Virginia criminal practice covers a range of topics, including the criminal case process, criminal procedure, and the rights of criminal defendants: 

• Criminal case process

  The criminal case process begins when a crime is reported to the police. The police investigate the crime, identify suspects, and locate witnesses. A search warrant may be issued if probable cause is found. 

• Criminal procedure

  Criminal procedure covers the steps in the criminal process, from arrest to sentencing and appeal. It also includes issues such as the defendant's rights, search and seizure, and pretrial motions. 

• Criminal defendant rights

  The rights of criminal defendants include the right to counsel, the right to not incriminate oneself, and protection from electronic eavesdropping. 

• Capital punishment

  Virginia abolished capital punishment in 2021, meaning that offenders in Virginia cannot be executed.