A criminal charge puts your freedom, your record, and your future on the line — and who you hire to defend you can change the outcome. The vast majority of cases never reach a jury; they rely on investigation, negotiation, and knowing the local courts. This guide covers what to look for in a criminal defense lawyer and how Decker Law defends clients across Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and all of Hampton Roads. Call 757-622-3317 for a free consultation, available 24/7.
WHY THE RIGHT DEFENSE LAWYER CHANGES THE OUTCOME
Very few criminal cases actually go to trial — well under 2% nationally. That means most outcomes are shaped long before the courtroom: in how the evidence is investigated, whether the stop or search was lawful, and how skillfully a favorable resolution is negotiated. An experienced defense lawyer who knows the prosecutors and judges in your jurisdiction has familiarity that an inexperienced general practitioner or public defender simply doesn’t.
The stakes make that difference concrete. In Virginia, a misdemeanor can still carry up to a year in jail, and felonies range from Class 6 (up to five years) all the way to Class 1 (up to life) — each with lasting consequences for your job, your housing, and your record. Choosing the wrong representation can raise your risk of trial and of harsher penalties. Choosing the right lawyer early is the single best thing you can do to protect your future.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR IN A CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYER
Relevant, local experience
Look for a lawyer who regularly handles charges like yours in your court — someone who knows the local prosecutors and judges. Decker Law has defended clients throughout Hampton Roads for more than 60 years.
How felonies and misdemeanors differ in Virginia
Misdemeanors carry up to a year in jail; felonies run from Class 6 (up to 5 years) to Class 1 (up to life and $100,000 in fines). The class shapes the entire defense strategy — an experienced lawyer explains exactly what you’re facing.
A clear defense strategy
Strong defenses can include challenging an unlawful search or arrest, establishing an alibi, showing you didn’t commit the act, or self-defense. The right lawyer builds the strategy around your specific facts, not a template.
Straightforward fees
Most criminal matters are handled on a flat rate rather than hourly billing, though complex or trial-bound cases cost more. A good firm is transparent about this up front. We’ll explain your options in a free consultation.
Someone you can actually reach
Charges create stress and urgent questions. Look for a firm that’s available when you need it — we offer after-hours access and keep you informed at every step.
WHY CLIENTS CHOOSE DECKER
Six decades in these courts
We know the Hampton Roads judges, prosecutors, and procedures — familiarity that we use in negotiations and at trial.
Personal attention, not an impossible caseload
Unlike an overwhelmed general practitioner or public defender, we give your case the time and resources to build the strongest possible defense.
Reachable when it counts
Criminal charges don’t wait for business hours. We’re available 24/7, and we keep you informed at every stage.
MEET OUR LAWYERS
Martin Thomas, Jr.
Martin Thomas, Jr. focuses on personal injury, criminal, and traffic law, along with contract law and civil litigation. He tries cases in the courts of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Chesapeake, and formerly served on the Norfolk City Council.
MEET OUR LAWYERS
George Neskis
George Neskis represents clients charged with criminal and traffic offenses — from DUI and reckless driving to felony matters — and also handles personal injury. A former Norfolk Assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney, he practices across all seven Hampton Roads cities and has been named to Super Lawyers for criminal defense.
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Martin Thomas
Martin Thomas is the firm’s president and managing attorney, concentrating on personal injury, criminal, and traffic law. He handles multimillion-dollar injury cases throughout Virginia and has been named to Super Lawyers for personal injury.
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Michelle Parker
Michelle Parker concentrates on personal injury, elder law, wills, trusts and estates, litigation, corporate law, and criminal defense. She handles civil, probate, and traffic cases throughout the seven cities of Greater Hampton Roads.
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Peter Decker, III
Peter Decker, III focuses his practice on criminal, traffic, and personal injury. He regularly practices in the General District, Juvenile and Domestic Relations, and Circuit Courts of Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Chesapeake, Portsmouth, Hampton, Suffolk and Newport News.
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Cole Roberts
A Norfolk native and former Public Defender, Cole Roberts represents clients in criminal defense and traffic matters, from reckless driving and DUI to serious felonies. He has tried numerous jury cases across the seven Hampton Roads cities.
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Joseph Rigney
A Portsmouth native and former prosecutor, Joseph Rigney focuses on personal injury and criminal defense, including traffic law. He tries both civil and criminal cases in the courts of Norfolk, Portsmouth, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, Suffolk, Hampton, and Newport News.
The sooner a lawyer is involved, the more can be done — evidence preserved, options protected, and the case shaped in your favor. Reach us by text, chat, or email — or call right now at 757-622-3317.
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