# Doummar Law > Criminal & Injury Attorney ## Posts - [Virginia Courts: Locations, Contacts & Legal Resources](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/virginia-courts-locations-contacts-legal-resources/): Virginia Courts: Locations, Contacts & Legal Resources At Doummar Law, we believe that access to clear, helpful information is a powerful part of legal defense. Whether you’re attending court for a DUI charge, criminal hearing, or civil matter, knowing where to go and who to contact can make all the difference. Below is a directory of key Virginia courts serving Virginia Beach and surrounding Hampton Roads cities. Virginia Beach Courts Virginia Beach General District Court Address: 2425 Nimmo Parkway, Virginia Beach, VA 23456 Phone: (757) 385-8531 Hours: Mon–Fri, 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM Virginia Beach Circuit Court Address: 2425 Nimmo […] - [Can I Sue a Contractor for Fraud? | Doummar Law](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/can-i-sue-a-contractor-for-fraud-doummar-law/): Can I Sue a Contractor for Fraud? What Virginia Homeowners Need to Know Suspecting contractor fraud? Knowing your legal options is crucial to protect your home and investment. At Doummar Law, we guide homeowners through the complexities of suing a contractor for fraud in Virginia. ⚠️ What Constitutes Contractor Fraud? Contractor fraud occurs when a contractor intentionally deceives a homeowner, often through: Misrepresenting qualifications or licenses Performing substandard or incomplete work Charging for work not performed Using inferior materials without disclosure Failure to obtain required permits Legal Grounds for Suing a Contractor To successfully sue for fraud, Virginia law requires […] - [Family Law 101: Seeking Full Custody in Virginia - Doummar Law](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/family-law-101-seeking-full-custody-in-virginia/): Family Law 101: I Want Full Custody – What You Need to Know Wanting full custody of your child in Virginia? Understanding the legal standards and what courts consider is essential for building a strong case. Doummar Law is here to guide you through the complexities of custody battles with experienced representation. 👨‍⚖️ Virginia Custody Basics Virginia courts prioritize the best interests of the child when deciding custody. Full custody means one parent has primary physical and legal custody, while the other may have visitation rights. ⚖️ Factors Courts Consider The child’s age, needs, and health Each parent’s ability to […] - [Virginia Private Property DUI Tests – Know Your Rights](https://doummarlaw.com/real-estate/virginia-private-property-dui-tests-know-your-rights/): Private Property DUI – Do You Have to Give a Breath or Blood Sample in Virginia? Driving impaired on private property? Virginia DUI rules aren’t the same as for public roads. The state’s Implied Consent law only applies when driving on “highways”—so your rights may differ if you’re on private land. 📜 Virginia’s Implied Consent Law Under Virginia Code § 18.2‑268.2, anyone who operates a vehicle on a public highway is deemed to have consented to breath or blood tests following arrest for DUI :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. This consent doesn’t automatically apply on private property 🚧 Private vs Public Property If your DUI […] - [Virginia Premises Liability – Landowner Duties & Legal Help](https://doummarlaw.com/real-estate/virginia-premises-liability-landowner-duties-legal-help/): Premises Liability in Virginia Injuries on someone else’s property? Virginia law depends on whether you were a trespasser, licensee, or invitee. Understanding the distinctions is key to your rights and potential recovery—or defending against a claim. 🚷 Trespassers Landowners generally owe no duty of care to trespassers—unless: The trespassing is so frequent that the owner should know and warn of hazards; or The land contains a “dangerous instrumentality” accessible to children—like machinery or chemicals :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. 