Smith Mountain Lake Attorney for Lake-Area Residents and Visitors
Smith Mountain Lake stretches across three counties – Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania – so the court that hears a lake-area case depends on which shoreline it happened on. Straw Law Firm, PLLC represents full-time residents, weekend homeowners and summer visitors in Moneta, Huddleston, Hardy and Westlake from our office in Forest.
Legal Issues Common Around the Lake
Boating Under the Influence and Water-Related Charges
Virginia treats operating a boat while impaired very seriously, and a BUI charge carries penalties similar to a DUI. Our criminal and traffic defense practice also handles DUI and reckless driving charges from the winding roads leading to the lake, such as Route 122 and Route 24.
Boating, Watercraft and Road Accidents
Collisions between boats and personal watercraft, dock injuries and crashes on narrow lake roads can cause serious harm. Our personal injury and auto accident practices help injured people pursue compensation from those responsible and their insurers.
Estate Planning for Lake Homes
Lake property is often a family’s most cherished asset and sometimes a second home. A properly drafted will, trust or power of attorney can help the lake house pass smoothly to the next generation and avoid disputes among heirs. Owners who live in another state should plan with Virginia law in mind, since Virginia real estate is generally handled under Virginia law.
Family Law for Lake Residents
When couples separate, deciding who keeps the lake home – and how it is valued – can be one of the hardest issues. Our divorce and family law practice helps clients through property division, custody and support.
Which Court Handles a Smith Mountain Lake Case?
- Bedford County shoreline (Moneta, Huddleston, Bedford side): Bedford County courts in the Town of Bedford
- Franklin County shoreline (Hardy, Westlake area): Franklin County courts in Rocky Mount
- Pittsylvania County shoreline: Pittsylvania County courts in Chatham
Nearby Communities
We also serve Bedford, Forest, Roanoke and Lynchburg. See every community we serve.
To talk with Attorney Gary L. Straw, call (434) 616-2760 or request a consultation online.
Smith Mountain Lake Legal Questions
What counties border Smith Mountain Lake?
Smith Mountain Lake is bordered by Bedford, Franklin and Pittsylvania counties. The county where an incident occurred usually determines which court hears the case.
Is boating under the influence a crime in Virginia?
Yes. Operating a boat while impaired is a criminal offense in Virginia, with penalties that can include fines, jail time and a ban on operating watercraft. It should be taken as seriously as a DUI.
I live out of state but own a lake home. Do I need a Virginia estate plan?
It is wise to have your plan reviewed for Virginia real estate. Without planning, heirs may face an additional probate process in Virginia. A trust or properly drafted Virginia documents can simplify the transfer.
Who pays for injuries in a boating accident?
Depending on the facts, the boat operator, owner, a rental company or their insurers may be responsible. Because Virginia’s contributory negligence rule can bar recovery if you were even slightly at fault, it helps to get advice early.
Can you help visitors who were charged while vacationing at the lake?
Yes. We represent visitors charged with traffic, boating or misdemeanor offenses and can explain whether your case may be resolved with fewer trips back to Virginia. Call (434) 616-2760 to discuss your case.