JUVENILE & TEEN CRIMINAL DEFENSE

How We Defend Teens and Young Adults

Our attorneys don’t just react, we create a plan. Every case is different, and we take the time to review the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present alternatives that convince the court to consider lighter penalties.

• Evidence Review: Challenging radar calibration, field sobriety tests, searches, or officer testimony.

• Negotiation with Prosecutors: Seeking reductions to lesser charges such as improper driving, speeding, or diversion programs.

• Proactive Steps: Guiding clients through driving school, rehab, community service, or counseling before court.

• Protecting the Future: Presenting mitigation to minimize long-term consequences for education, careers, and driving privileges.

Example: Reckless Driving Defense Strategy

Reckless driving under Va. Code § 46.2-868 is a Class 1 misdemeanor, a criminal charge with potential jail time, fines up to $2,500, and license suspension.

Our attorneys defend reckless driving cases by:

• Negotiating with prosecutors for reduction to improper driving under Va. Code § 46.2-869 (an infraction, not a crime).

• Pursuing reductions to speeding tickets when facts support it.

• Recommending proactive driver improvement or community service to strengthen negotiations.

• Challenging the accuracy of radar, LIDAR, and pacing methods.

This approach gives courts and prosecutors alternatives to a criminal conviction.

Other Common Charges for Teens

Reckless driving is only one example. Teens and young adults in Northern Virginia are also frequently charged with:

• Underage DUI (Va. Code § 18.2-266.1): Charges may follow with a BAC as low as 0.02%. We challenge chemical tests and procedures while negotiating for alcohol education alternatives.

• Drug Possession (Va. Code § 18.2-250): A single incident can carry lasting consequences. We push for diversion programs and treatment-based solutions.

• Shoplifting or Theft (Va. Code § 18.2-103): Often eligible for diversion or counseling instead of conviction if handled properly.

• Assault or Fighting (Va. Code § 18.2-57): Common among students, but still a criminal offense. We often negotiate counseling or anger management to avoid harsh outcomes.

• Disorderly Conduct (Va. Code § 18.2-415): Cases arising from school or public incidents can often be resolved with minimal penalties if presented strategically.

In each case, our goal is to keep a mistake from defining a young person’s future.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do first if my teen is arrested?
Call an attorney immediately. Do not let your child speak to police until represented.

Can police question my teen without me present?
They may try, but your child can, and should, ask for a lawyer right away.

Will reckless driving affect college applications?
Yes. Reckless driving is a misdemeanor in Virginia, and schools may see it on background checks.

Can my teen’s record be cleared?
Some juvenile records can be sealed or expunged. Adult charges may be permanent unless eligible for expungement.

What can Battlefield Law Group do to help?
We review the evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, and present proactive steps like driving school, community service, or counseling to reduce or dismiss charges.

Why Local Representation Matters

At Battlefield Law Group, PLLC, our attorneys Nicole H. Naum, Esq., Steven L. Duckett, Jr., Esq., and Lili R. O’Connell, Esq. represent juveniles and young adults across Northern Virginia. From our office in Manassas, we serve clients in Prince William, Fairfax, Loudoun, Stafford, Culpeper, Alexandria, Fauquier, and surrounding counties. Our strategies are designed to safeguard both your child’s record and their future. We also encourage families to read our Google reviews, where past clients share their genuine experiences, because the best measure of our work is the voice of those we’ve already helped.

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page is for general educational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Every case is unique, and past results do not guarantee future outcomes. Contacting Battlefield Law Group, PLLC does not create an attorney–client relationship. To receive advice specific to your situation, please schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys.