Practice Areas

Criminal Defense

In the state of Delaware, there are several different ways in which a person can get into trouble with the law. If you find yourself on the wrong side of a dispute with the state of Delaware in any of these areas of law, you should not hesitate to co… Read More

DUI Defense

A Delaware charge for Driving under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs is a serious criminal offense that carries severe penalties, even for a first offense. If you were charged with Driving under the Influence of Alcohol or Drugs, you need aggressive… Read More

Drug DUI

The geographic position of the state of Delaware has not been a benefit in the fight on drugs. The state is bordered on one side by Pennsylvania, on two sides by Maryland and on its most eastern border by New Jersey. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Ba… Read More

Ambien DUI

Ambien is a very commonly prescribed sleeping medication that is prescribed for sleep disorders. When used as directed it can help those who struggle with getting a full night’s sleep. If Ambien is not taken as prescribed, is used in conjunction wi… Read More

Cocaine DUI

A drunk driving charge can happen one of two ways in Delaware. If you have been drinking alcoholic beverages and are above the legal limit of .08 and are pulled over you can be arrested for driving while intoxicated in Delaware. Another way you can b… Read More

Heroin DUI

Not all DUI’s in Delaware are due to alcohol consumption. Many times they are due to driving under the influence of street drugs and or prescribed medications. A very common drug in Delaware is heroin. Heroin users may sometimes go to their dealers… Read More

Marijuana DUI

A driving under the influence charge can happen one of two ways in Delaware. If you have been drinking alcoholic beverages and are above the legal limit of .08 and are pulled over you can be arrested for DUI in New Castle County, Delaware. The second… Read More

Methamphetamine DUI

You can be arrested for DUI or DWI one of two ways in Delaware. If you have been indulging in alcoholic beverages and are above the legal limit of .08 and are pulled over you can be arrested for driving while intoxicated in Delaware. Another way you… Read More

Oxycontin DUI

Oxycontin is a commonly prescribed opiate based painkiller. Oxycontin is the brand name of the generic painkiller oxycodone and it is also an incredibly strong narcotic that will impair your ability to operate a vehicle. In addition, Oxycontin is a v… Read More

Vicodin DUI

A very commonly prescribed opiate based painkiller is Vicodin. Vicodin is the brand name of the generic drug hydrocodone. If you are caught driving after taking Vicodin you can be arrested for DUI EVEN IF IT IS LEGALLY PRESCRIBED. Despite the warning… Read More

Breathalyzer Test Defense

Like many other states, if you are stopped for a DUI in Delaware it is not against the law to refuse to take a breathalyzer test. However, the police may take your driver’s license and you risk an immediate suspension for refusing field sobriety te… Read More

DMV Hearings

Most drivers that are pulled over and charged with a DUI or DWI do not fully comprehend that their arrest has two components: Criminal as well as an Administrative component at the Department of Motor Vehicle. As a result, the criminal court system a… Read More

DUI Plea Bargains

Retaining an attorney for a DUI charge in Delaware offers you many benefits. One advantage is attorneys know the law and the legal process much more in depth than you. In today’s world the internet provides us with a wealth of information, some of… Read More

DUI Process

When you are pulled over and charged with a DUI in Delaware there are several stages, or phases, of your case. The outcome of one phase may have a direct impact in the next so it is important that attention to detail is paid and a complete gathering… Read More

Delaware CDL DUI Laws

If you are a professional driver and are the owner of a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) in Delaware you are at risk of losing much more than the average person should you be convicted of DUI or other traffic offenses. Delaware CDL DUI laws ar… Read More

Field Sobriety Tests

Several decades ago The National Highway Safety Administration (NHSTA) developed the current Field Sobriety Test system. They were developed as a means and method of potentially and theoretically determining how intoxicated someone is. The Field Sobr… Read More

First DUI

It is critical to know the various laws surrounding a first offense DUI in Delaware. A first offense can be less serious than a second or subsequent offense, but there are various types of violations to be aware of and aggravating factors that can co… Read More

Ignition Interlock Device

Presently, the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has 2 programs available for the Ignition Interlock Device: First Offense Election – Ignition Interlock Device (FOE-IID) Diversion as well as a voluntary Ignition Interlock Device (IID) progr… Read More

