5 Virginia Criminal Law Changes in 2026 That Could Affect Your Case; And What You Can Do About It
If you or someone you love is involved in the Virginia criminal justice system, whether facing a current charge, serving a sentence, on probation, or looking for a way to challenge an old conviction, 2026 has brought a set of legal changes that could directly...
How a Writ of Habeas Corpus Safeguards Individual Freedom in Virginia
When someone is incarcerated due to a constitutional violation, one of the most powerful legal remedies available is a writ of habeas corpus. Often called the “Great Writ,” this legal safeguard protects individuals from unlawful detention and ensures that the government cannot imprison a...
What Happens After Appeals Are Over in a Virginia Criminal Case?
When a criminal appeal ends in Virginia, many defendants and families are left with the same overwhelming question. Is the case truly over, or is there anything else that can still be done?
This moment often brings confusion, fear, and silence. Courts stop sending notices....
New Record Sealing and Criminal Record Reforms in Virginia
What Post-Conviction Defendants and Families Need to Know
Virginia has enacted some of the most significant criminal record reforms in its history. These changes affect how certain criminal records may be sealed after a case is complete and are especially important for people who already have...
How a Criminal Conviction Can Affect Your Immigration Status in Virginia
For immigrants living in Virginia, even a single criminal charge can carry consequences that reach far beyond the courtroom. A conviction doesn’t just affect your freedom or record; it can directly threaten your immigration status, your ability to remain in the U.S., or your chance...
Child solicitation conviction Reversed
In a recent decision, the Virginia Court of Appeals reversed the felony conviction of a man accused of solicitation. The court agreed with Attorney Jon Sheldon’s arguments, finding that the original conviction lacked sufficient evidence and was legally flawed. As a result, the man has...
Makan Shirafkin In Pursuit Of Justice
Mr. Sheldon was honored to represent Mr. Shirafkan and overturn his conviction in Fairfax circuit court, exonerating him for a decades long injustice. The exoneration led to Mr. Shirafkan being sworn in as a United States Citizen March 2025.
Prince William Commonwealth’s Attorney was Ordered to Pay Mr. Sheldon $22K for FOIA Violation
Local news reports that the Prince William County prosecutor has been ordered to pay Attorney Sheldon over $22,000 in fees for FOIA violation. Read News Report!
Prince William County Commonwealth’s Attorney Amy Ashworth has been ordered to pay a $22,250 penalty after violating Virginia’s...
Sheldon’s habeas corpus petition lead to judge’s absence from courthouse after sexual allegations
About two weeks after a court filing alleged that he had traded legal help for sex, Judge Onzlee Ware stopped hearing cases in Roanoke Circuit Court. No public record or public official has explained his absence.
Read complete article on Roanoke.com
Sheldon argues that evidence insufficient to find appellant operated boat in hit and run case
Where appellant was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and felony hit and run, there was sufficient evidence that he operated a boat when it crashed into a bulkhead, resulting in his passenger’s death.
Read complete article on valawyersweekly.com
