This CLE will cover how to prepare a criminal case, from start to finish, and include a discussion of recent cases and law changes. Specific topics will include how to come up with your theory of the case and integrate that theory from voir dire through closing argument. We will discuss strategies and how to evaluate the overall strength of a criminal case.
Hon. James ClarkPresiding JudgeAlexandria Circuit Court
A third generation Alexandrian, Jim Clark attended T.C. Williams High School, Bridgewater College and University of Richmond Law School. After law school he served as an assistant Commonwealth’s Attorney in Alexandria for two years then, with Carter Land, founded the firm that is now Land, Carroll and Blair. Since 2012 he has served as a judge for the 18th Judicial Circuit. Married to Mary, they raised their daughter Allie and son Trav and presently reside in Alexandria with their beloved dogs Doc and Blue.
Megan Thomas Deputy Public Defender Alexandria Office of the Public Defender
Megan Thomas is the Deputy Public Defender for the City of Alexandria. She graduated from Catholic University, Columbus School of Law in 2002 and clerked for the Honorable Mildred Edwards in the DC Superior Court. She joined the Public Defender's office in 2003 and has had the privilege of representing indigent clients since then. In 2009, Megan left the PD's office and joined the law office of King, Campbell & Poretz. During her time in private practice, she represented several high profile clients, including Charles Severance, along with Chris Leibig and Joe King. She returned to the PD's office in 2016 and became the Deputy in 2019. She is bilingual and takes particular pride in representing her Spanish-speaking clients, many of whom also face immigration consequences. Megan lives in the Del Ray neighborhood with her husband, 3 children & rescue dog.
Alexandria CourthouseThe Alexandria Bar Association520 King Street, Room 202Alexandria, VA 22314Monday - Thursday: 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. by telephone 703-548-1106 or email at alexbar@alexandriabarva.org
Alexandria Circuit CourtAlexandria General District CourtAlexandria Juvenile and Domestic Relations CourtGeneral Information for Virginia Courts
Lawyer Referral ServiceLegal Services of Northern VirginiaAlexandria Law LibraryVirginia State Bar