Criminal Defense Lawyer Fairfax County
Former Prosecutors Fighting for You
AtCarroll & Nuttall, we approach each case with the focus of a criminal defense attorney and the mindset of a prosecutor. Attorneys John F. Carroll and EdwIf you’re facing criminal charges in Fairfax County,ard J. Nuttall both served in the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office of Fairfax County, where they prosecuted the same types of cases they now defend against in court.
Today, our entire team uses the skills we gained as former prosecutors to strategically prepare cases and zealously defend our clients in state and federal courts throughout Fairfax and surrounding communities.
The experience of working within the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office has provided valuable insight into the inner workings of the prosecution, allowing us to anticipate their tactics and move proactively to counter them. Our strategy involves comprehensive pre-trial investigations, meticulous reviews of evidence, and robust defense arguments that aim to uphold your rights at every stage. This preparation ensures that when we step into the courtroom, we are ready to fight for the best possible outcome for you.
If you’re facing criminal charges in Fairfax County, call us at (703) 952-5801 or contact us online to start working with our attorneys today.
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Ed and team are simply AMAZING!!!! I feel so blessed that God put them in our path. Super knowledgeable, kind, and honorable. They are very respected in the courts.- Nicole M.
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Tim is an outstanding attorney who works hard to achieve the best results for his clients. He is a formidable advocate and very nice to work with!- Amy W.
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“Incredible, thanks to Carroll & Nuttall, P.C.; my family is at peace knowing that justice was served.”- Former Client
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“He is an outstanding attorney who cares for his clients and fights strenuously for their cause. I have recommended countless clients to him because I believe in the high quality service he provides.”- Principal
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“A good lawyer is the key to the dispute like starting pitcher in the world series. Unbelievable results with a killer instinct to interrogate the claimant.”- Former Client
Defense for Felony Charges in Fairfax County
If you are arrested on a felony warrant in Virginia, you have a statutory right to a preliminary hearing. If you have been indicted for a felony in Virginia, then you will proceed to trial in the circuit court.
We regularly defend clients in Fairfax County facing these felony charges:
- Felony assault—malicious and unlawful wounding. These serious violent crimes can lead to lengthy prison sentences.
- Burglary. A conviction may carry significant penalties and often involves enhancements for use of weapons or violence.
- Distribution of drugs—Schedules I and II. Drug offenses are prosecuted aggressively in Virginia and can result in a felony record.
- Distribution of marijuana. Legal standards for prosecution have evolved, but you can still face harsh consequences for larger quantities or intent to distribute.
- Hit and run. Leaving the scene of an accident is treated severely by Fairfax County prosecutors.
- Homicide—murder in the 1st degree/2nd degree. These charges are among the most serious and require a detail-oriented defense.
- Manslaughter. Involuntary or voluntary charges come with unique defenses and risks.
- Parole and probation revocations. The consequences of a revocation can result in serving the original term of incarceration.
- Larceny and embezzlement. Property crimes include severe penalties if convicted.
- DWI, 3rd or subsequent. Multiple DUI convictions in Virginia significantly raise jail time and license suspension risks.
- Computer crimes, including child pornography and financial crimes. Convictions for computer crimes are increasing in complexity as technology evolves.
- Rape. Sex crime allegations carry both criminal and social consequences.
To better understand how we approach cases involving violent offenses, visit our page on violent crime cases.
For drug-related matters, you can also review our information on drug offense matters.
Each felony charge carries its own set of legal challenges that require nuanced understanding and strategic thinking. At Carroll & Nuttall, we develop personalized defense plans that consider the specifics of the charge and your personal circumstances. We are committed to safeguarding your rights at every stage, from initial hearings through to potential jury trials, ensuring that all aspects of due process are respected.
Make sure the criminal defense lawyer you choose has handled the type of case you are now facing. Our Fairfax criminal defense attorneys have represented individuals in all of the types of charges listed above. Please contact us at (703) 952-5801 so we can discuss what we can do for you regarding the felony charge(s) you are facing.
Felonies in Virginia come in six (6) separate classes. The class represents the range of punishment. If you review the warrant, it will tell you what class felony you are facing. The classifications and corresponding punishments can be viewed here.
DUI in Virginia / Reckless Driving in Virginia
Virginia’s DUI laws are some of the toughest in the nation. It is important to have an experienced advocate help you through the trial process. For more information on this area of law, you can review our page on DUI defense information.
Since 2004, an individual convicted of DUI with a BAC of .15 was mandated to serve a mandatory minimum five-day jail sentence. That same individual with a .21 BAC must serve a mandatory minimum ten-day jail sentence.
In every legislative session since, the DUI laws and procedures have been changed to make it tougher on those charged. In addition, tougher laws are accompanied by tougher enforcement. If you find yourself charged with a DUI, contact a criminal defense lawyer with experience.
Defending against DUI charges requires an in-depth understanding of both the legal and scientific aspects involved. Our lawyers at Carroll & Nuttall analyze the details of field sobriety tests, breathalyzer procedures, and arrest methodologies to ensure that your rights are protected throughout the process. This informed approach aims to challenge the prosecution's case wherever flaws are found and seek reductions or dismissal of charges where possible.
Reckless Driving in Virginia
DUI and reckless driving are often connected, but in many instances have nothing to do with each other. Many times, a DUI can be reduced to a reckless driving charge by agreement between the government and your lawyer.
Reckless driving can be charged for someone that an officer believes is driving in a manner which endangers life, limb, or property.
Common reckless driving situations in Virginia include:- Faulty brakes. Vehicle defects that lead to dangerous operation.
- Passing on crest of a grade or curve. Risky maneuvers that reduce driver visibility and reaction time.
- Driving with view obstructed. Any action where cargo or damage affects a driver’s ability to see the road or surroundings.
- Passing two vehicles abreast. Attempting to overtake more than one vehicle at once.
- Driving two abreast in a single lane. Sharing a single lane side-by-side, which violates Virginia road rules.
- Passing at a railroad crossing. Dangerous overtaking where lines of sight and speed are unpredictable.
- Passing a stopped school bus. Violating laws intended to protect children’s safety near schools.
- Failure to give proper signal. Not indicating turns or lane changes, which puts other drivers at risk.
- Driving too fast for conditions. Speeding in poor weather or traffic circumstances.
- Reckless driving in a parking lot. Unsafe behavior in private or commercial parking areas.
Reckless driving charges in Virginia are serious and can have lasting repercussions. At Carroll & Nuttall, we focus on creating a detailed defense strategy tailored to the specifics of your case. This may include negotiating with prosecutors to reduce charges or presenting compelling arguments for leniency in court. By understanding the evidence and utilizing skilled negotiation tactics, we work to protect your driving record and personal freedom.
The connection between all of these offenses is that they constitute reckless driving, which means they carry a maximum jail sentence of up to 12 months and a maximum license loss of six months. A conviction for reckless driving is a six-demerit-point offense with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles.
Contact Carroll & Nuttall, PLLC and ask about the trial options available to you. We can be reached at (703) 952-5801 or contact us online to get started.
