Richmond Curfew Violation Lawyer
27+ Years of Experience Advocating for Clients’ Best Interests
Kids will be kids. They will hang out with their friends through the late hours of the night, paying little attention to the legal consequences of their actions. While minors are notoriously good at thinking they’re “invincible” from getting in legal trouble, it’s important to recognize that they are obligated to comply with Richmond curfew laws regardless.
Curfew violations are among the most common offenses committed by juveniles nationwide. Repeat offenses can lead to harsh consequences that may hinder your child’s ability to get a job, accepted into university, scholarships and keep their driving privileges. Thus, when their future is on the line, it’s important to act quickly and retain Attorney Paul C. Galanides to defend your child’s rights and better prevent them from missing out on valuable opportunities in the future.
Although curfew violations seem like a minor offense, the long-term consequences can be major. Reach out to our defense lawyer by calling (804) 977-0110 to learn how we can help your child overcome their curfew violation accusation.
Virginia's Curfew For Minors
Richmond’s curfew law states that “Children under the age of 18 are not permitted on public streets, alleys, parks, playgrounds, public buildings or grounds, places of amusement, entertainment, refreshment or vacant lots between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.” unless they are with an adult.
Virginia Curfew Violation Laws
Thus, if your child is seen in public during these hours, they may suffer a $500 fine and mandatory 20 hours of community service. Exceptions to the curfew law include:
- a child who is with a parent, guardian or other adult person authorized by the parents
- a child who is on an emergency errand as directed by their parent, guardian, or approved adult
- a child who is working; a child traveling directly to and from work and home
- a child who is traveling to and from an event officially designated as a school activity
Members of the community, such as residents and owners of public places in Richmond, can report a curfew violation to law enforcement. It’s fair to say that law enforcement isn’t the only group who can be vigilant in enforcing law and order. Thus, your child is extra vulnerable to getting in trouble with the law and can depend on our curfew violation defense attorney to help them navigate this messy situation if they get charged.
Curfew Laws & Teen Driving
When it comes to curfew laws involving teen driving, Virginia law prohibits anyone under 18 years old to drive between midnight and 4 a.m. unless they’re driving:
- to or from a place of business where they’re employed
- to or from an activity that is supervised by an adult and is sponsored by a school or by a civic, religious, or public organization
- with a licensed spouse age 18 or older, parent or other adult acting in loco parentis who is occupying the front passenger seat
- in case of an emergency, including responding to emergency calls as a volunteer firefighter or rescue squad personnel
Curfew Laws & Adults Age 18+
There are times in which city, state or federal governments enforce curfew orders to maintain law and order during uncontrollable times. When unprecedented circumstances arise, curfew rules may be implemented and apply to all citizens, including adults. Thus, adults can be arrested for violating curfew orders even if they’re temporary and seem “harmless.”
Defending Those Accused of Violating Curfew in Richmond, VA
You may think that a curfew violation doesn’t matter, but you must remember that the law prevails. When your child has their whole future ahead of them, you can’t take the risk of dismissing their curfew violation thinking it will sort itself out. Rather, you should be proactive and hire the legal help they deserve. If you are an adult who violated a temporary curfew order, you owe it to yourself to retain legal representation as well.
Put 27+ years of legal experience in your corner. Contact our curfew violation attorney at (804) 977-0110 for a free phone consultation!