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Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. Attorneys At Law Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. Attorneys At Law
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Criminal Defense

Criminal Defense Attorney in Staunton

Local Help When Criminal Charges Turn Your Life Upside Down

Getting charged with a crime can be frightening. If you are facing criminal defense issues or criminal charges in or around Staunton, you do not have to handle this alone.

Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. Attorneys At Law has served Staunton and Central Virginia for more than 30 years, helping clients defend against Virginia criminal charges. We provide clear, practical guidance and treat every client with respect, taking time to listen, answer questions, and explain options in plain language.

Talk with a Staunton criminal defense attorney who will listen to your situation and explain your options clearly. Call (540) 328-2808 today to schedule a confidential consultation and take the first step toward protecting your future.

Why Choose Our Staunton Defense Team

Choosing a lawyer is a serious decision, especially when your freedom and future are at stake. At Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. Attorneys At Law, a full-service team supports your criminal case and the related issues that can come with it, such as family concerns, employment problems, injuries, or financial stress.
 

Serving Staunton and Central Virginia since 1990, our attorneys work collaboratively while keeping one consistent point of contact for you. Because we appear regularly in area courts, we understand how cases typically move and tailor our strategy to your goals. Accessibility matters, so we aim for reasonable fees, a comfortable, kid-friendly office, and options like phone or video meetings when travel is difficult. Clients often mention our clear communication, respectful approach, and steady guidance during stressful cases in their testimonials.

Criminal Cases We Handle Locally

If this is your first time facing a criminal charge, the paperwork and legal terms can be confusing. We help clients in the Staunton area with a wide range of criminal matters in Virginia courts.

  • DUI and DWI
    We defend DUI and DWI charges and address related license issues that can affect work and daily life.
  • Drug Charges
    We handle drug cases involving allegations such as possession, distribution, or related offenses.
  • Theft and Property Crimes
    We represent clients facing charges like shoplifting, burglary, and other property-related allegations.
  • Assault and Domestic-Related Charges
    We defend assault cases, including matters that may involve domestic or family-related allegations.
  • Reckless Driving and Serious Traffic Offenses
    We assist with reckless driving and other serious moving violations that can carry lasting consequences.
  • Probation Violations
    We represent clients in probation violation hearings and related matters.
  • Juvenile Charges
    We handle juvenile matters heard in the local juvenile court and guide families through the process. Some charges carry hidden consequences. A conviction may affect employment, professional licensing, school enrollment, or immigration status for non-citizens. Our team reviews these possible impacts so you can make informed decisions.

If it is not clear how to label the case, bring or send the summons, warrant, or case printout. We can walk through it together and discuss next steps.

How Criminal Cases Move Through Staunton Courts

Understanding the basic court process can ease some of the fear you may be feeling. In Staunton-area Virginia cases, matters typically start in the General District Court or the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, depending on whether the case involves a juvenile or certain family-related issues.

1. Where cases start: General District Court vs J&DR Court

Most adult criminal charges begin in the General District Court. Cases involving juveniles or specific family-related matters may start in the Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court.

2. First appearance and misdemeanor timeline

After an arrest or summons, the first court date typically covers identity verification, whether a lawyer is involved, and a limited review of the charge. Many misdemeanors are later tried in the same district court.

3. Felonies: preliminary hearing and Circuit Court

Felony charges often begin with a preliminary hearing in district court. If the case is certified, it generally moves to the Circuit Court serving the Staunton area for further proceedings, including plea discussions and trial. Exact steps vary based on the charge, the evidence, and decisions made by the prosecutor.

4. What To Do After You Are Charged

After an arrest or receiving a summons, it can be hard to think clearly. Taking a few careful steps can help protect your rights and long-term interests.

Steps to take right away

  • Keep all paperwork from the court or police in a safe place
  • Avoid discussing case details with anyone other than a lawyer
  • Write down what you remember while it is still fresh, including names and dates
  • Confirm the date, time, and location of the first court appearance
  • Contact a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible

Why early legal advice matters

Early advice can help prevent missteps, such as missing deadlines, making statements that get used against you, or overlooking options that could improve the outcome. When you contact us, we can review the charge, explain potential penalties in plain terms, and discuss fees upfront before any commitment.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do right after an arrest?

Stay calm and avoid arguing with officers. Use the right to remain silent and ask to speak with a lawyer before answering questions. Keep any paperwork received and contact our office as soon as possible to review the situation.

Will I have to go to jail in Staunton?

It depends on factors like the charge, prior record, and court decisions. We can review the case, explain likely outcomes, and discuss options that may reduce or avoid active jail time when the law and facts allow.