Moped DUI Laws

Many states in North America categorize mopeds or scooters differently than motorcycles and therefore can be exempt from certain laws such as licensing regulations, traffic violations and drunk driving laws. In Delaware however, a moped, motor scoote… Read More

Motorcycle DUI

Delaware DUI laws regarding motorcycle operators are the exact same as someone operating a car or truck. While owning a motorcycle may be a fun, exciting and thrilling means of transportation you are still responsible for adhering to drunk driving la… Read More

Out of State DUI

Delaware, being a very transient state, has many people working, vacationing and visiting here despite living in a surrounding state. Oftentimes while visiting, vacationing or traveling for work people indulge in drinking alcoholic beverages. With th… Read More

Reinstating A Delaware Driver’s License

After getting a driving under the influence charge in Delaware your driver’s license will be suspended or revoked. You may apply for a reinstatement once the license suspension or revocation period expires. If your license has been suspended you ca… Read More

Subsequent Offense DUI

A single conviction for driving under the influence can turn your life upside down due to several reasons. A DUI conviction can impact your livelihood, your ability to be employed and your personal life. Legal & financial penalties, consequences… Read More

Drug Crimes

Drug charges are serious and a conviction carries severe penalties that can range from probation and mandatory drug treatment to substantial fines and jail time. If you were charged with a drug crime in Delaware, you need an experienced drug crime la… Read More

Bath Salts

There is a new type of street drug in Delaware that resembles ‘bath salts’ or bath soaking crystals. The street name for the new designer drug is ‘bath salts’. Being in possession of, selling or distributing of the designer drug known as ‘b… Read More

Drug Dealing

Dealing drugs, regardless of the type or amount, is a crime in Delaware. A drug sale, drug dealing or drug trafficking charge is very serious in Delaware. If you have been charged with drug dealing in Delaware you need to speak to a Delaware Drug Dea… Read More

Drug Houses

In the state of Delaware it is illegal to maintain a property used to cultivate, manufacture, sell or produce drugs or narcotics of any kind. Being caught, and ultimately convicted of, maintaining a drug property is a felony that will exert very seri… Read More

Drug Paraphernalia

In the state of Delaware it is a crime to be in possession of illegal drugs, narcotics and controlled substances. It is also illegal to possess any tools, devices or instruments that may be used to take, ingest, inhale or inject those drugs, narcotic… Read More

Drug Possession

All arrests due to drug crimes in Delaware are very serious. One of the more common types of drug crimes committed in Delaware is drug possession. This means that at the time of the arrest you were caught with drugs or drug paraphernalia on you. Ofte… Read More

Drug Quantity Tiers

In Delaware any drug crime charge is serious and should be treated as such. They are either misdemeanors or felonies and this is dictated typically by the amount of drug, type of drug and what you intend to do with it when you are caught. Delaware ut… Read More

Heroin

Delaware, just like other states, has very strict and very serious legal penalties for those arrested for possession of heroin, sale of heroin and heroin trafficking. If you are charged with, and convicted of, breaking Delaware heroin laws you are in… Read More

Marijuana Laws

In the state of Delaware, as well as the majority of the United States, it is against the law to possess, sell, deliver, cultivate or traffic marijuana. Marijuana use in Delaware is very common. The use of marijuana can typically lead to the use of h… Read More

Marijuana Possession

Marijuana is one of the most common street drugs used in Delaware. People of all ages, races and socio-economic classes use it. Despite its popularity possessing marijuana is illegal in Delaware. If caught possessing marijuana you will face many seve… Read More

Methamphetamine Charges

Methamphetamine is a very serious type of street drug in Delaware. The use of crystal methamphetamine crosses all race, gender and socio-economic barriers. Crystal meth is not typically a social drug in Delaware bars, parties or schools. Its users ty… Read More

Possession of Cocaine

Cocaine is a readily available and inexpensive recreational narcotic in Delaware. It is also one of the more common narcotics used socially at bars, clubs, parties, beaches and on college campuses. A cocaine charge of any kind in Delaware is very ser… Read More

