Robert Hyman | Stafford Criminal Lawyer | Virginia

Represented a parent and young adult child. Parent was charged with DUI, a subsequent offense and child was charged with a third offense of driving under the influence of drugs within 4 months and held without bond. While in jail, child was administered medications for mental illness. Parents case resolved with minimal jail and successful treatment and has successfully abstained from the use of alcohol. Child's case resolved by the discontinued use of medications and a referral to a treatment program in lieu of any addition jail. Initially the child appeared to suffer from a mental illness. However, it was discovered that the drugs were causing the child to act and appear to have a mental illness. We were instrumental in discontinuing the administration of drugs and convincing the judge that the child would be a candidate for treatment rather than continued incarceration. When the case first came to me, the family was dysfunctional considering their respective addictions. It appears that both clients are on their way to dealing with their addictions and becoming a functional family again. Also numerous criminal and traffic cases and jury trials that have resulted in dimissals often due the court's ruling that the government's evidence against the accused was inadmissible.

After a number of years maintaining a general practice, it occurred to me that the practice of defending those charged with criminal offenses was some of the most rewarding. So approximately 20 years ago I decided to restrict my law practice to criminal defense. I also handle personal injury cases, having begun my practice working for an attorney who exclusively handled those cases. I maintain a sole practice so that I can deal with my clients first hand and avoid shuffling a client to an associate or other firm member. Individual attention to my clients is most important. A successful practice is one that includes experience, preparation and personal attention to the people you are paid to represent. We do our best to follow that philosophy.

Judging from what my clients have said to me, clients should look for an attorney who can find the time to respond to a client as soon as possible; have the time to discuss a client's case regardless of how long it may take; advise the client as to all consequences good and bad. Look for an attorney who has experience in that field as well as in that particular location.

As I indicated, it is very important to hire an attorney who is a "regular" in the courts where your case will be heard and familiar with the local practice. Being unfamiliar with the local practice just adds the potential for your client not to get the best representation.

In a phone consultation, I like to know the nature of the charges; a brief summary of the accusations against my prospective client; any potential defenses they may have; and the upcoming court dates. I will advise as to the range of punishment and possible consequences should one be convicted and answer any questions they may have.

Not many attorneys can say that they have successfully represented defendants charged with criminal and traffic offenses in the same locale for 33 years. I quess you can say that experience sets me apart. My location within walking distance of the courthouse is an asset my clients find convenient.

It is always rewarding to be able to represent a client and be influential in making the system work. I would have to say that the reward is twofold. One, the government has a job to do and the citizen has rights that need to be protected. If the government does its job properly, the system works and a wrongdoer has consequences. If the government fails in its duty to its citizens, the system fails and the wrongdoer goes without consequence. Its all checks and balances. Two, it is always rewarding when you have an innocent client to see justice prevail and know that you were instrumental in that outcome. I will always appreciate the opportunity to practice law and have that kind of influence and ability.

Other interests: Sailing, fishing, motorcycling, mountain and road biking, camping, snowboarding, hiking, running, reading.

In addition to practicing law I have been a Special Justice for the 15th Circuit for many years overseeing hearings for those alleged to be mentally ill. It is up to me to decide if that individual alleged to be suffering from a mental illness is, in fact, mentally ill; and to protect that citizens rights; and provide for their care and treatment with the help of the Community Services Board and hospital staff. I am also a member of the Fredericksburg Bar Assoc and the Va State Bar and Virginia Trial Assoc.

• Virginia State Bar Association
  Virginia Trial Lawyers Association
  Fredericksburg Bar Association