FAQs

Which areas of Virginia do you serve?
We represent clients in Newport News and across Hampton Roads, including York County and Williamsburg, throughout Coastal Virginia and across the Commonwealth of Virginia.
Who will handle my case?
John Haugh leads the team for criminal defense cases; Shannon Lemm leads the team for family law cases. You may have one or both attorneys on your case, with a strategy created specifically for your case. Your case is handled by a team, and you always have direct access to your attorney.
Are you prepared to go to trial if needed?"
Yes, we are trial-ready when negotiation is not enough. Our team includes a former Chief Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney and brings extensive courtroom experience in Hampton Roads, Newport News, Williamsburg, York County, and throughout the Commonwealth.
How do I get started?
Call us at (757) 272-0003 or submit the consultation form on our website. We respond quickly and will guide you on the next steps.

Criminal Defense FAQs

What makes Haugh & Lemm's criminal defense approach different?
We provide a trial-tested strategy from day one, direct access to your attorney, and prosecutorial insight from a former Chief Deputy Commonwealth’s Attorney. We build your defense immediately and fight to reduce or dismiss charges whenever possible.
Which criminal cases do you handle?
We defend DUI and serious traffic offenses, serious drug charges, and violent crimes, including assault and battery, domestic violence, forgery, theft, credit card fraud, larceny, shoplifting, robbery, burglary, firearm/weapons offenses, manslaughter, and homicide.
What should I do right after an arrest in Newport News?
Exercise your right to remain silent and ask for a lawyer. Write down what happened, and contact a lawyer ASAP.
How long does a criminal case take in Virginia?
Every case is different, so it's important to contact an attorney ASAP. Generally speaking, misdemeanors may move in weeks to a few months. Felonies, however, usually take longer because of grand jury, discovery, and motions.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Your summons or warrants, court notices, any protective orders, prior records, names of witnesses, photos or videos, and questions you want answered.

What makes Haugh & Lemm's experience in family law different?
Our clients need fierce advocacy for family law matters. We provide a proven strategy. You will have direct access to your attorney, along with a team to support you. Shannon Lemm has personal and professional experience that gives her unique insight on how to handle your claim.
What family law matters do you handle?
We represent clients in divorce, custody, visitation, child support, spousal support, and property division matters, including high-conflict and high-asset cases.
Do you handle military divorce?
Yes. We handle military divorces and the unique issues they present, including parenting schedules, benefits, and jurisdictional considerations.
How do you approach high-conflict custody or divorce cases?
We listen first, then build a practical, personalized strategy. Our team has decades of experience from negotiated settlements to high-conflict trials, and we keep you informed at every step.
What should I bring to my consultation?
Bring any documents that support your case, such as images, videos, messages, restraining orders, prior records, witnesses, and any other documents that may be helpful to your case.