Newport News, VA Wills and Estates Attorney News Archive

As the trial date nears for J.C. and Re’Al Butler, who are accused of the first-degree murder of 26-year-old Martez Corey in Hampton, Virginia, grieving father William Corey expresses profound sorrow and a desire for justice. The tragic shooting, which William describes as an ambush on June 1, left visible bullet holes in the family home and altered their lives irrevocably.

The Butler brothers face multiple charges, including conspiracy to commit homicide and firearm violations. They are currently being held at the Western Tidewater Regional Jail as they await their trial set for March 24-27. William Corey, who is also dealing with civil litigation matters related to his son’s death, shared heartfelt memories of Martez, emphasizing their connection through fishing and shared laughter.

In the aftermath of this tragedy, the community is coming together to support the Corey family. They are advocating for closure and accountability within Virginia’s legal system, highlighting the need for justice in this devastating case.

A new legislative measure introduced by Del. Bonita Anthony, D-Norfolk, aims to reform visitation practices in Virginia's correctional institutions. This proposal addresses significant concerns raised by advocates and former inmates regarding current visitation policies.

The bill mandates that the Virginia Department of Corrections extend visitation access for long-distance travelers, minors, and those who visit infrequently, ensuring that visits last at least two hours. Critics of the current system, such as Christine Via and Taj Mahon-Haft, argue that existing rules create barriers that discourage family connections and negatively impact inmates' morale.

In addition to extending visitation rights, the legislation proposes an appeals process for the suspension of visitation privileges. It also requires the annual reporting of visitation data to state lawmakers. As this bill moves forward, it will play a crucial role in shaping civil litigation relating to inmates' rights in Virginia's prisons.

HAMPTON, Va. — A devastating fire at a boarding house on West County Street has resulted in the loss of two lives and left four others injured, sending shockwaves through the Hampton community. Among those injured is a firefighter who sustained minor injuries while bravely attempting to rescue individuals trapped inside, as reported by Battalion Chief Anthony Chittum of the Hampton Division of Fire and Rescue.

The boarding house, which had previously been a single-family home, was quickly engulfed in flames shortly after emergency responders received the distress call. The cause of the fire is currently under investigation by the Hampton Fire Marshal’s Office, with support from local departments including Newport News and Poquoson fire crews.

In the wake of this tragedy, community organizations such as the Red Cross are mobilizing to provide assistance to those affected. This situation highlights the importance of community solidarity and support during difficult times, as residents come together to aid one another in recovery and healing.

On January 12, the York County School Board in Virginia convened for a crucial reorganization meeting, during which Zoran Pajevic was appointed as Chair and James Richardson as Vice Chair. Pajevic, representing District Two, received unanimous support from fellow board members and expressed gratitude to the outgoing chair, Mrs. Goodwin, for her dedicated service.

With a renewed focus on improving educational conditions in York County, Pajevic and Richardson are set to tackle important issues affecting local education. Their leadership is anticipated to guide discussions on vital themes such as business and corporate governance, civil litigation, and their implications for wills and estates within the community.

The next board meeting is scheduled for January 26 at York Hall, where members will continue to engage in dialogue about the strategic initiatives that will shape the future of education in York County.

A tragic fire early Sunday morning on 51st Street in Newport News, Virginia, resulted in the loss of one life and left another resident injured. The Newport News Fire Department, under the leadership of Chief Wesley Rogers, responded to the emergency call at 1:47 a.m. as smoke engulfed the multi-unit dwelling. Firefighters adopted a defensive strategy to tackle the blaze and protect other nearby structures.

In the aftermath of the incident, six families were displaced. The American Red Cross stepped in to provide immediate support, offering temporary lodging and essential care kits to those affected.

This heartbreaking event serves as a stark reminder of the importance of fire safety in our communities. It underscores the need for reinforced personal safety measures, particularly in relation to housing and estate management in the region.

In Suffolk, Virginia, Janet Aston, 73, has entered a not guilty plea to 96 counts of animal cruelty. These charges stem from the alleged neglect of horses found on her property. Her husband, William Shelton, is also facing similar allegations, prompting their attorney, James Broccoletti, to express concerns regarding Shelton's mental competency during the legal proceedings.

The accusations against the couple involve failing to provide essential care for agricultural animals. In January 2025, authorities discovered living horses alongside others in various states of decay on a property owned by Aston’s brother, Dr. Sherrell Aston.

The case is set for trial from August 25-28, and local prosecutors plan to call over a dozen witnesses to testify. They aim to seek justice and accountability for this serious matter. If convicted, Aston and Shelton could face substantial fines and possible jail time under Virginia's civil litigation statutes concerning animal welfare.

In a significant development, the Virginia Parole Board has granted parole to Dustin “Dusty” Turner, a former Navy SEAL trainee who has been imprisoned since 1995 for his involvement in the high-profile Jennifer Evans case. After years of legal struggles surrounding Turner’s conviction, this ruling has sparked important conversations about criminal defense and civil litigation within Virginia’s justice system.

