Berkley County Criminal Defense Attorneys
Fierce Defenders in West Virginia
Criminal accusations can be devastating, and without legal guidance, individuals charged with a crime could face the full force of the law. At The Criminal Law Center, we believe in providing clients with a fierce defense when they need it most. Our team of proven trial lawyers investigates each case and works tirelessly to find the most optimal strategy for our clients. We ensure that our clients are prepared for trial and get the emotional support they need during this difficult time.
When you need a fierce advocate, call our Berkley County criminal defense attorneys at (304) 262-9300 or schedule a consultation online.
WV Criminal Justice System
The criminal justice system is a complex network of laws, regulations, and institutions designed to maintain social order, deter crime, and punish those who violate the law. This system is intended to provide direction and order, but there are loopholes that leave the accused vulnerable and victims without justice.
The WV criminal justice system represents a complex, multi-stage process designed to uphold the rule of law and protect society. It unfolds in several key stages, including the investigation, where law enforcement agencies probe alleged criminal activities, and the trial, where guilt or innocence is determined. Each stage is integral to ensuring fairness, accuracy, and justice.
The stages of the criminal process include:
- Arrest: This is usually the first step in the criminal justice process. Law enforcement officers may arrest someone if they have probable cause to believe that person has committed a crime.
- Charging: After an arrest, the case is forwarded to the prosecutor's office. The prosecutor reviews the evidence and decides whether to file charges and what those charges should be.
- Initial Appearance: The accused is brought before a judge for an initial hearing, where they are informed of the charges against them and their rights.
- Plea Bargaining: In some cases, the prosecutor and the defense attorney may negotiate a plea bargain, where the defendant agrees to plead guilty to a lesser charge in exchange for a lighter sentence
- Trial: If a plea bargain is not reached or the defendant pleads not guilty, the case goes to trial. The prosecution and defense present their cases before a judge or jury, who then determine the defendant's guilt or innocence.
- Sentencing: If the defendant is found guilty, the judge determines the appropriate punishment, ranging from fines and probation to imprisonment.
Key players in the criminal justice system
- Law Enforcement: These are the police officers and sheriff's deputies who enforce the law, investigate crimes, and arrest suspects.
- Prosecutors: These attorneys represent the state and prosecute criminal cases.
- Judges: They preside over court proceedings, ensure that trials are conducted fairly, and determine sentences for convicted defendants
Rights of the Accused
The U.S. Constitution and West Virginia laws provide numerous protections for individuals accused of crimes. These include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, and the right to a fair and speedy trial. Additionally, defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
Due process is also a right to ensure fairness in the criminal justice process. It includes the right to be informed of the charges, the right to confront witnesses, and the right to a fair trial.
Cases We Handle
At The Criminal Law Center, we have successfully defended countless clients in Berkley County and the surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights from arrest to trial. With over 65 years of combined experience, our trial attorneys can provide legal strategies tailored to our client’s needs.
Our team handles the following cases:
If you have been accused of a crime, you must contact our team as soon as possible. We can help you navigate the complicated legal process and protect your rights.
Schedule a consultation with our Berkley County criminal defense attorneys today.
Cases We Handle
At The Criminal Law Center, we have successfully defended countless clients in Berkley County and the surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to protecting our clients’ rights from arrest to trial. With over 65 years of combined experience, our trial attorneys can provide legal strategies tailored to our client’s needs.
Our team handles the following cases:
If you have been accused of a crime, you must contact our team as soon as possible. We can help you navigate the complicated legal process and protect your rights.
Schedule a consultation with our Berkley County criminal defense attorneys today.