Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Lawyer
Working to Provide a Strong Defense
Regardless of the criminal charges you face, you deserve a strong defense. I am Virginia Beach criminal defense attorney John J. Rice, and I have been aggressively defending clients facing serious criminal allegations since 1973. From military personnel to college students to visitors from out of state, I am ready to tenaciously protect and defend your rights.
Every year, I help hundreds of people throughout Virginia. Let me put my experience to work for you. Contact me, a Newport News defense lawyer, online or call 757-310-6441 to schedule a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
Experienced Defense Against All Criminal Charges
When you come to the law office of John J. Rice, Attorney & Counselor at Law, you will benefit from legal counsel with more than 39 years of experience. I provide seasoned defense against all types of criminal charges, including:
Traffic violations — I represent clients who have been accused of all types of traffic offenses, including speeding and reckless driving, or driving on a suspended or revoked license. I also represent out-of-town traffic offenders who have received a ticket while on vacation or while driving through the state.
Drunk driving — I defend first-time and habitual offenders facing all degrees of DUI/DWI charges, including manslaughter DUI charges. I also handle military DUI cases for military personnel. I will challenge the validity of field sobriety tests in an effort to develop a strong defense strategy.
Drug charges — I have extensive experience defending clients accused of driving under the influence of illegal drugs and prescription drugs. I also represent individuals suspected of cocaine possession, Ecstasy possession, marijuana possession, and the distribution and trafficking of all other illegal substances.
Theft and property crimes — I defend clients facing a wide range of charges, from shoplifting to grand theft auto.
Weapons charges — I represent clients accused of carrying a concealed weapon, possessing an illegal firearm and failing to register a firearm. I also defend clients who are facing charges of possessing a weapon in an airport.
Prostitution charges — I represent clients accused of prostitution and those accused of procuring prostitutes.
Violent crimes — I develop an aggressive defense strategy for individuals accused of rape and sexual assault, as well as people facing vehicular manslaughter and murder charges.
Military defense on criminal/traffic charges — As a former military officer, I understand what is at stake for military members who have been accused of criminal activity.
Underage drinking - possession of alcohol - DUI — A youthful mistake can result in a criminal record that may follow your child for life. I can help provide an aggressive defense against these charges.
An Aggressive Defense Strategy
I will consult forensic experts, lab technicians and investigative specialists to expose any errors in the prosecution's case. Part of my approach includes reviewing police reports and crime scene photographs to uncover any mistakes. In homicide cases, I investigate other suspects ignored by the police and take the time to track down witnesses not called by the prosecution.
You can count on me to conduct a thorough investigation of the circumstances of your arrest and the charges against you. I will energetically defend your rights because I believe that you deserve to be treated fairly and justly.
Call for a Consultation With a Williamsburg Drunk Driving Accident Attorney
If you are facing charges stemming from a drunk driving accident, or have been accused of any other crime, you need legal representation immediately. Contact me, a Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyer, online or call 757-310-6441 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your case. I can also be reached by phone after hours in emergency situations.


















