If you’ve been arrested for DUI in Richmond or the surrounding areas, you likely have a lot of questions—and more than a few fears. You may be worried about your driver’s license, your job, your criminal record, or even your freedom. These concerns are valid.
A DUI charge in Virginia is a serious matter with consequences that can follow you long after the case is resolved.
In moments like these, hiring an experienced DUI defense lawyer is one of the most important decisions you can make. The right attorney can protect your rights, fight for the best possible outcome, and guide you through what may be one of the most difficult experiences of your life.
Cody Villalon is a Richmond-based criminal defense attorney who has spent more than a decade helping clients accused of DUI offenses. He knows the courts, the law, and how to challenge the evidence against you. If you’ve been charged with DUI in Virginia, call Cody for a free consultation at 804.316.0765.
Cody Villalon Knows How to Defend DUI Cases in Richmond
Not all criminal defense attorneys focus on DUI cases. DUI law is complex and constantly evolving, with specific procedures, scientific testing, and legal nuances that require a deep understanding.
For over ten years, Cody Villalon has defended individuals across Richmond and Central Virginia charged with driving under the influence. Whether this is your first offense or you have a prior DUI, Cody provides direct, honest advice and an aggressive defense.
He is recognized for his responsiveness, clarity, and dedication to providing personalized service. When you hire Cody, you work directly with him, not a junior associate or paralegal. He handles every aspect of your case, from start to finish, with the skill and attention it deserves.
Frequently Asked Questions: How Can a DUI Lawyer Help My Case
Individuals facing DUI charges have a lot of questions, many of which focus on how a DUI lawyer can help their case. Below are several more specific concerns and Cody’s responses.
How can a DUI lawyer help if it’s my first offense?
Even if this is your first DUI, the penalties can be significant—jail time, fines, a suspended license, and a permanent criminal record. Many first-time offenders think they can handle their situations themselves, but DUI cases are not as straightforward as they seem.
Hiring a first-time DUI lawyer can make a major difference. You can rely on this professional to evaluate every detail of your arrest in order to identify constitutional violations, challenge weak evidence, and negotiate with prosecutors. Your DUI attorney can also help you pursue first-offender programs or alternative sentencing that may not be obvious or accessible without legal guidance.
What specific steps will a DUI lawyer take to strengthen my case?
Cody Villalon takes a comprehensive approach to building DUI defenses, including:
- Investigating the stop: Was there probable cause to pull you over? If not, key evidence may be inadmissible.
- Challenging field sobriety tests: These tests are often subjective and can be administered incorrectly.
- Scrutinizing chemical tests: Cody knows how to identify issues with improperly calibrated breathalyzers or flawed blood analyses.
- Negotiating with prosecutors: He may be able to get your charges reduced or even dismissed.
- Protecting your license: Cody can represent you in DMV hearings and advocate for you to maintain your driving privileges.
- Represent you in court: From filing motions to arguing your case at trial, Cody is prepared every step of the way.
Your DUI lawyer works tirelessly, both in and out of court, to protect your freedom and your future.
How can a lawyer help if I refused the breath test?
Refusing a breath test in Virginia can result in automatic license suspension due to the state’s implied consent law. But that doesn’t mean your situation is hopeless.
Cody Villalon has experience challenging refusal cases. He’ll review whether the officer clearly explained your rights and whether the initial stop was even lawful. As a skilled DUI attorney, he can argue to suppress evidence and, in some cases, mitigate the consequences of a refusal, especially if police protocol was not upheld.
Can a DUI lawyer get my charges dismissed?
In some cases, DUI charges may be dismissed, but not without a strong legal strategy. Cody Villalon meticulously reviews every detail of the case to uncover weaknesses that could lead to dismissal, including illegal stops, flawed tests, or mishandled evidence.
Dismissals rarely happen without effort. A DUI lawyer should work to proactively find grounds to challenge the charges and fight for dismissal where justified. Cody Villalon leverages his knowledge of local courts and prosecutors to push for dismissal when appropriate.
What can a DUI lawyer do to help me keep my driver’s license?
Losing your license can disrupt your job, your family life, and your independence. A DUI conviction in Virginia leads to automatic suspension, but a DUI lawyer can help limit the damage.
Cody Villalon understands how to petition for restricted licenses, challenge administrative suspensions, and explore license-saving options through the courts. He’ll guide you through the process of retaining limited driving privileges and ensure every deadline and requirement is met.
How can a DUI lawyer help if I already have a prior DUI?
Having a prior DUI on your record increases the penalties significantly—longer jail sentences, extended license suspensions, and in some cases, felony charges.
Cody Villalon approaches repeat offenses with urgency and strategic care. He’ll assess whether prior convictions were handled properly, explore whether new charges can be reduced, and fight aggressively to avoid the worst penalties. He also helps clients explore treatment programs or alternatives that could improve outcomes.
Cody is available to meet with you to address more specific questions regarding your situation. Reach out and schedule a free consultation as soon as possible.
Facing a DUI Charge in Richmond? Get Help Now
A DUI arrest is more than just a traffic stop. It’s a criminal charge that can impact your job, your finances, your relationships, and your future. What you do next matters. Time is incredibly valuable. Call Cody Villalon right away at 804.316.0765.
Cody understands how overwhelming this process can feel. He takes the time to explain your options clearly and offers aggressive, personalized representation aimed at minimizing the damage to your life. He knows the local court system, the judges, and the prosecutors—and he is committed to minimizing the impact of this event on your life.
You Deserve a Strong Defense
Contact Cody Villalon Today
Cody’s solo practice means you always know who is handling your case. There’s no handoff to a junior attorney or paralegal. You’ll always be able to reach him directly and get honest answers to your questions.
He believes that everyone—regardless of their background or the charges against them—deserves top-quality defense. His goal is to help you manage the legal process and move forward with your life.
The decisions you make after a DUI arrest can change the course of your case.
Waiting too long to hire an attorney could cost you opportunities to fight the charge or save your license. Call Cody Villalon at 804.316.0765 today for a free, confidential consultation. Let him start protecting your rights and fighting for your best outcome—right now.
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 15 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 ]