Prescription Forgery

In Delaware narcotics and street drugs are readily available. Anyone and everyone who is looking for them can easily obtain them throughout the state. No longer are narcotics crimes based around street or recreational drugs such as marijuana, cocaine… Read More

Sex Crimes

Sex crimes are some of the most serious and emotionally charged crimes a person can face. A sex crime conviction carries the possibility of jail time, substantial fines, and being required to register as a sex offender. The mere allegation that you c… Read More

Child Pornography

child pornography charge is extremely serious. If suspected of being involved in child pornography you can be arrested and many of your personal assets can be seized such as your personal computer, laptop and hard drive. If images involving children… Read More

Prostitution

Prostitution is very common in Delaware. The internet has a lot to do with that as there are many online dating sites that are thinly veiled sites promoting prostitution. If found guilty of prostitution, soliciting a prostitute or patronizing a prost… Read More

Rape

Rape is a legal term generally used to describe an unwanted, unwelcomed or forced sexual act. Sexual abuse or sexual assault is also used to describe these acts. There are several different types of rape such as statutory rape, date rape and rape. Ea… Read More

Sex Offender Registration Removal

In New Castle County, Delaware if you are convicted of a sex offense, even a minor one, you may be forced to register as a sex offender. This is true even if you have been wrongly convicted. With the help of a skilled and experienced attorney you may… Read More

Property Crimes

The Law Office of Brian J. Chapman represents people charged with felony and misdemeanor property crimes, including theft (larceny), robbery, shoplifting, possession of shoplifters’ tools, and other property crimes. Regardless of the charge, Mr. Ch… Read More

Possession of Shoplifters Tools

If you are arrested for shoplifting in Delaware you may face additional charges such as trespassing and disorderly conduct. You may also face more severe charges if you are caught being in possession of shoplifters tool or shoplifters instruments. Th… Read More

Robbery

Robbery is s type of theft crime that involves the threat of force or use of force during or after the theft. There are 2 classes of robbery charges and each are felonies. If you have been arrested for robbery charges in Delaware you should speak wit… Read More

Shoplifting

The state of Delaware views shoplifting, a crime commonly committed by minors, a very serious offense. If convicted, the charge can follow you around for many years and effect your employability and your academic status among other things. If you, or… Read More

Theft

Theft is a very common type of property crime in Delaware. It will also exert very serious consequences on your life if you are convicted of theft. If you have been arrested for any type of theft crime in Delaware you should speak with a skilled and… Read More

Misdemeanors

While misdemeanor charges are less serious than felonies, a misdemeanor conviction can still have severe and far-reaching consequences, and you must take the charges seriously. Penalties for a misdemeanor conviction can include fines, probation, comm… Read More

Disorderly Conduct

Disorderly conduct is a general misdemeanor charge in Delaware. It can involve any number of offenses such as vandalism and being drunk in public among others. A disorderly conduct charge can quickly become very expensive and can just as quickly comp… Read More

Drunk In Public

Being drunk in public, also known as public intoxication, is a common crime in Delaware. It is especially common near the beaches, University of Delaware campus and Delaware State University. While it is not a crime to be drunk in Delaware it is agai… Read More

Harassment

Harassment is a serious offense in the state of Delaware. It is a misdemeanor that is often associated with other charges such as stalking, menacing and disorderly conduct. If you have been accused of harassment in Delaware you should speak to a Dela… Read More

Offensive Touching

In the state of Delaware there are various levels of violent crimes. Some are more serious than others from a legal standpoint. Offensive touching is one of these offenses and should not be taken lightly. If you, or your child, have been charged with… Read More

Reckless Endangerment

The state of Delaware views reckless endangerment as a serious crime. It can be classified as a misdemeanor or felony depending on several factors such as the circumstances surrounding your arrest and your previous criminal record. If you are facing… Read More

Urinating In Public

Public urination is a very common crime committed in Delaware. This is particularly true on college campuses such as University of Delaware, Delaware State University and at the Delaware beaches. It is usually lumped in with disorderly conduct charge… Read More

Felonies

Delaware law classifies crimes as either a felony or misdemeanor. Felony charges are more serious than misdemeanors and are punished more severely. A felony conviction carries a longer potential prison sentence and higher fines. If you were charged w… Read More

