Virginia Beach Criminal Defense Attorney

If you’re facing criminal charges, having an experienced attorney on your side can make a difference. McCormack & McCormack provides focused criminal defense representation for clients throughout Virginia Beach and is prepared to help you understand your options and take the next step in your case.

Accused of a Crime in Virginia Beach? Call (757) 463-7224 Now.

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122 Google Reviews

7 Avvo Reviews

Super Lawyers Recognized

Former Prosecutor

Proven Criminal Defense Representation in Virginia Beach

Don't face the
uncertainty alone.

An arrest and criminal charge are stressful and often life-changing experiences. There is the possibility of criminal penalties and a permanent criminal record when you are charged with a single charge, multiple charges, a misdemeanor, or a felony in Virginia Beach. Penalties can range from a few days in jail to lengthy prison sentences, fines, probation, and other measures. You can be denied employment, housing, professional licenses, and more because of a permanent criminal record, which can be accessed easily online by others. After being arrested and charged with a crime in Virginia Beach, you need to retain an experienced, aggressive, and successful criminal defense lawyer to handle your case and fight for your charges to be dismissed or for you to be found not guilty at trial. McCormack & McCormack has handled criminal defense cases since 1982 and the firm’s attorneys have extensive experience defending military men and women. We are more than capable of fighting your criminal charges, no matter how serious they may be. Don’t just take our word for it, click here to see how our previous clients feel about us. To request an initial consultation with a military criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, please call (757) 463-7224 today or contact us online.

What Do Criminal Defense Lawyers Do?

A criminal defense attorney represents individuals accused of violating Virginia law and works to protect their legal rights throughout the criminal process. Depending on the circumstances, your attorney may investigate the allegations, examine evidence, negotiate with prosecutors, file motions, challenge evidence, negotiate potential resolutions, or take your case to trial.

At McCormack & McCormack, our Virginia Beach criminal defense lawyers provide individualized representation based on the facts and circumstances of each case.

Case Evaluation:

We begin by learning about the allegations against you and reviewing the circumstances surrounding your arrest or charge. Our attorneys evaluate the available information and help you understand your legal options.

Investigation:

A strong defense requires careful preparation. We examine available evidence, review relevant records, evaluate witness information, and identify issues that may affect the prosecution's case.

Building A Defense Strategy:

Every criminal case presents different facts and legal issues. We develop a defense strategy based on the specific charges, evidence, and circumstances involved in your case.

Negotiations & Resolution:

Depending on the circumstances, a criminal case may be resolved through dismissal, reduction of charges, a negotiated agreement, or another favorable resolution. Our attorneys evaluate the available options and work to protect your interests throughout the process.

Trial Representation:

When a case proceeds to trial, preparation matters. Our attorneys have extensive trial experience and are prepared to challenge the prosecution's evidence, cross-examine witnesses, present defenses, and advocate for you in court.

Protecting your future:

A criminal charge can affect more than your immediate case. A conviction may affect your employment, professional opportunities, reputation, driving privileges, family, or other aspects of your future. Our attorneys work to protect your rights and pursue the best possible outcome under the circumstances.

If you have been accused of a crime, don’t wait to get in touch with our firm. To request an initial consultation with a criminal defense lawyer in Virginia Beach, please call (757) 463-7224 now.

Proven Defense Lawyers
with Decades of Experience

McCormack Team

When Your Freedom, Career, or Future Is at Risk, Experience Matters

Attorneys Greg D. McCormack and Jarrett L. McCormack are both seasoned trial lawyers with years of experience in criminal defense. Attorney Robert Canoy served multiple tours of duty as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor. In his final assignment, he served as Chief of the Trial Services Branch in Norfolk, Virginia where he was responsible for the investigation and prosecution of all courts-martial for the U.S. Coast Guard for the eastern half of the United States.

Mr. Jarrett McCormack clerked for the Law Firm of Greg D. McCormack for 10 years, and served as an intern with the U.S. Navy JAG Corps while in law school. He focuses his practice primarily on defending clients accused of criminal offenses in Virginia state and federal courts, and has built a reputation as an aggressive and tactical trial attorney. He is licensed by the Virginia State Bar, and is admitted to practice law by the United States Court of Appeals for the Armed Forces, as well as the federal courts, and provides skillful representation for defendants across the state.

Our firm has extensive case results proving our ability to handle any type of criminal defense case you may be facing.