Legal experts point out that this case underscores the complexities associated with accessory charges, particularly given new evidence and testimonies that have emerged over the years. Notably, a recantation from Turner’s co-defendant, Billy Joe Brown, has come to light, adding further layers to an already intricate legal situation.

Attorney James Broccoletti, who represents Turner, has called for restorative justice, highlighting the need to address the realities faced by those who have spent decades behind bars.

As Turner's supporters celebrate this pivotal moment, the family of Jennifer Evans has expressed profound disappointment. They are calling for respect and understanding as they navigate this difficult time in Virginia Beach’s notable legal history.

NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – The family of 31-year-old Dewand McGowan is now in a heartbreaking situation as they raise funds for his funeral instead of celebrating his upcoming birthday. This tragedy follows his homicide outside a Wendy’s restaurant, leaving loved ones reeling from the loss.

Witness Linette Mason, a relative of Dewand, has voiced her frustration over the lack of accountability in the case, especially given the presence of surveillance cameras. She is urging authorities to take significant action to address this violence.

Dewand's brother, Takari Mason, has shared how the loss has deeply affected him as their family confronts the ongoing impact of gun violence. They are currently seeking support from the Newport News community to raise at least $9,000 for a dignified burial.

As they navigate their grief, the family is also considering their options for legal recourse. Residents and local leaders are encouraged to unite and assist in this cause during this somber time of mourning and reflection.

Governor Glenn Youngkin has unveiled a transformative initiative, designating $154.5 million in loans for 47 affordable housing projects throughout the Commonwealth of Virginia. This significant investment aims to assist low-income households and will see developments in various locations, including Virginia Beach, Newport News, York County, and Isle of Wight. Altogether, these projects are set to create 3,014 new homes.

This commitment represents the largest investment in the Affordable and Special Needs Housing program in Virginia's history. Youngkin highlighted that the initiative is poised to leverage an impressive $1.1 billion to enhance community welfare. By prioritizing accessible housing, the administration seeks to bolster Virginia's economy while reinforcing legal frameworks related to Real Estate and Wills and Estates.

For further details, individuals can visit the Virginia Department of Housing and Community Development's official webpage.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The grand opening of the new Trader Joe's store at 220 Constitution Drive took place on Friday, attracting excited shoppers from the local community. Among them was resident Jake Yeager, who expressed the joy of attending such community events.

Store captain Akil Dove emphasized the store's commitment to community well-being, notably through the Neighborhood Shares Program, which donates unsold products to local nonprofits. This initiative highlights the store's focus on corporate responsibility and community support.

The new Trader Joe's has also created more than 50 jobs, contributing to the economic vitality of Virginia Beach while enhancing the local shopping experience. With a strong emphasis on healthier ingredients and sustainability, this establishment showcases modern retail practices aligned with current trends in business and corporate responsibility.

Trader Joe's is not new to the area; nearby locations include existing stores in Newport News and Williamsburg, ensuring easy access to their offerings for consumers throughout Virginia.

A house fire on N 8th Street in Suffolk, Virginia, displaced four adults early on Sunday morning. Suffolk Fire & Rescue reported that crews arrived at 10:08 a.m. to find heavy smoke and flames. They successfully brought the fire under control by 10:23 a.m. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported.

The American Red Cross is currently assisting those affected by the fire. As the cause of the blaze remains under investigation, this situation raises important questions regarding property rights and liability as they relate to civil litigation and real estate law in Virginia.

Local authorities, including Suffolk's fire services, are stressing the significance of fire safety and preparedness. This incident serves as a reminder for both homeowners and renters to prioritize safety measures.

Pharondus Clemon, a 17-year-old resident of Portsmouth, Virginia, has pled guilty to first-degree murder for the tragic shooting of 17-year-old Jesse Hogg. This confirmation comes from Commonwealth’s Attorney Stephanie Morales. The incident stems from a botched marijuana transaction, underscoring pressing issues related to youth involvement in criminal defense and the need for reforms in civil litigation concerning gun violence.

During the confrontation, evidence revealed that Clemon shot Hogg, which led to the discovery of hidden firearms. As the case unfolds, sentencing is scheduled for April 27, 2026. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the persistent challenges posed by firearm-related crimes and their impact on families, particularly as they navigate the complexities of wills and estates in the aftermath of such tragedies.

Local officials are calling for a united effort to improve safety and justice for Virginia’s youth, stressing the importance of addressing these critical issues to protect the community at large.

The tragic shooting of youth football coach Diamante Neal at Patrick Henry Mall in Newport News, Virginia, has plunged his mother, Courtney Brown, into profound grief. In the wake of this violence, she is advocating for an end to community conflicts and a commitment to healing.

The confrontation between Neal and suspect Gary Moore III, which stemmed from a long-standing dispute, has led to serious legal repercussions for Moore, including multiple charges such as second-degree murder. This incident has prompted local legal experts and civil rights advocates to dive into the broader implications of the case, particularly regarding civil litigation and the adequacy of criminal defense protections.

As the community processes this heartbreaking event, many residents are left questioning the measures in place to ensure safety and prevent violence. Brown’s call for awareness emphasizes that the impact of such acts ripples throughout entire neighborhoods in Virginia.