Juvenile and Student Offenses

Delaware law treats juveniles differently than adults when they are charged with a crime. Effective legal representation in Delaware juvenile court requires specialized experience from a juvenile defense attorney who understands the Delaware juvenile… Read More

Juvenile DUI

In the state of Delaware the age to legally purchase and drink alcoholic beverages is 21 just like the rest of the country. The legal limit for Blood Alcohol Content while operating an automobile is .08%, again just like the rest of the United States… Read More

Minor In Possession

Possession laws that affect minors in Delaware are not limited to illegal drugs, but can also include the alcohol and drug paraphernalia. The severity of the crime is often determined by a combination of factors, including the age of the minor, if th… Read More

Student Lawyers

If you are a student at the University of Delaware it is expected that you will adhere to local Newark, Delaware laws, rules, regulations and ordinances. If you violate any local laws you are subject to local penalties and consequences imposed by the… Read More

Underaged Consumption

It is illegal to drink alcoholic beverages under the legal drinking age of 21 in Delaware. If you or your child or relative has been charged with underage consumption it can exert severe and negative consequences on your life for years to come, parti… Read More

Traffic Violations

Speeding, careless or inattentive driving, and driving without insurance are all examples of Delaware traffic violations. They may seem like minor offenses that are an inconvenience, and many people are inclined to pay the fine and move on with their… Read More

Aggressive Driving

In Delaware aggressive driving is one of the more serious traffic violations. The reasoning behind Delaware’s Aggressive Driving Laws, as well as other traffic offense laws, are to ultimately make Delaware roads, highways and interstates safer for… Read More

DMV Point System

The Delaware Department of Motor Vehicles along with the state of Delaware has a driver safety initiative called The Problem Driver Improvement Program. The premise behind the program is to identify problem drivers in Delaware and change their drivin… Read More

Distracted Driving

Inattentive driving in the state of Delaware, as well as in most other states, is a traffic violation. It is illegal to drive recklessly, carelessly and/or negligently since such driving can cause an accident resulting in human injury and even death.… Read More

Driving While Revoked

In Delaware as well as every other state driving is a privilege, not a right. With that privilege comes responsibilities that must be lived up to if you want to maintain your driving privileges. Should you not drive or operate a motor vehicle safely… Read More

Driving Without Insurance

In Delaware there are minimum automobile insurance requirements that all car owners must adhere to. These requirements are for your own good as they protect you, loved ones and other drivers in case of an accident. Oftentimes car insurance can be cos… Read More

Excessive Speeding

On all roads, highways and interstates in Delaware there are posted speed limits. The speed limit for a given area is directly related to the type of road and the population around it. For instance, a 4 lane interstate may have a posted speed limit u… Read More

Moving an Unregistered Vehicle

In Delaware it is illegal to driver or operate a motor vehicle without it being properly tagged and registered. If you are caught driving an untagged or unregistered vehicle in Delaware you may be arrested, face jail time and have your driving privil… Read More

Passing a Stopped School Bus

It is illegal in the state of Delaware to overtake or pass a stopped school bus. If a school bus is stopped and letting off children there are certain traffic laws you must adhere to in order to avoid getting charged with a traffic violation. Passing… Read More

Reckless Driving

In Delaware, reckless driving is defined as any person driving any vehicle with wilful or wanton disregard for the safety of persons or property. Reckless driving is a serious traffic violation that can carry with it harsh and very expensive penaltie… Read More

Stop Signs & Traffic Signals

In Delaware there are many different traffic laws that must be adhered to when operating a motor vehicle. These laws are designed to prevent accidents and keep Delaware roads, highways and interstates safe. Disregarding a traffic signal such as a sto… Read More

Suspended License

In Delaware it is against the law to drive or operate a motor vehicle if your driver’s license is suspended. A license suspension is typically a result of unresolved traffic violations or repeat traffic or moving violations. If the Department of Mo… Read More

Text Messaging While Driving

Sending and receiving text messages while driving is one of the most dangerous driving behaviors you can engage in. Texting while driving is the cause of many traffic accidents in Delaware every year. Texting while driving falls into the category of… Read More

Contact Us

Law Office of Brian J. Chapman

Law Office of
Brian J. Chapman