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Why Defend?

Convictions have consequences.  Right away, there may be a fine, loss of driving privileges, and/or jail time, and so on.  And down the road, the maximum for a second conviction can be much higher for some charges, such as DUI.  For other charges, a prosecutor may want a tougher plea deal for someone with any prior conviction.  Or, a judge may allow the prosecutor to mention a prior conviction at trial or before sentencing.

A Virginia conviction generally cannot be expunged.  If the conviction is seen in a background check, it may impact a security clearance or job application.  In some circumstances, a conviction can impact a lawsuit related to the same incident.

There are other consequences.  The Virginia DMV notes traffic and certain other offenses in DMV records.  Automobile insurance premiums can rise with DMV points.  A non-citizen of the United States needs to understand whether (or how) a conviction will impact his or her ability to stay in the United States, travel outside the United States, or apply for some immigration benefit or visa.  The list of consequences goes on.

If you have a friend, family member, or loved one in jail pending trial, Mr. Basu can bring a motion to set or reduce bond.  If you have been charged, Mr. Basu will work with you to find evidence in your favor.  Mr. Basu has defended many charges in Virginia that involve speeding, reckless driving, DUI, driving on a suspended license, driving without a license, false identification, larceny, assault, property damage, and so on.  He will negotiate with the prosecutor, and represent you in court if the matter goes to trial.

Traffic tickets

You could just pay the fine and accept the consequences of conviction.  These consequences can be high; for example, a conviction for reckless driving stays on your DMV record for 11 years and can affect your employment prospects.  We can analyze the facts in your case and work toward a reduced charge that you can plead to.  If you do not agree to plead to the reduced charge, or if the Commonwealth does not offer or agree to a reduced charge, we can go to trial.

DUI / DWI

Every DUI / DWI case is different, but the stakes are always high.  We will analyze the facts, look for weaknesses in the Commonwealth's case, and look for mitigating factors in your case.  As in other cases, the Commonwealth may offer to reduce the charge, or make other offers in exchange for your plea.  You decide whether to accept the offer or go to trial.

Other citations, misdemeanors, and felonies

Mr. Basu can represent you if you are charged with any violation that presents the possibility of a fine or imprisonment.  It could be a felony, a misdemeanor, or the violation of an ordinance.  As always, Mr. Basu will prepare a vigorous defense to protect your rights.

Juvenile offenders

Virginia has services for juvenile offenders.  Thus, almost always, it benefits a child to stay in the juvenile justice system.  Where that option is available, Mr. Basu will strive to keep the child out of the adult system.  He will study the facts and circumstances of the case, marshal the evidence in favor of the child, and prepare a vigorous defense.


Useful references

Look in your local courthouse for current, up to date, versions of these publications.

Traffic/DUI