With increasing discussions on improving conflict resolution strategies, community leaders are faced with the urgent task of addressing public safety and protecting the rights of all citizens to prevent future tragedies.

A tragic shooting took place late Wednesday night on Washington Avenue in Newport News, resulting in the death of a man who was rushed to a local hospital but, regrettably, did not survive his injuries. The Newport News Police Department arrived at the scene around 11:50 p.m. on November 26 to begin their investigation.

This incident is expected to lead to civil litigation and criminal defense proceedings, prompting local attorneys and community leaders to encourage residents to stay vigilant. The shooting has raised significant concerns about public safety in Virginia, with officials emphasizing the need for enhanced measures to address violence in the area.

Investigations are currently underway as authorities seek answers to this disturbing event, which has impacted the community and disrupted the peace of its residents.

WILLIAMSBURG, VA — The Greater Williamsburg Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee has launched the Home for the Holidays program to assist service members stationed at Naval Weapons Station Yorktown and other nearby military bases in reuniting with their families this holiday season. Since its inception in 2021, the program has provided $300 travel stipends, helping 198 service members reconnect with loved ones. The application period for 2025 is now open.

Ann Bowe, a prominent member of the committee, emphasized the emotional importance of these stipends. She noted that the program is essential in supporting military families, especially during challenging times marked by immigration and economic pressures stemming from the recent government shutdown.

To ensure all applicants receive the necessary assistance, the committee is seeking donations from the community. Contributions can be made online and are welcomed at various sponsorship levels. The deadline for service members to apply is November 26, 2023. Remaining funds will be allocated to future programs that support the military community in Virginia.

The City of Williamsburg, Virginia, is rolling out new holiday parking rates at the Prince George Parking Garage, aimed at providing convenience for both residents and visitors alike. From Thanksgiving Day through New Year’s Day, the first four hours of parking will be free, with an affordable hourly rate of just $1 after that.

This initiative reflects the city’s dedication to supporting holiday shoppers and fits into broader strategies related to real estate and business development in the area. With a total of 362 parking spaces, the garage also includes electric vehicle charging stations, addressing the increasing demand for sustainable transportation options.

City officials, along with local business leaders, are highlighting the significance of these adjustments in improving the overall experience during the festive season.

Gloucester County has made a significant move to bolster its business and corporate development by appointing Regine Biggers as the new Deputy County Administrator, starting November 17. Biggers brings a wealth of experience in real estate law and estate planning, making her an essential asset in shaping policies that influence property management and community growth in Virginia.

With her extensive background, Biggers is expected to enhance the county's strategies for business compliance and legal aspects related to wills and estates. Local officials, including the Chair of the Gloucester County Board, have voiced their confidence in her ability to improve the county’s administrative operations.

As she transitions into this pivotal role, Biggers’ collaborative initiatives are likely to create a thriving environment for both local businesses and families in the community.

In Newport News, Virginia, the family of 8-year-old Karmelo White is desperately searching for answers following a tragic hit-and-run incident. Karmelo was severely injured, suffering a fractured skull, when he was struck by an SUV while using a crosswalk after school. He is currently hospitalized at the Children's Hospital of the King's Daughters.

His aunt, Shalijah White, has voiced the family's anguish and is calling for the driver to come forward. She emphasized the emotional impact this tragedy has had on their lives, showcasing the family's deep distress during this challenging time.

The Newport News community is coming together to support Karmelo's family through various fundraising efforts. Meanwhile, local authorities urge anyone with information about the incident to step forward, as they continue their investigation. This heartbreaking case underscores important issues related to personal injury law and civil litigation in Virginia, particularly in hit-and-run scenarios.

The Williamsburg-James City County Schools in Virginia have proudly expanded their commitment to military families by earning four new Purple Star designations. This brings the total to eight military-friendly schools for the 2025-26 academic year.

The Virginia Department of Education awards these honors to schools that excel in supporting military-connected students and their families. This includes creating a welcoming environment and ensuring smooth transitions for students. Principal Panagiotis Tsigaridas of Berkeley Middle expressed his pride in this achievement, highlighting the school's dedication to every student, especially those from military families.

Meanwhile, Stonehouse Elementary Principal Melissa White emphasized the significance of fostering an inclusive atmosphere for military families, who often face the challenges of frequent relocations. With over 77,000 military-connected students enrolled in Virginia public schools, the division is committed to honoring their resilience in the face of family separations and deployments.

This Sunday, the Williamsburg Jewish community will come together for a poignant gathering to honor the return of all living hostages from Gaza. The event aims to inspire “remembrance, resilience, and hope” during these challenging times.

Meanwhile, Virginia lawmakers are engaged in important discussions about civil litigation reform, particularly in areas of Divorce and Family matters. These reforms could significantly impact families who are still reeling from the ongoing situation. Local attorney Sarah Cohen underscores the vital role of community support, especially as families face legal challenges related to wills and estates.

The solidarity shown by the Jewish community mirrors broader societal themes of healing and justice that resonate across Virginia. As these communities unite, elected officials in Richmond are actively advocating for legislative changes to assist families navigating complex legal landscapes.