Criminal Laws

Understanding Criminal Laws in Morgantown and West Virginia

A criminal charge can turn your world upside down. You may face numerous challenges as you navigate the criminal justice process. Many people accused of crimes feel confused about their rights and struggle to understand the law. When you’re facing substantial fines or significant jail time, you don’t have to face it alone. Mountaineer Criminal Law Group will stand by your side when your future is on the line. With over 25 years of combined practice, we have extensive experience handling criminal cases. Our legal team has the skills, knowledge, and experience to challenge legal obstacles and is prepared to take on any case and work toward a resolution.

The Process

Contact Mountaineer Criminal Law Group immediately if the police arrest you or pull you over. Our attorneys can act quickly to provide instant guidance and begin protecting your rights. Having a Morgantown criminal lawyer by your side ensures that the legal proceedings move forward smoothly. A skilled attorney has the training and experience, pays close attention to details, and will work diligently to resolve your case in the most favorable way possible.

Key Facts About West Virginia Criminal Law

Here are the rights you can exercise when police question you:

• You have the right to remain silent.
• You can exercise your right to have a Morgantown DUI attorney present with you during questioning sessions.
• Even if you cannot afford to pay an attorney, you may request that one be appointed to your case to help resolve the issues as quickly as possible.

These are known as Miranda rights, which police typically read when you are taken into custody.

We recommend not saying anything beyond providing basic information such as your name and address. Remember, you have the right to remain silent—use that right and wait until your attorney is present to answer questions on your behalf.

After your arrest, your case will proceed to indictment. The judge may ask you to enter a plea. A guilty plea means you admit to committing the crime and accept the punishment or sentence. A not guilty plea means you deny the crime in question, and the judge may set a trial date.

The good news is that you can have a Morgantown DUI attorney by your side during these proceedings to speak on your behalf. This gives you confidence to face the legal process. The lawyer you hire will listen to all the facts related to your case and advise you on whether you should plead guilty or not guilty. They will fight for you wholeheartedly and do their best to reduce prison time or, ideally, have your case dismissed entirely. Having an experienced legal advocate from Monongalia County by your side is invaluable.If you, a friend, or a family member has been charged with a crime, don’t wait to contact a Morgantown criminal lawyer at Mountaineer Criminal Law Group. Call 412.387.6901 today to schedule a consultation and get the experienced legal guidance you need to pursue the best possible outcome for your case.