The potential consequences of a felony DUI charge in Richmond can have a significant and long-lasting impact on your life. A felony DUI attorney in Richmond can help prepare a vigorous fight to protect your rights and develop a solid defense. Cody Villalon, an experienced Richmond felony lawyer, can use his knowledge of Virginia’s felony DUI laws to provide you with aggressive and effective legal representation to have your felony charges reduced or to negotiate a lesser sentence.
Why Choose Cody Villalon to Represent You?
Cody Villalon is an experienced felony DUI lawyer with a proven track record of successfully defending clients facing felony DUI charges in Richmond and throughout Virginia. He understands the emotional and legal complexities of facing a felony charge and is committed to providing you with respect, support, and guidance. He will fight for your case’s best possible outcome and explore all available options to protect your rights and freedom.
How Cody Villalon Can Help Defend Your Felony DUI Charge
Felony DUI attorney Cody Villalon will tailor your defense strategies according to the unique characteristics of your case. He will:
- Conduct a thorough investigation
- Challenge the legality of your police stop
- Work with experts to challenge the prosecution’s evidence
- Negotiate with the prosecutor to reduce your charges or seek alternative sentencing options
- Prepare for trial and zealously represent you in court, if necessary.
Understanding Felony DUI in Virginia
Virginia takes driving under the influence very seriously and aggressively prosecutes DUIs. While a first-time offense with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) between 0.08% and 0.15% is generally considered a misdemeanor, there are aggravating factors that can result in your DUI being charged as a felony. These factors include:
- Multiple offenses: Driving under the influence three times within ten years is charged as a Class 6 felony (§ 18.2-270).
- Maiming: Driving under the influence that causes someone severe or permanent injuries is charged as a Class 6 felony (§ 18.2-51.4).
- Manslaughter: Driving under the influence that causes someone’s death is charged as a Class 5 felony. (§ 18.2-36.1).
Punishments for Felony DUI in Richmond
Punishments for felony DUI convictions in Virginia include mandatory fines and revocation of your driver’s license. Additional consequences of felony DUI may consist of the following:
- Imprisonment
- Installation of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
- Enrollment into the Virginia Alcohol Safety Action Program (VASAP)
- Impoundment or forfeiture of your vehicle
- Community service
- Restitution
- A criminal record
- Six demerit points on your driving record
- Increased car insurance rates
- Loss of employment
- Loss of professional licenses or certifications
- Loss of your right to own a firearm.
If you are facing felony DUI charges in Virginia, you need a criminal defense lawyer to protect your rights and attempt to obtain a lesser sentence or have your charges reduced.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it a crime if you do not consent to a breathalyzer test?
Under Code of Virginia § 18.2-268.2, you automatically agree to blood or breath testing when you obtain your driver’s license.
Is it illegal to operate a boat under the influence?
Yes, in Virginia, you can be charged with felony DUI if you cause someone’s death while operating a boat or watercraft while under the influence.
How long does a felony DUI stay on your records in Virginia?
A felony DUI charge will remain on your driving record for 11 years and on your criminal record forever.
Is it possible to have a felony DUI expunged from your criminal record?
Unfortunately, the only way to have a felony DUI expunged from your record is to have the charges against you dropped, have your case dismissed, or be found not guilty at trial.
Do you need a felony DUI lawyer?
Yes, you need to hire a felony DUI attorney because the consequences are severe, the legal process is complex, and lawyers for felony DUI can fight for the best possible outcome.
Contact Our Felony DUI Lawyer in Richmond Today
If you are facing a felony DUI charge in Richmond or the surrounding area, do not wait to seek legal representation. The consequences of a felony DUI conviction can be severe and long-term, impacting your freedom, finances, and future opportunities. Contact Cody Villalon today at (804) 316-0765 to schedule a confidential consultation to discuss how he can provide you with the aggressive legal representation you need to protect your rights and future.
DEFENSE ATTORNEY CODY VILLALON
Cody Villalon is a criminal defense attorney in Richmond, VA representing clients accused of violent offenses and DUIs, and he specializes in serious criminal charges. He possesses more than 10 years of legal experience, has defended more than 1,000 cases, and has spent more than 5,000 hours in court. He is highly professional and well-respected by prosecutors and judges. [ Attorney Bio ]
