Violent Crimes

Violent crime charges in Virginia — murder, malicious wounding, robbery, and related offenses — carry some of the most serious penalties in the criminal code. These cases demand careful investigation, strong motions practice, and, when necessary, experienced trial counsel who is prepared to try the case to a jury.

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Attorney Chad G. Dorsk has defended people facing serious violent crime charges in Hampton Roads for nearly two decades. He is a trial lawyer who has obtained not-guilty verdicts in first-degree murder and malicious wounding cases and regularly tries serious felony cases in the region’s courts.

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Proven Trial Results in Violent Crime Cases

Real results matter more than claims. Chad Dorsk has secured acquittals in high-stakes violent crime jury trials that received local news coverage:

First-Degree Murder & Firearm Acquittal (2023)

In a Norfolk jury trial, Chad Dorsk obtained not-guilty verdicts on first-degree murder and use of a firearm charges. The defense was self-defense. The case received coverage from local news:

→ WTKR: “Newport News mother wants justice after son shot, killed by friend during argument”

 

Malicious Wounding Acquittal — Commonwealth v. Charleston Grant (2023)

In a high-profile malicious wounding case arising from a chaotic incident outside a Norfolk nightclub, the jury returned a not-guilty verdict on all charges:

→ Virginian-Pilot: “Man acquitted of dragging security guard in chaotic 2021 scene outside Norfolk nightclub”

 

Double Murder Acquittal — Commonwealth v. Steven Jones (2016)

In a first-degree double murder trial, Chad Dorsk obtained not-guilty verdicts on all counts:

→ Virginian-Pilot: “Two Norfolk defendants freed after double murder trial”

 

These results reflect thorough preparation, careful development of defenses (including self-defense), and a willingness to try cases when the evidence and the client’s interests require it.

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Self-Defense Discussion on Legal Lions

In a discussion on the Legal Lions podcast, Chad Dorsk addresses when a person can lawfully act in self-defense under Virginia law. The conversation is intended for general information only and is not formal legal advice.

→ Watch the discussion (TikTok)

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Violent Crime Charges We Defend

• Murder and manslaughter — Va. Code § 18.2-30

• Malicious wounding and aggravated malicious wounding — Va. Code § 18.2-51 and § 18.2-51.2

• Robbery — Va. Code § 18.2-58

• Carjacking — Va. Code § 18.2-58.1

• Unlawful wounding — Va. Code § 18.2-51.1

• Related firearm charges — including use of a firearm in the commission of a felony under Va. Code § 18.2-53.1

 

Suppression Issues: Confessions and Seized Evidence

Many violent crime cases turn on the admissibility of statements or physical evidence. An involuntary or improperly obtained confession, or evidence seized in violation of the Fourth Amendment, can be challenged through a motion to suppress. When successful, these motions can significantly weaken or even end the government’s case.

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Chad Dorsk regularly evaluates and litigates suppression issues involving confessions, searches, and seizures. For a more detailed discussion of this area of practice, see our page on Suppression Motions.

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How These Cases Are Defended — Trust and Teamwork

Violent crime cases often turn on witness credibility, self-defense, identification, forensic evidence, and the government’s ability to prove intent. Early investigation, careful review of discovery, and readiness to try the case when necessary are essential.

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These cases also work best when the client and attorney trust each other and operate as a team. Open communication, honest assessment of the evidence, and a shared commitment to the defense have produced acquittals and the strongest results in Chad Dorsk’s practice. When that working relationship is solid, the defense is stronger.

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A Hands-On Practice

Dorsk Law Office is a boutique criminal defense practice. We are not a large firm where clients get lost in the shuffle. Every case receives direct, hands-on attention from the attorney handling it. When you call the office, you will speak with a real person — Nanci — not a call center or automated system.

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Learn more about Chad Dorsk and the firm.

 

Related Defense Pages

Assault & Battery · Gun Crimes · Suppression Motions · Federal Criminal Defense · Criminal Defense

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Contact Us About a Violent Crime Charge

If you or a family member is facing murder, malicious wounding, robbery, or another serious violent crime charge in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, Chesapeake, or anywhere in Hampton Roads, call as early as possible.

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Call (757) 423-0271. When you call, you will speak with Nanci, a real person who can help you.

Call Today To Discuss Your Case.

Dorsk Law Office, PLC

409 Duke Street, Suite 100

Norfolk, VA 23510