On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Oct 30, 2020 | Criminal Defense
Drug charges have a certain stigma attached to them. As a result, mere allegations can be damaging to your reputation. A criminal conviction on drug charges can be disastrous, affecting your freedom, your finances, your career, and your potential for the future. With...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Oct 6, 2020 | Criminal Defense
Many criminal assaults are the result of spontaneous outbursts of anger. When the anger fades, the would-be assaulter usually calms down. Many people who might commit an assault are willing, after the violent urges subside, to talk to police and to allow themselves to...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Sep 21, 2020 | Criminal Defense
While it might not be pleasant to think about it, it is really pretty easy to get charged with a crime related to domestic violence. In some cases, too much alcohol or just a really stressful set of circumstances can lead to a resident of Northern Virginia acting out...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Aug 14, 2020 | Criminal Defense
In Virginia, the law treats white collar crimes in a harsh way. You may experience everything from time behind bars to enormous fines if convicted. Facing fraud charges is a scary experience because of that, especially if you do not know what to expect. And what...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Jul 31, 2020 | Criminal Defense
Rather than take a defendant all the way to trial and add another case to a crowded docket, a prosecutor may offer a plea deal. The American Bar Association explains that the deal usually has some aspect that makes it appealing, such as offering a lesser charge, fewer...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Jul 8, 2020 | Criminal Defense
The law states that the consumption of alcohol is illegal for anyone under the age of 21. Getting behind the wheel after drinking can also lead to charges of driving under the influence. Driving after drinking when you are not legally allowed to drink leads to serious...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Jun 24, 2020 | Criminal Defense
All states have strict laws against drunk driving. However, it is important to understand how the laws are different between states. For instance, in Virginia the law requires you to install an ignition interlock device for all offenses, even the first one. It is...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Jun 10, 2020 | Criminal Defense
For drivers pulled over for speeding in Virginia, a fine and points off their license are the typical consequences. However, there are specific circumstances under which exceeding the speeding limit can result in a misdemeanor on your record. If convicted, you may...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | May 11, 2020 | Criminal Defense
When you get pulled over for speeding or other reckless behavior, you may hear your Miranda Rights read out loud by an official. Knowing the meaning of these rights and when they are applicable is important for your safety. The definition Miranda Rights encompass...
On behalf of Schmergel & Mersberger, PLC | Mar 30, 2020 | Criminal Defense
Evidence obtained at the scene of the crime, on the suspect or on the victim is processed using a number of forensic methods. This information is then presented to the court, usually by a scientific expert. The way in which the evidence is collected, processed, tested...
