Facing the legal system for the first time can be overwhelming. Virginia’s court process can vary by jurisdiction, but it generally follows a predictable structure. Understanding this process can reduce confusion and help you feel more in control of your situation.

The process often begins with an investigation, which may be followed by an arrest or a summons to appear in court. If an arrest is made, the individual will typically be taken before a magistrate who determines whether bail will be set. Following the arrest, an arraignment will take place where the court formally reads the charges and informs the defendant of their rights.

After arraignment, the case may proceed to a preliminary hearing, particularly for felony charges. This hearing is where the judge determines if there is enough evidence to continue to trial. If the judge finds probable cause, the case is certified to a grand jury, and an indictment may follow.

In the pretrial phase, both the defense and prosecution exchange evidence, known as discovery. Attorney Shane reviews this evidence thoroughly to identify inconsistencies, errors, or potential defenses. She may file motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence or to dismiss charges based on lack of probable cause.

If the case proceeds to trial, the defense and prosecution present their arguments, call witnesses, and cross-examine each other’s evidence. The judge or jury then determines guilt or innocence. If convicted, the next phase is sentencing. But even before trial, many cases are resolved through plea negotiations or alternative resolutions.

Throughout each of these steps, Attorney Shane acts as your guide and advocate. Whether you are dealing with charges of drug distribution, domestic violence, or assault and battery, Sheryl Shane ensures you understand what’s happening and what your options are. She prepares you for every appearance and works tirelessly to make sure you have the strongest defense possible.

Virginia’s sentencing guidelines are intended to promote consistency in how penalties are issued for felony convictions. These guidelines are advisory rather than mandatory, and judges have the discretion to go outside them when there is a valid reason. Attorney Shane understands how these guidelines work and knows how to advocate for fair and appropriate outcomes based on the unique circumstances of each case.

When a case reaches the sentencing phase, preparation becomes especially important. Attorney Shane works closely with her clients to ensure they are represented in the best possible light. She carefully gathers and organizes evidence that may support a request for leniency. This might include character references, proof of participation in counseling or treatment programs, or evidence that the incident was out of character. These factors can influence how a judge views the situation.

Attorney Shane may also work with family members, employers, or community supporters to submit personal statements that provide insight into the client’s background, responsibilities, and future goals. This kind of information helps humanize the client and offers a fuller picture of who they are beyond the charges.

Whether you are facing accusations related to DUI, drug offenses, theft, or assault, Attorney Shane is committed to guiding you through the legal process. She is focused on ensuring you are treated fairly and that your full story is heard and considered before any sentencing decisions are made.

Commission has developed Discretionary Sentencing Guidelines to assist the Court as to what is the appropriate punishment for these persons. The Virginia Sentencing guidelines in most instances take into account the defendant’s criminal history, current charges, along with other facets of his/her life. Points are assigned to the defendants past and prior acts. Probation Officers research the Defendant and draft a Pre-Sentence Investigation Reports. The Judge and both parties are given a copy. The judge reviews these guidelines and decides what type of punishment should be imposed upon the defendant. This is done after a trial and when the defendant was found guilty or when a defendant took a plea or is later at the sentencing hearing. The guidelines also may address fines, boot camp incarceration, local correctional facility incarceration, diversion and detention center incarceration, home incarceration, electronic monitoring, day or evening reporting, probation, and community service. These guidelines can assist a defendant to make a choice between a trial and a plea when he may have an idea of what type of punishment lies ahead. But, one must always remember that a Judge is not required to follow the guidelines. The Sentencing guidelines are discretionary, not absolute.

Many times when a defendant is found guilty of a crime or takes a plea to a crime, the Judge will impose actual time, suspended time, treatment, programs, and fines. Secondly, there are statutes which permit suspended impositions for persons charged with certain crimes and the Court will defer on imposing a conviction if the Defendant complies with Court Order. Unfortunately, life happens and failures to comply do arise, and persons violate the rules of a Court Order whether or not due to their own misgivings. Sometimes it is done with purpose and others due to emergencies, inability, negligence, or a simple mistake. When this happens, the party at issue will be required to explain to the Court and show good cause why there is non-compliance or in the alternative, the Court may impose sanctions. Punishments may be a new conviction(s), revocation of freedom, an extension of a probationary period, treatment, additional fines or perhaps community service. It is a no-brainer that an attorney who learns details about the defendant and fully discusses the client’s life and events which lead up to this point is the attorney you want to represent you. The Law Office of Sheryl Shane will do just that and introduce your evidence to the court in a passionate and persuasive manner. Not every case is the same and you deserve individual attention.