Experienced Criminal & Military
Defense Attorneys

Results Driven and
Client Focused Since 1982

Greg D. McCormack

Greg D. McCormack

OF COUNSEL

Greg D. McCormack is a former U.S. Army Judge Advocate with decades of experience representing military and civilian clients in complex criminal, administrative, and federal matters. Known for his aggressive courtroom advocacy, sharp cross-examination skills, and straightforward approach, Greg has successfully represented thousands of clients throughout his career and is committed to providing honest, relentless defense for every client he serves.

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Jarrett L. McCormack

Jarrett L. McCormack

President

Attorney Jarrett L. McCormack focuses on criminal defense in state and federal courts, with extensive experience representing current and former military members, including cases involving security clearances and military disciplinary actions. Known for his analytical approach and aggressive courtroom advocacy, Jarrett is committed to developing the strategy that best positions each client for success.

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Robert W. Canoy Jr.

Robert W. Canoy Jr.

Senior Attorney

Attorney Robert Canoy brings more than a decade of criminal litigation experience, including 11 years as an active-duty military Judge Advocate. He has served as both a trial defense counsel and prosecutor, handling more than 500 criminal cases ranging from minor offenses to serious charges including sexual assault and homicide. Now with McCormack & McCormack, he continues to serve as a JAG officer in the military reserves, bringing extensive courtroom and military legal experience to every case.

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Drew T. Lail

Drew T. Lail

ASSOCIATE Attorney

Attorney Drew T. Lail is an associate at McCormack & McCormack, representing clients in family law, criminal defense, and traffic matters. A former U.S. Navy aircraft structural mechanic and federal police officer, Drew brings firsthand military and law enforcement experience to his legal practice. He earned his J.D. from Regent University School of Law and is admitted to practice in all Virginia courts. Known for his dedicated and practical approach, Drew works to provide strong advocacy tailored to each client’s unique circumstances.

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What our clients
say about us