How quickly should I contact a lawyer?

It is usually best to contact a lawyer as soon as you learn about an investigation, arrest, or court date. Early advice can protect rights and prevent avoidable mistakes.

How do fees work for a criminal case?

Many criminal matters are handled with a flat fee that depends on the charge and complexity. Fees are explained clearly at the start, including what is included and what may increase costs.

Can you meet if I cannot travel to your office?

If travel is difficult due to health, injury, or other serious reasons, we can discuss alternatives such as phone or video meetings.

Talk With a Staunton Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges in this part of Virginia is stressful, but you do not have to face the General District Court, Juvenile and Domestic Relations District Court, or Circuit Court alone. A criminal defense attorney in Staunton can help explain options and build a plan.

At Tucker Griffin Barnes P.C. Attorneys At Law, we bring decades of local experience, a collaborative team, and a community-focused approach to every criminal case. To schedule a confidential consultation, call (540) 328-2808.

If you have been arrested or believe you are under investigation in Central Virginia, do not wait. Contact an experienced Staunton criminal defense attorney when you call (540) 328-2808 or fill out our online form. Criminal attorneys in your area are ready to help!

Hear What Our Clients Say

  • Top 10 Under 40
  • ASLA Top Criminal Lawyers
  • Virginia Business Legal Elite
  • Super Lawyers
    “I would definitely recommend Christopher Bibb to anyone!”
    I would definitely recommend Christopher Bibb to anyone! He is very friendly and professional. He answers emails and calls within the same day. My family law case was a little unique and threw a curve ball towards the end. But he was ready for the challenge.
    - Felecia T.
    “Courteous, professional, & provides timely updates & is very accessible.”
    I would absolutely recommend Christopher Bibb to everyone! He recently represented me in a family law matter, and I was HIGHLY impressed! He is courteous, and professional, provides timely updates, and is very accessible. He always took time to address any questions/ concerns I had along the way. I truly appreciated his attention to detail and the fact that he was always prepared for anything. I cannot thank him enough!
    - Jennifer M.
    “They took care of literally EVERY stressful problem/question/concern I had & made it that much easier on me!”
    I was in a motorcycle accident the day before Father’s Day in 2023 and the outcome would have been over a million dollar case but because of some circumstances, I was facing debt well over $500,000 and I would have been forced to file bankruptcy! Matthew Westmoreland got it to where ALL of my medical bills were covered at UVA AND worked his magic and somehow made it so that I actually got a settlement check (no matter how big or little the check was), I HIGHLY recommend Matthew Westmoreland 1,000 times over!!! And he took care of literally EVERY stressful problem/question/concern I had and made it that much easier on me! Thank you Matthew Westmoreland for EVERYTHING!
    - Mandi L.
    “Highly Recommended!”
    I highly recommend Yvonne Griffin and her staff. Not only did they get me a great settlement and they also got my medical liens reduced, which meant more money for my family.
    - Personal Injury Client
    “Yvonne Griffin was a compassionate person & hands-on!”
    Yvonne Griffin represented me in a car accident that required many months of hands-on attention. She was a compassionate person always taking into consideration my limited ability from my brain injury, but not making me feel inferior. I highly recommend Yvonne. She is a true professional.
    - Personal Injury Client
    “Worked hard to help me & I’m very grateful!”
    Thank you for taking my ‘small’ case. I know you all worked hard to help me and I’m very grateful for all you did for me.
    - Personal Injury Client
    “Yvonne Griffin is a fearless trial attorney!”
    Yvonne Griffin is a fearless trial attorney with significant courtroom experience.
    - Personal Injury Client
    “Yvonne Griffin is an extremely smart lawyer!”
    Yvonne Griffin is an extremely smart lawyer. Her years of experience were on prime display as she worked through every difficult problem with my car accident case. I couldn’t have asked for a better lawyer.
    - Personal Injury Client

Consultations Available Take The Next Step

Whether you have questions or you’re ready to get started, our legal team is ready to help. Complete our form below or call us at (540) 328-2808.

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What Our Work Means

  • A Vigorous Commitment to Lower Costs
    We work hard to keep our rates lower than our peers.
  • A Dedicated Focus on Client Service
    We promptly return phone calls, provide play areas for your children during office visits, and when you need us, we'll visit you at home or at the hospital.
  • A Deep Knowledge of the Law
    Expertise matters. Most of our attorneys concentrate in only one or two areas of the law.
  • A Strong Reputation
    We're respected attorneys who live to fight and win for our clients.