Cherita Lewis is a Criminal Defense Attorney serving clients across Northern Virginia with a balanced, informed, and deeply client-centered approach. With experience on both sides of the courtroom and a strong foundation in legal analysis, Cherita brings clarity, strategy, and steady support to individuals facing difficult and often overwhelming circumstances. Cherita believes every client deserves compassion, honesty, and a clear understanding of their options. She is known for her ability to explain complex issues, anticipate how the prosecution may build its case, and guide clients through an often overwhelming process with confidence and support. Cherita’s legal career spans criminal defense, litigation, and federal agency advisory work. She has represented clients in a wide range of matters, including misdemeanors, serious felony charges, protective orders, and traffic-related offenses, maintaining a strong track record across these areas. Her background includes experience as an attorney advisor within a federal agency, where she strengthened her skills in legal analysis and detailed case assessment. She later gained valuable courtroom experience through litigation work, including family law matters handled through a local pro bono center. Her transition into criminal law, supported by experience as a prosecutor, provides her with a comprehensive understanding of case-building and trial preparation. At the University of the District of Columbia, Cherita graduated with honors and contributed to Law Review, Phi Delta Phi, and the Women’s Law Society. Originally from a military and multicultural family, she has lived in various regions of the country, attended high school and college in Texas, and has made the DMV her home for many years. Outside of her legal work, Cherita enjoys exploring new learning opportunities, staying connected to the legal community, and engaging with clients and colleagues in meaningful, supportive ways

Alan Bowden is an attorney whose practice centers on family law, divorce, and domestic relations matters handled in both Juvenile and Circuit Courts across Virginia. He represents individuals throughout Northern Virginia, as well as in Prince William County, Spotsylvania County, Stafford County, and Fredericksburg. His work often emphasizes resolving disputes through negotiation and mediation when possible, helping clients reach practical solutions while minimizing conflict. When settlement is not achievable, he brings decades of courtroom experience to contested matters, having tried cases in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia over the course of a 25-year legal career. Mr. Bowden is admitted to practice in Virginia, Maryland, and Washington, D.C., and is also admitted before the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia and the United States District Court for the District of Maryland. He is a member of the Virginia Bar Association and remains active in both bar-related and community activities. His academic background includes a Bachelor of Science in Finance from Virginia Tech, a Juris Doctor from DePaul University College of Law, and an LL.M. in Securities and Financial Regulation from Georgetown University. To learn how Alan Bowden can assist with a family law or domestic relations matter, call 703-386-7941 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation and discuss next steps.

I've been practicing law since 1995. I'm licensed to practice law in the Commonwealth of Virginia, the District of Columbia, the State of Georgia, the Military Courts of the United States, the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, the United States Court of Federal Claims, and the Supreme Court of the United States. I served over 20 Years as a United States Marine both as an enlisted member (Amphibious Assault Crewman) and officer (Military Attorney and Judge Advocate). As a Military Attorney I provided legal assistance to members of the military and their families in areas of Family Law, Estate Planning, and Consumer Protection. As a Military Criminal Defense Attorney I represented members of the military at Court Martial and Administrative Discharge Board proceedings facing charges ranging from Capital Murder and Rape to simple Unauthorized Absence.