Excellent
McCormack & McCormack4.7
Based on 127 reviews
Michael
6 days ago
Keenan Smith
3 weeks ago
Mr. Drew Lail is an up and coming Attorney and I trusted him. Not much of a reputation but he stood on business at Virginia Beach Courthouse. That is not an easy Courthouse by any means but he gave me a strategy and we came out successfully. I had no doubt that he would take care of my issue. I highly recommend McCormack & McCormack, hell I dropped my previous Attorney for Mr. Lail and it was the best decision I have made
Excellent Hampton Roads law firm! Jarrett McCormack is an awesome local criminal defense attorney. You won’t be disappointed!
L C
1 month ago
I truly cannot express how grateful our family is to McCormack & McCormack. During one of the most frightening and difficult experiences of our lives, Jarrett McCormack, Robert Canoy Jr., and Drew Lail fought tirelessly for us and ultimately helped secure a not-guilty verdict on all charges. Their preparation, dedication, compassion, and confidence in the courtroom were extraordinary, but what meant just as much to us was the way we were treated as people throughout the entire process. Courtney was an incredibly kind, helpful, and supportive paralegal, and the entirety of the staff was always pleasant, patient, and willing to help whenever we needed them. We will never forget what this team did for our family. They gave us support and hope when we desperately needed both, and their work ultimately helped give us our lives back. We will be forever grateful to Jarrett, Robert, Drew, Courtney, and everyone at McCormack & McCormack. I could not recommend this firm more highly. ❤️
Jessica Norris
1 month ago
I should’ve went to jail today but because of this amazing team of defense attorneys I am free 10/10 definitely recommend them specifically drew lail who assisted me on my second case and the reason I’m not behind bars and jarret mccormack and drew lail who worked together on my first
Angelo Adelan
4 months ago
Robert Canoy was an outstanding attorney who helped me through a difficult military-related legal matter. From the beginning, he was professional, knowledgeable, and dedicated to my case. He worked tirelessly, explored every possible avenue, and always kept me informed throughout the process. His commitment, attention to detail, and willingness to go above and beyond gave me confidence during a challenging time. I truly appreciate everything he did for me and would highly recommend him to anyone seeking strong legal representation.
Wanda Walters
4 months ago
I am speechless at how well Mr Jarrett McCormack handled my case. He shredded the lies that were spoken against me for years and brought the truth to light. Mr Jarrett McCormack is an amazing lawyer who loves what he does. Trust him when he says he will take good care of you!
Tim S
8 months ago
Not guilty on all charges! Jarret McCormack is an amazing trial lawyer. I was facing multiple false charges from my ex, including false protective order that prevented me from even able to see my child in over a year. This was the most stressful year of my life. All charges found 100% not guilty and the protective order was denied, allowing me to see my child for the first time in almost a year!!! This was a case with a massive amount of evidence and backstory. Jarret was able to pick up and dig deep on every lie and inconsistency in my exs testimony. He was fast and intelligent in his cross examination. We didnt even have to go through 20% my evidence for the not guilty verdict, which speaks to his ability and efficiency.
Bubba
9 months ago
Antonio Williams
9 months ago
McCormack & McCormack has gained more than a stamp of approval from me. My career and the ability to provide for my family was threatened. I didn’t go to court martial however over the course of 20 months “almost 2 years” I finally stood an ADSEP board. Robert Canoy utterly destroyed the government’s defense and poked holes in all their manipulative tactics so that I received a just decision. The final decision was no basis for misconduct and retention. This law firm is more than worthy of your trust if you so choose to obtain their counsel. They’re direct with communication and will not sugar coat your odds of victory. Though stressful I was told time tables beforehand and always was aware of my odds and chances going through every phase of my case. Which is why honesty upfront matters regarding your case. They’re more than knowledgeable, they’re experienced and it showed. Not just the lawyers but the paralegals like Kat and Shyanna. They knew military instructions beforehand and were timely as well as efficient with solutions to problems. Their help was crucial when submitting statements and preparing mentally to face a board. Nothing but heartfelt appreciation towards those woman. They work hard. In the waiting it may not seem as if there’s movement or progress. However behind the scenes or when it was time to board calls were made, emails sent, statements we’re ready, evidence procured, and they knew more ways than one to approach the case and increase the odds of victory. The entire team was on point and had great attention to detail with all facts regarding my case. They are worth every penny. I can’t truly quantify how great this team is in just this statement alone. They truly deserve more than five stars. I highly recommend this amazing Law firm.
Noah Sibley
10 months ago
Jarret McCormick I can not express my gratitude for your help. I would highly recommend you to any one in need of legal council you thoughtfully and articulately guided me through this process from start to finish with the best possible outcome. A special thank you to Courtney for always being available for any and all questions. All the best, Noah
Leo Chin
1 year ago