👥 Licensees (Social Guests) For social visitors, landowners must avoid active negligence and warn about hidden dangers if: The owner knows of the unsafe condition, […] - [Virginia Transfer‑on‑Death (TOD) Deeds – Estate Planning Tool](https://doummarlaw.com/real-estate/virginia-transfer%e2%80%91on%e2%80%91death-tod-deeds-estate-planning-tool/): Virginia Transfer‑on‑Death (TOD) Deeds A Transfer‑on‑Death deed lets Virginia property owners pass real estate directly to a beneficiary without probate—but only takes effect upon your death. At Doummar Law, we’ll guide you through creating, revoking, and understanding TOD deeds as part of your estate plan. 📜 What Is a Transfer‑on‑Death Deed? Effective July 1, 2013, under Virginia Code § 64.2‑624, a TOD deed is a recorded, written document stating that your property transfers automatically upon death—no beneficiary payment or acceptance required :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. You retain all control during your lifetime. 🏠 How a TOD Deed Works Recorded before your death in the county’s land […] - [Trusts Protectors: A Concept Whose Time Has Come](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/trusts-protectors-a-concept-whose-time-has-come/): Trust Protectors in Virginia Estate Planning Trusts are powerful tools—but life changes. A trust protector adds critical flexibility to your estate plan. Whether updating trustees, changing situs, or adding beneficiaries, a protector helps you stay in control long-term. 🔍 What Is a Trust Protector? Originally seen in offshore trust planning, a trust protector is a fiduciary agent appointed within a trust to advise or direct the trustee—and in some cases, to make changes to the trust’s structure, beneficiaries, or governing law :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. 🇺🇸 Why It Matters in Virginia Although common in offshore trusts, trust protector roles are increasingly valuable for […] - [Virginia Business & Civil Litigation – Skilled Trial Lawyers](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/virginia-business-civil-litigation-skilled-trial-lawyers/): Business & Civil Litigation in Virginia Whether you’re suing or defending, facing contract disputes, tort claims, or class actions—your case deserves confident representation. Doummar Law’s litigation team handles cases in state, federal, and small claims courts across Virginia, including mediation and arbitration. ✅ Comprehensive Litigation Services Contract & business disputes Tort defense claims Real estate and construction litigation Employment, environmental, and creditor issues Bankruptcy court and appeals Class actions, injunctions, attorney-fee awards ⚖️ Courts & Alternative Dispute Resolution From small claims and circuit courts to federal filings—our attorneys represent clients throughout Virginia and Northeastern North Carolina. We’re also skilled in […] - [Virginia Conservation Easement Tax Credits – Maximize Benefits](https://doummarlaw.com/real-estate/virginia-conservation-easement-tax-credits-maximize-benefits/): Conservation Easement Tax Credits in Virginia Did you know Virginia landowners can receive a state tax credit worth 40% of their conservation easement donation? That’s a powerful financial incentive to preserve your property—up to $20,000 per year, carry forward for up to 10 years, and even transferable. 💡 What Are Conservation Easement Tax Credits? Under Virginia’s Land Preservation Tax Credit program, you receive a state income tax credit equal to 40% of the appraised value of a qualifying easement or land donation :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. You can use up to $20,000 per person per year, with any unused credit carried forward for […] - [Virginia Alford Plea Defense – Maintain Innocence With Counsel](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/virginia-alford-plea-defense-maintain-innocence-with-counsel/): Alford Plea Defense in Virginia If you’re considering an Alford plea in Virginia, you can plead guilty while maintaining innocence—it’s a strategic option when the prosecution’s case is strong. Let our skilled Virginia criminal defense team help you understand the benefits, risks, and courtroom strategy. 🔍 What Is an Alford Plea? An Alford plea allows you to formally enter a guilty plea while continuing to assert innocence, acknowledging the prosecution likely has enough evidence :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. It’s recognized in Virginia courts under North Carolina v. Alford (1970) :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}. ✅ Benefits & ⚠️ Risks of an Alford Plea Speed & certainty: Avoids […] - [Construction Law](https://doummarlaw.com/real-estate/construction-law/): Construction Defects in Concrete – Virginia Law Cracks, uneven slabs, trip hazards—these aren’t just cosmetic issues. In Virginia, you can hold a contractor liable—if they failed to follow the industry standard of care. Here’s what you need to know and how Doummar Law helps protect your rights. 