients, and handles all of his cases himself is a great asset when you need help.
The ramifications of any criminal charge can be devastating to your future and reputation. However, some crimes, in the eyes of the law, are considered worse than others. Our criminal defense lawyer based in Richmond, VA, is prepared to offer a serious and strategic defense for common crimes and all types of criminal charges. However, understanding misdemeanors and felonies, among other types of charges, can be useful to anyone charged with crimes falling under these classifications.
Felony Charges
Felonies are the most serious criminal charges, reserved for more severe crimes. Felonies can often involve serious physical harm or the threat of serious harm, although drug-related crimes, white-collar crime, and other crimes can also be classified as felonies. A crime is considered a felony if the punishment includes potentially spending a year or more in prison. Serious felonies can potentially involve hundreds of thousands of dollars in fines and potential life sentences.
Felony convictions have serious, life-long implications beyond potential prison sentences. In Virginia, a felony on your record prohibits you from voting or holding public office and can take away your right to own a firearm. It can also pose significant obstacles to obtaining a job and finding housing, among other difficulties. Examples of felonies include:
- Possession or distribution of certain controlled substances
- Malicious wounding
- Robbery
- Rape
- A third DUI
Misdemeanor Criminal Charges
Misdemeanor charges are less severe than felony charges, but they still carry serious consequences such as jail time, fines, and a damaging criminal record. Misdemeanor convictions can still hinder future employment opportunities, financial loan applications, housing options, and even personal relationships. Such crimes can show up on a background check.
Like felonies, misdemeanors are classified based on a crime’s severity. Penalties for misdemeanors often include up to a year in jail and a fine of up to $2,500. Misdemeanors can include crimes such as:
- Obstruction
- Some types of theft, such as shoplifting
- Disorderly conduct
- Petit larceny
- Assault and battery
Attorney Cody Villalon genuinely cares about your well-being. He wants to work with you to have your charges dropped, and, more importantly, he wants to help you. Whether you’re in Richmond or surrounding counties, give him a call at 804.316.0765.
Why Clients Choose Cody
A VIRGINIA CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY WHO CARES
- Effective at trial
- Exclusively practice criminal and traffic defense
- Honest, straightforward advice
- Skilled negotiator
- Solo practitioner: your case will never be handed off to another attorney
- Reasonable, flat rate prices mean no guessing on costs
- Compassionate advocacy
- Confident and experienced in the courtroom
- Committed to prompt return of calls and email
About Attorney Cody Villalon
RICHMOND, VA CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
I am a criminal defense attorney because I firmly believe everyone deserves to be treated with basic human dignity. No matter where people come from or what they are accused of doing, everyone deserves this basic level of respect. I also believe in the Constitution. We are guaranteed rights under the law, and our rights exist only as long as there are people who are willing to defend them. I am proud of the work I do. Being a defense attorney is not just a job to me; it is what I do to serve our community and to fight for the type of world I want my own children to live in.
There are few feelings more thrilling than hearing the words “not guilty” in the courtroom. I love going to trial, arguing cases, and devising the strategy leading up to a successful defense. However, I also recognize that my duties as a criminal defense lawyer extend beyond the courtroom. I take my role as a Counselor at Law seriously. I often encounter clients who are facing more than just legal problems and who are genuinely suffering. I take a more holistic approach and try to encourage strategies that help them get their lives heading in a better direction. I genuinely care. That is not weakness — it is a point of pride.
The Extra Mile
Attorney Cody Villalon handles his clients’ cases himself. He puts in the time and dedication needed to prepare for trials and provide a solid legal defense, ensuring clients that he cares by always getting back to them. All of my clients are unique, and I work hard to understand their particular needs. Cody Villalon wants to do more than defend his clients — he wants to help them.
Client Testimonials
“Mr. Villalon is a beacon of hope to anyone seeking a criminal defense attorney. Not only will he advocate zealously on your behalf, but he will protect your rights, I recommend Mr. Villalon without reservation.” – Larry G.