They tried to end my career but this legal team made sure the truth won. A week before hitting my 18-year mark in the Navy, my Commanding Officer was still searching for a reason to separate me. First it was unauthorized absence. Then disobeying a general order. Months later, they threw in a charge for falsifying leave requests. Every time, I invoked my rights. Every time, they failed to produce real evidence. But that didn’t stop them. They put me on legal hold. Canceled my orders. Sent NCIS after me. Eleven months of silence, stress, and watching my career hang in the balance because one senior female officer let personal bias override fairness and due process. Then came the Administrative Separation notice that was vague, baseless, and another desperate attempt to push me out before retirement eligibility. That’s when Robert Canoy and his defense team, Eugene, Kat, and Shyanna showed up like a wall between me and injustice. Robert Canoy is the kind of counsel you want when the stakes are high. Sharp, steady, and unshakable, he instantly recognized the weak foundation of the case against me and built a strong, strategic defense with precision. Eugene brought a calming presence and deep knowledge of legal nuance. He asked the right questions, kept everything organized, and was key in translating legal complexity into a story the board could understand and believe. Shyanna was the team's quiet strength. Meticulous, determined, and laser-focused on details, she spotted inconsistencies that made a huge difference in our prep and ultimately helped dismantle the allegations. Also was the human side of the defense with empathetic, approachable, and passionate about getting it right. She made me feel heard when I felt ignored, and seen when I felt invisible. Together, they didn’t just represent me. They fought for me. When I felt like I had no voice, they gave me one. When I felt like a target, they treated me like a person. They presented the truth with confidence and clarity and when the time came, the board saw right through the smoke. Unanimous decision: 3–0 for retention. No hesitation. No doubt. If you ever find yourself under unfair fire, with your career or reputation on the line, this is the legal team you want by your side. They saved mine.
Micah Sandlin
1 year ago
I’m going to be honest, Mr Maccormack and his team are the absolute 100% best you can get for every penny spent. If you are looking for someone to help you with the best possible outcome look no further. Not only did he help my end result but also gave me tools to further myself during the process. Truly a master of his profession!
Don't sweat the small stuff as they're just that and with McCormick & McCormick you are in good hands.Integrity,Justice,Dismissals,Military friendly and now Family 🫡.
Andy Boateng
2 years ago
I was facing my 2nd reckless driving charge and they were able to bring it down to a minor traffic infraction, The paralegal Shyanna was one of the best people I have ever met she comforted me and ensured every thing was going to be alright, I am happy to say she stayed true to her word. Hopefully I don’t have trouble with the law again but if I do I know McCormack & McCormack got me!!
Jacob Walker
2 years ago
Professionals. 10/10 experience in AND outside the courtroom. Well worth every penny.
Muaiyad Qarat
2 years ago
Great service and got the result I really wanted, would definitely recommend
Jaquin Miele
2 years ago
Mr. Jarrett McCormack is the best lawyer I could’ve asked for
Mr McCormick had me feeling very confident from the first call! Little to no contact and I was stressed for nothing! He had this case dismissed before we walked through the doors! Trust in him !!!
Mike
2 years ago
The team at McCormack & McCormack were amazing, helping me through the long process of my military case. I could not have found a better legal team. Thank you Rob and Kat for all of the great work.
SelfHigh77
2 years ago
I had a really great experience with mccormick in mccormick; The staff was always there to answer questions.in a timely manner.
Mark Kearsing
2 years ago
Sharing a first hand experience after almost a two year legal fight of my life in the military. This law firm is without a doubt, the best in the business in the Hampton Roads Area, and probably even the entire state of Virginia. Considering the northern Virginia region, and Richmond, that’s saying something. I was represented by Rob Canoy Jr. in my legal matter and he was tremendous in helping to achieve the desired outcome in my case. His calm, cool, professional demeanor put me at ease from Day 1, and gave me the utmost confidence that we would succeed in the end. I was falsely accused of violating a military policy. It adversely impacted my pending commission and would have me detached for cause from my unit receiving a letter of reprimand. This was an extremely tough punishment especially after being defamed and lied about. Rob Canoy Jr., along with Kat Hensley (paralegal) got to work right away and secured all applicable documentation; and began strategizing on how to navigate this process. After eighteen months from start to finish, yesterday I received a unanimous vote to be retained in the military with a 3-0 no basis for misconduct ruling at an administrative separation board. The evidence Mr. Canoy presented and the diligent work he did in preparing for this important day showed through almost like a performance out of a movie. His attention to detail, effective utilization of witnesses, leveraging of resources, and astute knowledge of military law, directly led to my positive result. If I’d be allowed to have popcorn during his closing statement, I would have had some. It was incredible how he dissected every false allegation made against me; presented polygraph evidence supporting our testimony, and used opposing witnesses to our advantage. I can’t express enough in this review how special this legal team truly is. They are beyond what you need; and you should not hesitate twice if you need a strong legal defense in any circumstance. I will forever be grateful to Rob Canoy Jr. and Kat Hensley for their tireless and professional fight to save my career and ensure the truth won out. They are top notch professionals and people. Thank you so much for getting my life back on track after an extremely challenging time.
A C
2 years ago
Professional and knowledgeable. Thank you for all the hard work and support for my family and me.
Tyrone Mason
2 years ago
Thank you so much Jarrett McCormack for the tireless effort you put forth in my case. Not only was an innocent man found Not Guilty, by the end of the trial the entire courtroom was convinced of it by the great closing argument you gave. But, the same passion was shown throughout this 20 month ordeal. You and your staff were timely with information and kept me well engaged with every step of the case. I never felt like you didn’t feel like you were being put on trial as well. During the trial you showed a keen way of dissecting each point the prosecution attempted to make. You let me know what direction they would go and you had an answer each and every time. It was almost like a scripted movie if not my freedom was at risk. I recommend any and all that require legal assistance because you’ll be the right person to have on their side. Thank you again.
blake white
3 years ago
Calling McCormack and McCormack in my time of need was the best decision I have ever made in my life. 5 stars is truly not enough for the amount of professionalism, care, and dedication they have shown me throughout the time we have worked together. Words can’t simply express the amount of gratitude or how much I would recommend them to anybody who needs an attorneys office who specializes in military affairs.