🔧 Understanding Liability for Concrete Defects Contractors are only responsible if: There’s a **true defect** (beyond normal drying or shrinkage cracks) The defect resulted from **failing industry standards**—like wrong water mix, improper curing, or missing control joints :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1} ✅ Normal vs. Defect Cracks Superficial cracks (up to 1/4″) from curing aren’t defects. But […] - [Virginia Guardianship & Conservatorship – Legal Guidance](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/virginia-guardianship-conservatorship-legal-guidance/): Guardianship & Conservatorship in Virginia Planning for a loved one’s future? Virginia’s guardianship and conservatorship laws protect individuals who can’t manage their own affairs. At Doummar Law, we guide families through every step—ensuring legal accuracy, dignity, and peace of mind. 🔍 What Is Guardianship & Conservatorship? Guardians manage personal decisions—like healthcare and living arrangements—while conservators oversee financial affairs. In many cases, one person is appointed for both roles, but they can be split depending on needs :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}. 👣 The Legal Process in Virginia Here’s how it works: Obtain a medical opinion from a qualified physician declaring incapacity Define the scope […] - [2025 Virginia Employment Law Updates – Minimum Wage, Non‑Competes & More](https://doummarlaw.com/info/2025-updates-to-virginia-employment-law/): 2025 Updates to Virginia Employment Law Significant changes take effect in 2025—covering minimum wage, non-compete bans, pay transparency, and more. Whether you’re an employee or employer, staying informed is critical. Here’s how Doummar Law can support your compliance and rights. 💵 Minimum Wage Increased to $12.41/hr As of January 1, 2025, Virginia’s minimum wage rose from $12.00 to $12.41 per hour, tied to CPI-U adjustments. Annual updates will continue under state law :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}. 🚫 Non-Compete Ban Expanded (Effective July 1, 2025) Virginia has extended its non-compete ban to cover all non-exempt (hourly) employees—regardless of salary—which further limits enforceable restrictive covenants […] - [Virginia 'Habitual Drunkard' Law Explained & Challenged](https://doummarlaw.com/faq/virginia-habitual-drunkard-law-explained-challenged/): Virginia’s “Habitual Drunkard” Interdiction Law Virginia’s “Habitual Drunkard” interdiction law has deep historical roots — but parts have been ruled unconstitutional. If you were interdicted under this law, you may still face legal penalties for possessing alcohol. Understanding your rights is the first step toward fighting back. What Is the “Habitual Drunkard” Interdiction? The law allows a court to declare someone an “interdicted habitual drunkard” — often after multiple alcohol-related convictions — and then impose criminal penalties for mere possession or consumption of alcohol, including up to a year in jail. Why Part of It Is Unconstitutional In Manning v. Caldwell, the […] - [Tenancy by the Entirety in Virginia – Property Rights & Legal Help](https://doummarlaw.com/faq/tenancy-by-the-entirety-in-virginia-property-rights-legal-help/): Tenancy by the Entirety in Virginia Protecting property in marriage requires clarity — and in Virginia, few doctrines are more powerful than Tenancy by the Entirety (TBE). If you and your spouse own property jointly, you need to understand what protections exist, especially in light of recent legal developments that may affect how creditors can access your shared assets. What Is Tenancy by the Entirety? Tenancy by the Entirety is a form of joint property ownership that is exclusive to married couples. Under Virginia law, this arrangement provides both spouses with equal ownership of the entire property. Neither spouse can […] - [Virginia Alford Plea Defense – Expert Criminal Lawyers](https://doummarlaw.com/faq/virginia-alford-plea-defense-expert-criminal-lawyers/): Alford