More Than Two Decades of Criminal Law Experience
Attorneys Michael and Alene Sprano, have more than two decades of combined experience as Northern Virginia criminal defense lawyers. They each began their careers as dedicated public defenders, diligently fighting through heavy caseloads that included everything from drug possession charges to violent crime charges. Both moved into private practice in order to provide more personal and individual attention to people accused of criminal offenses.
The Importance of Individual Attention
Our attorneys believe that individual attention is critical in criminal defense cases. We will begin our work on your case by listening to you. We will take the time to learn about your goals and what outcome you hope to achieve. This is important because there are different options available in every case. We want to make sure that the option you choose will lead to the outcome that is right for you.
For example, a person charged with a felony offense may find themselves facing a difficult choice. It is not always possible to get the case dismissed. In that case, the next best alternative is usually a reduction to a misdemeanor charge with no active jail sentence. We are often successful in achieving that result, particularly when it is a 1st offense felony and the facts are not that egregious. Sometimes however, the prosecutor will only agree to reduce the charge if the defendant agrees to do some time in jail in exchange. Usually in those cases the defendant is unlikely to serve any jail time if sentenced by a judge on the felony. The question is: what will impact the client's life the least, a felony with probation or a misdemeanor with jail time? There is no one answer. It depends on the individual circumstances of each client. Unfortunately, many defendants choose to hire the attorney who simply tells them what they want to hear, instead of being honest about the likely outcomes and choices that may have to be made. The defendant is then forced to make that decision in just a few minutes in the hall outside the courtroom, with no time to prepare, and without an attorney they trust to give them sound and honest advice. Don't let that happen to you.
Individual attention means that we take the time to ask the necessary questions, and really listen to your answers, and have an honest discussion about how best to achieve your goals. When you come to us for your initial appointment, we will gather all of the necessary facts, and then thoroughly explain all of the options and choices you are most likely to face as the case proceeds. We will explain the impact each option could have on your future. You can trust us to guide you down the path that is right for you.
The Importance of Trial Experience
Sometimes, the path that is chosen is one that doesn't involve a great deal of resistance. We can use our experience and negotiation skills to obtain a positive outcome.
However, there are times when a fight is necessary. When this happens, it is important to have a lawyer on your side who is skilled and experienced in the courtroom, who knows how to try a case, and who knows how to win. We are trial attorneys serving people accused of crimes in Fairfax and throughout Northern Virginia. We have successfully defended clients against seemingly overwhelming evidence including DNA, taped confessions, eyewitness identifications, and co-defendants testimony. If your case can be won, we can win it. Contact Us for a Free Consultation.
To discuss drug possession, shoplifting or any other criminal charge with one of our skilled and experienced attorneys, call us at 703-763-0979 or send us an e-mail.
Our office is located near the Fairfax County courthouse. We are open for appointments Monday through Friday, and available by phone and e-mail seven days a week.
Spanish language service is available.
