Shames & Byrum - Chesapeake, VA

Five Decades of Trusted Legal Defense in Chesapeake

Facing criminal allegations or navigating contentious domestic relations disputes can alter your entire life in an instant. In these high-stakes circumstances, having battle-tested courtroom attorneys on your side is indispensable. Established in 1973 by attorneys Steven F. Shames and Robert G. Byrum after graduating from William and Mary Law School, Shames and Byrum has stood as a pillar of legal advocacy in Chesapeake for more than five decades. Operating from Old Greenbrier Road, the firm represents clients across Chesapeake, Virginia Beach, Norfolk, Portsmouth, and Suffolk.

Led today by principal attorney Robert G. Byrum and partner Erica Lee Byrum, the firm combines extensive trial experience with responsive, personalized attention. As seasoned criminal defense lawyers and divorce lawyers, they understand the anxieties confronting their clients and work diligently to achieve favorable outcomes in local courts.

Aggressive Criminal Defense and Traffic Representation

A criminal conviction or serious traffic offense in Virginia can lead to severe penalties, including license suspension, mandatory minimum jail time, and permanent criminal records. If you find yourself in need an urgent criminal defense lawyer or a traffic ticket lawyer, Shames and Byrum provides formidable representation. The firm regularly defends clients charged with:

• Reckless driving charges, speeding infractions, and moving violations under Virginia Code
• Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and felony DUI offenses
• Misdemeanor and felony drug possession, distribution, and manufacturing charges
• Assault, battery, domestic assault allegations, and protective order hearings
• Theft offenses, shoplifting, burglary, and grand larceny charges
• Probation violations and post-conviction motions before Chesapeake judges

Firearm Rights Restoration and Second Amendment Advocacy

Losing your constitutional right to own and carry a firearm following a felony conviction or civil commitment can significantly impact your personal protection and hunting privileges. Attorney Robert G. Byrum is widely recognized throughout Virginia for his deep knowledge in firearms law. The firm guides eligible citizens through the complex statutory petitioning process in Circuit Courts, preparing comprehensive petitions and representing clients before judges to successfully restore firearm rights.

Family Law, Child Custody, and Guardian ad Litem Representation

In addition to defense litigation, Shames and Byrum maintains an active domestic relations practice. Partner Erica Lee Byrum focuses heavily on family law matters in Chesapeake and Norfolk Juvenile and Domestic Relations Courts. When you need to hire a divorce lawyer or resolve sensitive child custody disputes, the firm delivers empathetic, assertive guidance. Attorney Erica Lee Byrum also serves as a certified Guardian ad Litem, bringing valuable, child-centered perspective to contested custody and visitation cases.

Unwavering Courtroom Experience in Hampton Roads

With more than four decades of continuous practice, Robert G. Byrum holds a Distinguished peer review rating from Martindale-Hubbell and the Client Champion award. Shames and Byrum takes immense pride in answering telephone calls promptly, demystifying court proceedings, and crafting practical strategies that address the specific legal goals of every client.

Schedule Your Free Initial Consultation Today

Do not attempt to resolve serious criminal charges or family conflicts without experienced trial counsel. Contact Shames and Byrum at their Chesapeake office today to schedule a confidential, free initial consultation and put more than fifty years of legal skill to work for you.