Plea Defense in Virginia What Is an Alford Plea? The Alford plea is a unique legal option that allows a defendant to plead guilty while maintaining innocence. Based on the 1970 U.S. Supreme Court case North Carolina v. Alford, this type of plea is typically offered to avoid trial and secure a negotiated sentence. It can be strategically used when evidence is strong, but the defendant does not admit guilt — instead, acknowledging that the prosecution has enough evidence for a conviction. Pros and Cons of Choosing an Alford Plea ✅ Benefits May result in reduced sentencing Helps avoid […] - [Tenancy by the Entirety in Virginia:](https://doummarlaw.com/info/tenancy-by-the-entirety-virginia-law-update/): Understanding Deterrence in Criminal Law: Why It Matters In the realm of criminal justice, one of the most fundamental principles is deterrence—the idea that the threat or application of punishment can discourage individuals from committing crimes. At Doummar Law, we often encounter clients who are facing serious charges, and understanding how deterrence influences sentencing and prosecution is crucial not only for those accused but for anyone seeking insight into the broader legal system. What Is Deterrence? Deterrence refers to the use of criminal penalties as a means to discourage criminal behavior. There are two primary types: Specific Deterrence: This aims […] - [Understanding Deterrence in Criminal Law: Why It Matters](https://doummarlaw.com/info/what-is-deterrence/) ## Pages - [About Doummar Law](https://doummarlaw.com/about-doummar-law/) - [Speeding Penalties in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/speeding-defense-attorney/) - [Speeding Penalties in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/speeding-penalties-virginia/) - [Speeding Laws in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/speeding-laws-virginia/) - [Speeding](https://doummarlaw.com/speeding/) - [Reckless Driving vs. Speeding in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/reckless-driving-vs-speeding/) - [Reckless Driving in Virginia Beach](https://doummarlaw.com/reckless-driving/) - [DUI Court Guide for Virginia Beach](https://doummarlaw.com/virginia-beach-dui-court-guide/) - [Speeding FAQ](https://doummarlaw.com/speeding-faq/) - [DUI FAQ](https://doummarlaw.com/dui-faq/) - [Field Sobriety Tests and DUI Defense in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/dui-field-sobriety-tests/) - [DUI Defense Strategies](https://doummarlaw.com/dui-defense-strategies/) - [DUI Penalties in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/dui-penalties-virginia/) - [DUI | Lawyer Virginia Beach](https://doummarlaw.com/dui/) - [Reckless Driving FAQ — Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/reckless-driving-faq/) - [Reckless Driving Court Guide for Virginia Beach](https://doummarlaw.com/virginia-beach-court-guide/) - [Virginia Beach Reckless Driving Defense Attorney](https://doummarlaw.com/reckless-driving-defense-attorney/) - [How to Beat a Reckless Driving Charge in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/how-to-beat-reckless-driving-charge/) - [Reckless Driving Penalties in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/reckless-driving-penalties/) - [Understanding Reckless Driving Laws in Virginia](https://doummarlaw.com/reckless-driving-laws-virginia/) - [Services | Find A Lawyer - VA Beach](https://doummarlaw.com/virginia-beach-location/) - [Virginia Beach Law Office](https://doummarlaw.com/virginia-beach-law-office/) - [Joel Kinney](https://doummarlaw.com/kinney-joel-g-esq/) - [Richard Doummar](https://doummarlaw.com/doummar-richard-habib/) - [Traffic Offenses](https://doummarlaw.com/federal-offenses/) - [Drug Offenses](https://doummarlaw.com/drug-offenses/) - [Privacy Policy](https://doummarlaw.com/privacy/) - [Disclaimer](https://doummarlaw.com/disclaimer/) - [Contact](https://doummarlaw.com/contact/) - [Blog](https://doummarlaw.com/blog/) - [About Doummar](https://doummarlaw.com/about-doummar-law-2/) - [Personal Injury Attorney](https://doummarlaw.com/personal-injury-attorney/) - [Medical Malpractice Attorney](https://doummarlaw.com/medical-malpractice/) - [Criminal Defense Attorney](https://doummarlaw.com/criminal-defense-attorney/) - [Doummar Law](https://doummarlaw.com/) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)