The holidays bring celebrations, travel and, unfortunately, an increase in impaired driving incidents. To keep roads safe, law enforcement agencies often set up DUI checkpoints during this time of year. These checkpoints are meant to deter drunk driving, but they can...
Criminal Defense
What are the possible penalties for a first DUI offense?
People often get arrested for driving under the influence (DUI) offenses because they drive poorly. Causing crashes, displaying impaired ability or failing a breath test could all lead to a DUI arrest. Many motorists accused of intoxication at the wheel feel...
Common defenses in West Virginia embezzlement cases
An accusation of embezzlement in West Virginia can upend your work, finances and reputation. You may suddenly face investigators, charges and difficult choices about your future. In this situation, you might benefit from direct information on what the state may try to...
3 potential benefits of negotiating a plea bargain
Most people accused of crimes insist that they are innocent. However, a sizable majority of criminal defendants eventually enter a guilty plea rather than take their case to trial. Frequently, their guilty plea is part of a broader plea bargain negotiated by their...
Clearing your record: Understanding expungement in West Virginia
For most, a criminal record feels like a permanent barrier to employment, housing, education and simple peace of mind. Expungement, a process that allows eligible individuals to erase certain offenses, offers a second chance and an opportunity to move forward without...
When can police officers search a person’s body?
The Fourth Amendment protects people from unreasonable searches and property seizures. There are restrictions on the conduct of law enforcement professionals looking for evidence of criminal activity. Unique rules apply in different search scenarios. Bodily searches,...
Can the police lie to you during an interrogation?
Picture this. You’re sitting in an interrogation room, facing a detective asking questions about a crime. The officer says your friend has already confessed and pinned everything on you or that there is video footage implicating you. Could they be lying? Here is what...
Young adults facing criminal charges should avoid leaning on AI
Nowadays, it isn’t at all uncommon for young adults to turn to artificial intelligence for quick answers to potentially complex questions. While this technology can be helpful in many ways, it is not a substitute for sound legal guidance—especially when criminal...
What happens after an illegal police search?
The state cannot bring charges against individuals without sufficient evidence. Prosecutors generally need proof beyond a reasonable doubt that a defendant violated the law. Evidence ranging from reports explaining the forensic analysis of biological materials to...
How do you invoke your Miranda rights?
Most people have heard Miranda rights being read to people who are being taken into police custody. Even if only on TV. These rights include being able to remain silent and consult with an attorney before questioning resumes. Some people may believe that these rights...