Resources on Criminal Law, Family Law and Personal Injury in Virginia
The following links and resources are provided by the attorneys at the Bender Law Group for the benefit of people in Richmond and beyond who are seeking information about Virginia criminal law, DUI, family law and personal injury. We hope these resources help you find the information you are looking for. If you have other questions or need immediate assistance, contact the Bender Law Group at 804-648-8000 for a free consultation.
General Legal Resources
VA Courts – Links to the Supreme Court of Virginia, the Court of Appeals of Virginia, circuit courts in thirty-one judicial circuits, general district and juvenile and domestic relations district courts in thirty-two districts, and magistrates in offices in thirty-two districts. Access case status and information, search opinions and directories, get legal links to the state law library and more.
Legal Aid – For practically any area of the law, this resource can provide you with helpful information and put you in touch with an attorney who can help you if you qualify for legal aid based on income.
VINE Link is a victim notification network allowing you to be alerted by phone, email or text regarding criminal case information or custody status changes.
University of Richmond Legal Services – Get help with criminal defense and appeals, divorce, domestic violence and more through the law school’s commitment to provide the community with pro bono legal services.
Virginia Criminal Law Resources
Code of Virginia – This link takes you to the statutory law of the Commonwealth of Virginia. Title 18.2 covers crimes and offenses generally, and Title 19.2 covers criminal procedure.
U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration – The mission of the DEA is to enforce the controlled substances laws and regulations of the United States and prosecute individuals charged with federal drug crimes.
Circuit courts have jurisdiction over all felony offenses in Virginia, as well as appeals of misdemeanors from district court or crimes which were originally charged in circuit court. The circuit courts also have jurisdiction over juveniles between the ages of 14 and 18 who have been charged with a felony and had their case certified or transferred from juvenile and domestic relations district court. Contact information for selected Virginia Circuit Courts can be found below. Other courts can be found by clicking here:
For young adults, the Virginia State Bar (VSB) has created a website devoted to helping people understand their rights and responsibilities under the law, including drinking, drunk driving, criminal charges and more. Visit So You’re 18 to get started.
The VSB has also created a page on minors, alcohol and Virginia law which you can view online or download as a leaflet.
The Virginia Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers (VACDL) supports attorneys dedicated to criminal defense work throughout the Commonwealth. Members network, mentor and assist each other to improve their individual skills and foster the criminal defense legal profession in Virginia.
Virginia Department of Corrections – Visit the DOC website to lookup an inmate or find a facility. You can also find information about inmate visitation here. Parolees and probationers can find helpful information in the community corrections section of the website.
If you have a friend or family in the federal system, see the Bureau of Prisons website to find an inmate, locate a facility or obtain information about visiting.
Part of the U.S. Department of Justice, the National Institute of Justice provides a great deal of information on criminal law issues, including use of excessive force by police officers during traffic stops and arrests.
Department of Motor Vehicles – See this brochure for a comprehensive overview of Virginia DUI laws and penalties for driving under the influence. General safety information about drinking and driving can be found here as well.
Community Resource Directory for Richmond
List of services offered in Richmond
Virginia Family Law Resources
Virginia State Bar page on Children & Divorce provides guidelines for parents on time sharing and other matters. Download the information in pamphlet form for printing or future reference, or to give to a friend or family member going through a divorce. Copies are available in English and Spanish.
Spare the Child is an 18-minute video produced by the Virginia State Bar Family Law Section meant to guide parents during the period of marital dissolution and family restructuring. A Spanish version of this video is available as well.
The Virginia State Bar also maintains a page on Divorce in Virginia, with abundant information on grounds for divorce, no-fault divorce, annulment, property rights, spousal support and more. This page includes a short video as well as the ability to download the information in brochure format. Another page deals specifically with financial issues in Virginia divorce.
Virginia Personal Injury Resources
Department of Motor Vehicles – Find out how to report a crash to the DMV. You can also find insurance consumer information here, covering topics such as purchasing auto insurance, filing claims and Virginia insurance requirements and penalties.
National Highway Traffic Safety Administration – Visit NHTSA for tips on road safety, distracted driving and to find out about vehicle and tire safety recalls.
Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration – Go to the FMCSA website after a trucking accident to view federal truck safety regulations for drivers and carriers, such as hours of service rules, vehicle limits and required safety equipment. The Safety and Fitness Electronic Records (SAFER) System is another place to check on a trucking company’s safety record.
Motorcycle Safety Foundation – MSF provides rider training courses and public safety awareness campaigns for safe riding. Also see the American Motorcyclist Association for information on motorcycle culture and activities or to see a quick overview of Virginia motorcycle laws.
AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety – Go here for the latest research-based information on driver behavior and performance, emerging technologies, roadway systems and drivers, and vulnerable road users such as older drivers, teen drivers, drugged drivers and distracted drivers.
