Firm Overview

30 Years of Criminal Defense Experience

If you needed surgery, would you want a doctor who had done this surgery 10 times, or the one who had handled hundreds of similar cases?

Chances are, you'd want the doctor with experience.

It's no different with a criminal defense attorney. Experience counts. I have been representing people with legal problems for more than 30 years. I bring to my law practice a strong sense of fair play, enthusiasm for the work of criminal defense, tenacity in seeking the best possible outcomes for my clients, and a real appreciation for the people I serve. I represent my clients as if they were members of my own family.

I have deep roots in the Virginia area. I've been an associate professor at Hampton University since 1973, retiring in 2006 after a successful academic career teaching law, management, and business skills to the future leaders of our community.

I served in the U.S. Army as an officer in Asia and the U.S., and as Commander of Company C, First Battalion. I received the Scabbard and Blade "Distinguished Military Graduate" award from the University of Richmond. I understand the effects that even a minor scrape with the law can have on a military career and am pleased to be able to assist active duty and retired military personnel when they face legal problems.

As a criminal defense lawyer, I represent the residents of Newport News, Virginia, and many surrounding communities. I represent officers and enlisted personnel from all branches of the Armed Forces. I represent many college students, often facing criminal charges for drug crimes, such as possession or sale of a controlled substance. I represent family members of college students pulled over for traffic offenses or drunk driving while visiting a local campus. I represent out-of-town tourists who have a run-in with the law while visiting Virginia on vacation.

Many of my clients find me by word of mouth referral. News of quality service and excellent results travels quickly.

If you are facing a court date or an administrative hearing for a traffic offense or DUI charge, contact me at the law office of John J. Rice. I offer experienced representation in criminal defense cases.