Richmond First-Time DUI Lawyer – Getting Help When You Need It Most
Good people make unfortunate decisions and need help to resolve their consequences. This happens every day. However, when your mistake involves getting behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, the help you need is a lot more specialized. Even if this is your first offense, you should not manage the associated legal process on your own; penalties for conviction can impact your life and that of your family.
Understanding this, it makes sense to engage a criminal defense attorney who is well-versed in DUI law and has a record of success in managing cases involving first-time offenders. Cody Villalon is well-known, in Richmond and the surrounding area, for his legal acumen and client service approach. For many, he is the first call in times of trouble.
If you have been arrested and charged with a first-time DUI, contact Cody right away. He can be reached at 804-316-0765 and is ready to go to work for you immediately. You don’t have the luxury of time when accused of driving under the influence.
Cody Villalon, a First-Time DUI Lawyer, Is Well-Suited to Represent You
Recognizing What He Brings to Your Defense
Many believe that first-time offenses are not cause for concern; but when the offense is a DUI, being charged and convicted can impact the rest of your life. Because of the severity of the possible consequences, being proactive and engaging a seasoned Richmond DUI defense attorney should be the first thing you do.
You have choices when it comes to legal counsel. It is critical to work with an experienced and knowledgeable DUI attorney who knows how to handle cases like yours.
Cody Villalon is a seasoned professional with more than a decade of experience providing legal counsel to individuals accused of driving under the influence, including many for the first time.
He recognizes his responsibility is to protect, not to judge. This philosophy is the underlying tenet of everything he does.
While he leverages his experience in every case, he knows that no two are identical. He focuses on actively listening to your perspective of what happened, carefully reviewing all evidence, and personally interviewing any witnesses as he builds your defense.
Additionally, as a result of his long-standing presence in the Richmond community, he knows how the local courts operate and has developed strong working relationships with professionals in the legal community that prove beneficial in negotiations.
Because he values the importance of comfortability in a relationship between attorney and client, Cody offers free consultations to all individuals interested in working with him. During this meeting, he will learn more about your situation and can share how he would approach your case. You can see, firsthand, the respect with which he communicates and the commitment he has made to his community.
Cody’s passion for protecting his clients and his dedication to his work, along with his knowledge, experience, and approach, are why so many rely on him in times of trouble.
His clients know they can trust him to fight tirelessly on their behalf.
What Cody Will Do For You
He Provides Hands-on, Personal Case Management for Every Client
Nobody expects to be arrested for drunk driving, and first-time arrests are frightening. You cannot change the past, but what you do following your arrest is critical to paving the way for your future. As your Richmond first-time DUI attorney, Cody Villalon will personally handle every aspect of your case. As a sole practitioner, he prides himself on providing his clients the hands-on attention they need and deserve. He carefully manages his caseload to ensure he can continue to offer the outstanding service for which he is known.
Cody strives to protect your legal rights, navigate the complex legal system, and minimize the consequences of this situation on your life going forward. As your DUI attorney, he will:
- Listen carefully to your explanation of the events that led to your arrest and what followed
- Ensure the police follow appropriate procedures and uphold your rights
- Review all evidence including body cam footage, video or photos, and results of field sobriety tests and lab test reports ((breathalyzer and blood tests)
- Personally interview any witnesses
- Provide representation at your arraignment
- Assist with bail hearings.
Based on the evidence, he will request that charges be dropped or negotiate with the prosecution on your behalf. While most DUI cases can be settled during negotiations, Cody is always ready to take your case to trial. Whether or not to accept a plea bargain is your choice. While Cody will advise you, the final decision rests with you. Should your case go to trial, Cody will build a strong defense and tirelessly advocate for you. He also will manage any appeals when necessary.
In short, he handles everything. Knowing you have an attorney on whom you can rely on can alleviate some of your anxiety. Cody Villalon is on your side.
If you are facing first-time DUI charges, contact Cody Villalon immediately; the sooner you engage him, the sooner he can work on your case.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding First-Time DUI Charges
Providing the Answers You Need
Those charged with a DUI for the first time are likely overwhelmed; they don’t always understand the law or what to expect. Questions are common. Below, Cody Villalon has shared some of the concerns raised most often, along with his responses.
Are first-time DUI charges something to worry about?
Yes. While subsequent offenders face more stringent penalties, the impact of first-time convictions can be serious. Blood Alcohol Content (BAC) impacts the severity of the sentencing, with even the most minor offenders facing up to 12 months in jail, a fine of $250, an ignition lock for a minimum of 6 months, and a suspended license for up to a year. These penalties can have major life impacts.
If I was driving under the influence, should I confess to the police?
No, do not say anything until your Richmond DUI attorney arrives. You may unwittingly say something that incriminates you. Simply remain silent and request to contact your attorney.
My minor child was arrested and charged with a first-time DUI. What penalties are they facing?
Minors charged with a DUI for the first time usually face Class 1 misdemeanor charges. If found guilty, sentencing may include up to a year in jail and fines of up to $2,500. Virginia is a zero-tolerance state, so the minimum penalties include 50 hours of community service or a $500 fine and a 12-month license revocation, which would be in addition to the DMV mandatory administrative suspension of 7 days. Finally, this violation results in 6 points on their driver’s license, which could increase insurance premiums. Protect your child’s future and engage a juvenile defense attorney right away.
My minor child was convicted of a DUI and received a license suspension but needs to be able to drive to school. Do we have recourse?
Yes, you may pursue a restricted license by submitting a request. The courts and the DMV have final decision-making authority. Your first-time DUI attorney can help you with this process.
The concerns above are just a handful of questions we hear every day. Contact Cody Villalon at 804-316-0765 to discuss issues directly relating to your case.
First-Time DUI Charges Are Impactful
Contact Cody Villalon Today
First-time DUI charges can impact all aspects of how you live. Protecting yourself, your family, and your future must be your priority.
Engaging a seasoned first-time DUI lawyer is an important investment.
In times of trouble, you must act immediately. Having counsel by your side is critical as the legal process for DUIs in Virginia moves quickly. Cody Villalon understands the needs of individuals in this position; he is ready to go to work for you immediately and provide quality representation for the entirety of your case.
For a free consultation, contact him today at 804-316-0765 and learn how he would approach your situation.
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 ]