“Cody, was amazing. He was always extremely quick to get back to me. Was very professional, walked me through everything step by step and in the end, my case was dismissed. Highly, highly recommend.” – Tyler B.
“Cody was amazing, he was very professional and quick to respond. He was very comfortable to talk to and you could tell he really cared. I was extremely pleased with my outcome and would highly recommend him. The best attorney I ever had.” – Donna S.
“I just had the BEST, most seamless and easy experience with Cody Villalon. My outcome was everything I needed to work in my favor! I highly recommend! Thank you for everything Cody, you were great!” – Erica T.
“Cody Villalon is the best lawyer I have spoken with. He is amazing. He got my son off on numerous offenses, he really cares about his clients as well as their well being. This man is THE BEST in My Book!” – Athena L.
“Mr. Villallon is a great lawyer. Always return calls and emails. He did an excellent job on my wife’s multiple charges. I highly recommend him. Thanks Cody we really appreciate everything you have done.” – Brite W.
Arrested? Here’s What to Know
WHY IT’S IMPORTANT TO CONTACT A VIRGINIA DEFENSE ATTORNEY IMMEDIATELY
Being arrested and charged with crimes is an unsettling process for anyone who is accused of criminal acts. But knowing what to do—and what not to do—following an arrest is critical to your defense. Arrests for misdemeanors and felonies often occur on the spot, meaning a person is immediately placed under arrest and taken into police custody. The process can be intimidating and humiliating, but it’s important to remember that being arrested is not the same as being convicted or even being charged with a crime.
While an arrest can be stressful and chaotic, it’s wise to think about how you can begin preparing your defense and not making matters any worse for yourself.
The Arrest Process in Richmond and Surrounding Areas
After an arrest, contacting a criminal defense attorney as soon as you’re able to is advisable. However, you won’t be able to begin calling criminal lawyers in Richmond, VA, right away. When you’re placed under arrest, you’ll be read Miranda Rights, which protect you against self-incrimination.
It’s absolutely critical not to share information with police that can be used to convict you of a crime.
After an arrest, you’ll be taken to the police station for processing. There, you will be brought before a magistrate. The magistrate will formally determine your charges based on police testimony and also determine your bond. After speaking with a magistrate, you will have the opportunity to call a Richmond criminal defense lawyer.
If you are denied bond or cannot make bond, you will be sent to the jail and be held for an arraignment. At an arraignment, a judge will advise you of your charges and of your right to hire a criminal defense attorney or to have one appointed to you.
What Not to Do After an Arrest
What you don’t say or do after being arrested can help keep your rights protected and your defense case strong. Be sure to avoid: (i) Making any verbal or written statements or disclosures to police or other inmates. This information can be used against you. (ii) Speaking to police after you’ve been read your Miranda Rights. As stated, you have the right to remain silent. (iii) Agreeing to speak with investigators prior to speaking with a criminal defense lawyer. (iv) Attempting to handle a situation on your own without full knowledge and understanding of the charges that you’re facing.
Contact a Criminal Defense Attorney You Can Trust
CALL RICHMOND, VA DEFENSE LAWYER CODY VILLALON
No matter what charges you face, you can still do what’s possible to prevent conviction, lessen your charges, and pursue an outcome that helps secure your future and protect your rights. Calling an experienced criminal defense lawyer right away is one of your best options. While you may have various criminal defense lawyers in the Richmond area, VA, to choose from, make your call count—choose a Richmond criminal defense attorney who’s experienced, caring, and prepared to help you. Attorney Cody Villalon handles his clients’ cases himself. He puts in the time and dedication needed to prepare for trials and provide a solid legal defense, ensuring clients that he cares by always getting back to them. Cody Villalon wants to do more than defend his clients — he wants to help them.
If you get only one call to a criminal defense lawyer, call Attorney at Law Cody Villalon at 804.316.0765.
