CRIMINAL DEFENSE

Things to think about when facing prosecution:

• Have you or a loved one been arrested or contacted by law enforcement investigating a crime?

  Being arrested (for the first or fourteenth time) is an experience that no one enjoys. It places you on edge. Your heart may start racing.  You may say things you do not mean (and later do not even remember).  You may hear things incorrectly.  Finding out that you are being investigated for a crime can be an unnerving experience. Having competent counsel to advise you during such a difficult time is most important.

• Have you retained counsel? 

  If you have not, you want to retain counsel as soon as possible.  What should you look for in a lawyer, you may ask.  You want to know the lawyer’s reputation and experience.  You want to understand whether the lawyer has a reputation with the local prosecutor or law enforcement officials.  You want to know whether the lawyer has a game plan for defense of your case.  Some people will say that they “always” do the same thing in every case.  Paul believes that each case is unique and may require a different tool.  Not all cases require a full-court press.  Using the wrong defense can create more problems or make a situation worse for a client.  In order to find the appropriate defense, Paul spends time with his clients to determine the best defense for the client.  

• Have you spoken with a lawyer?

  If you have not, why not? Call one. Someone once said, “Lawyers love the sound of their own voices.” It’s true. Do not hesitate to call Paul to discuss your case and whether you wish to retain his services. When you call, it is important that you have a copy of the Criminal Complaint or Indictment with you so that Paul has as much information as possible to assist in the consultation.

• Have you spoken with law enforcement already? 

  If so, was your conversation recorded?  Were you under arrest at the time? Had you been read your rights (Mirandized as they say)?  Usually the best course of action is to not engage with law enforcement without counsel.  If you already have, that is not the end of the analysis.  Knowing the facts and circumstances of the conversation is important for your lawyer to best represent you.

• Are there common criminal charges in West Virginia?

  See the attached link for common charges with links to the applicable code sections. Paul is ready to defend you for any of the listed charges or anything else that is alleged.

• Do you know the penalty for the crime you are charged with?

  Ever look up your symptoms on the internet and try to self-diagnose? Sometimes people do this with their criminal cases as well.  It’s ok:  Googling has become a verb for a reason.  So now that you have looked up the charge, what is the potential jail/prison sentence you are facing?  Do you understand how parole works?  What about probation?  If convicted, will you have to register with the State, and if so for how long?  If you have these types of questions, call a lawyer to get a better understanding of your case.  As a former Circuit Court Judge, Paul understands the process of sentencing and issues that judges consider.  Having someone with this experience could be crucial to the defense of your case. 

• How much is it going to cost?

  Your first consultation with Paul is free.  He will advise you as to the course of action he recommends and provide you with a proposed fee agreement.