VIRGINIA CRIMINAL APPEALS
Taite has dedicated his entire career to defending clients in the highest stakes criminal cases. In a state where trials are rare and victories even rarer, he has successfully helped thousands of clients stand up to the government. His extensive jury trial experience includes securing hard fought not guilty verdicts in cases of murder, rape, robbery, abduction, firearm offenses, malicious wounding, burglary, larceny, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, sexual battery, and more.
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With 18 years of nearly daily courtroom experience, Taite has defended clients against virtually every type of criminal charge imaginable. He prides himself on guiding each client through the complexities of the legal system, tailoring his defense strategy to achieve the best possible outcome for their unique situation.
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A Virginia Beach native, Taite graduated from First Colonial High School before earning his undergraduate degree from the University of Virginia and his law degree from the University of Richmond School of Law. He lives in Virginia Beach with his wife and four children.
OUR APPROACH
At the heart of our practice is a commitment to meticulous preparation and teamwork. We approach every appeal with fresh eyes, carefully reviewing every aspect of the case—down to the smallest detail in the trial record. By working together on each appeal, we combine our perspectives and experiences to spot the strongest issues and develop the most effective strategies. Our clients can expect clear communication throughout the process, with regular updates and honest assessments at every stage. We don’t just focus on winning cases; we focus on doing the work the right way, with integrity and precision, so that every client knows their case is in the best possible hands.
Bassel earned his B.A. from the University of Hawaii in 2005 and his J.D. from Washington and Lee University School of Law in 2008. After law school, he served as a magistrate, where he conducted bond hearings and evaluated probable cause for the issuance of search and arrest warrants.
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For more than a decade, Bassel has dedicated his practice to defending clients in serious criminal cases. Recognized by Super Lawyers and CoVA Biz Magazine, his true pride lies in the victories he's secured for his clients. He has successfully defended high-profile cases, including getting all charges dropped against an Uber driver falsely accused of rape, a case that garnered national media attention.
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In 2021, Bassel spearheaded a successful campaign in city council to raise salaries for public defenders in Virginia Beach, advocating for better compensation for those protecting the rights of the accused. As co-founder of Westendorf & Khalaf, Bassel is committed to providing honest, effective, and aggressive representation. Bassel lives in Virginia Beach with his wife and their three children.