Traffic & Criminal Defense

If you’re facing criminal charges, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed, anxious, and uncertain about your future. A criminal accusation can jeopardize your freedom, your reputation, and even your livelihood. At Tarris Law, we understand what’s at stake, and we’re here to protect your rights and fight for your future. With extensive experience in criminal defense and a deep understanding of constitutional rights, we are committed to providing the aggressive, compassionate representation you deserve.

Why Choose Tarris Law for Your Defense?

When facing criminal charges, selecting the right attorney can make all the difference. At Tarris Law, we bring a unique approach to every case, focusing on protecting your constitutional rights while building a powerful defense tailored to your situation. Here’s some of our notable cases:

• Published Opinion for his client by the VIRGINIA COURT OF APPEALS including a finding that a Circuit Court Judge violated an order of the Supreme Court of Virginia in a pro bono case.
• Had client acquitted by judge after he was incorrectly identified and falsely charged with armed robbery of a police officer's daughter and holding her and her infant child at gun point, the daughter later admitted my client wasn't the same person who robbed her.
• Had a reckless driving case dismissed on motion to strike where a patrolling officer testified that my client ran her patrol car off the road when the officer was in a blind spot.
• Had client acquitted by judge of breaking and entering when he was found naked in a strangers' home due to being stranded and wet where the door was left open.
• Had clients drug possession case dismissed on motion to suppress when the dog sniff held invalid and evidence was suppressed due to poor training for proper drugs.
• Had client's 105/65 mph reckless driving charge dismissed.
• Had client's evidence suppressed for unreasonable suspicion where a police officer testified that he witnessed a drug transaction and found drugs after searching client's vehicle.
• Have reached numerous settlements to have charged dropped or reduced including manslaughter, malicious wounding, construction fraud, larceny, and embezzlement.

Virginia’s criminal justice system is complex, and the penalties for criminal convictions are severe. We defend clients against a variety of criminal charges, including:

• Drug Crimes: From possession to trafficking, we defend against all drug-related charges, challenging evidence and protecting your rights. 
• Underage and Alcohol Offenses. We particularly care about representing young offenders for making mistakes they can learn from.
• Theft and Fraud: We represent clients accused of theft, larceny, shoplifting, embezzlement, and fraud, working to reduce or dismiss charges.
• Assault and Violent Crimes: Charges like assault, battery, and domestic violence carry significant consequences, and we are dedicated to protecting your freedom and reputation.
• Reckless Driving, DUI and Traffic Offenses: DUI and reckless driving charges can impact your driving privileges, insurance, and career. We fight to protect your record and minimize penalties.
• White Collar Crimes: White collar offenses like embezzlement, forgery, and cybercrimes can have serious consequences. We use our understanding of complex financial and digital matters to build a strong defense.
• Weapons and Hunting Charges: From unlawful possession to concealed carry violations, we defend clients facing a range of firearm-related charges.

In criminal defense, protecting your constitutional rights is paramount. Many people facing criminal charges are unaware that their rights may have been violated during their arrest, search, or questioning. At Tarris Law, we have a thorough understanding of constitutional protections and a commitment to ensuring they are upheld in every case.

• Second Amendment Rights. Protects your rights to use a firearm for protection, if a law violates this right it may be found void.
• Fourth Amendment Rights: Protects you from unreasonable searches and seizures. If evidence was obtained without a warrant or probable cause, we may be able to have it excluded from your case.
• Fifth Amendment Rights: Protects against self-incrimination and ensures due process. We work to ensure that you are not coerced or intimidated into waiving these critical rights.
• Sixth Amendment Rights: Guarantees the right to a fair and speedy trial, effective legal representation, and the right to confront witnesses. We are dedicated to ensuring that your defense is conducted fairly and competently.

If law enforcement has violated any of these rights, we will fight to have the charges reduced or dismissed based on constitutional grounds.

If you’re facing criminal charges, your actions in the immediate aftermath can significantly impact your case. Here’s what you should do to protect yourself:

1. Exercise Your Right to Remain Silent: Anything you say can and will be used against you in court. Politely decline to answer questions until your attorney is present.
2. Request an Attorney: Ask to speak with an attorney before answering any questions. Having a lawyer on your side from the beginning ensures that your rights are protected and strengthens your defense.
3. Document the Incident: Write down any details you remember about the arrest or questioning, including the names of officers involved and any interactions that may have been inappropriate.
4. Avoid Discussing Your Case with Others: Refrain from discussing your case with friends, family, or on social media. Anything shared could be used by the prosecution.

Every case is unique, and at Tarris Law, we develop a customized defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your situation. Potential defenses include:

• Lack of Evidence: We challenge the prosecution to prove every element of the charge beyond a reasonable doubt. If evidence is weak or circumstantial, we may move for a dismissal.
• Unlawful Search and Seizure: If law enforcement conducted an illegal search, we could seek to have the evidence suppressed, making it inadmissible in court.
• Mistaken Identity or Alibi: Misidentification is common in criminal cases. We gather evidence and witnesses to confirm your whereabouts and prove you were not involved in the alleged crime.
• Lack of Intent: Many criminal charges require proof of intent. If intent cannot be established, we may be able to reduce or dismiss the charges.
• Entrapment: If law enforcement induced you to commit a crime you would not have otherwise committed, we can argue entrapment as a defense.

Facing criminal charges can feel isolating and intimidating, but you don’t have to face it alone. At Tarris Law, we are more than just your legal representation; we are your partners in defense. We are committed to giving you the support, understanding, and aggressive representation you deserve. Our mission is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that we are working tirelessly to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case.

If you or a loved one is facing criminal charges, contact Tarris Law today for a consultation. We are here to answer your questions, discuss your options, and begin building a defense strategy tailored to your needs. Don’t let a criminal charge define your future—reach out to Tarris Law and take the first step toward protecting your rights and reclaiming your life.