Call Today: 304-885-4265

Bottner & Associates, Attorneys at Law
304-885-4265

The People’s Lawyers In West Virginia

Facing A Criminal Accusation Can Be Frightening And Confusing

The legal system is complex and can present different challenges and obstacles depending on your situation. At Bottner & Associates, Attorneys at Law, our attorneys have a combined three decades of experience defending clients accused of crimes. Our diverse criminal defense practice assists individuals facing charges in state or federal court.

Aggressive And Empathetic Representation You Can Count On

If you have been accused of a crime, we want to help you understand your options. Our attorneys will read the criminal complaint against you to find out the state’s position, listen to your side of the story and create a strategy to pursue a reasonable resolution. Our priority is your reputation, future and well-being.

Our criminal defense attorneys are prepared to handle a wide range of felony and misdemeanor cases, including:

If you are facing drug charges, have been accused of committing a white collar crime, or need a criminal law attorney for any reason, you will want to take immediate action to ensure that your rights are protected.

Serious Help For Serious Cases

If you are facing charges for violent or property crimes, the consequences can have a life-long impact. Our lawyers are skilled in all aspects of criminal defense. At Bottner & Associates, Attorneys at Law, we take pride in championing your rights and liberties, and we work hard to ensure that our clients understand what their options are. No matter your situation, we’ll know how to move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions: West Virginia Criminal Charges

If you are facing criminal charges in West Virginia, your future is at risk. You need accurate information about your rights and the legal process as quickly as possible. Here, our attorneys speak to some of the most common concerns you may have about your situation.

What steps should I take immediately after law enforcement charges me with a crime in West Virginia?

Remain silent and avoid giving statements to the police since anything you say can be used against you. Provide your name and basic identifying information, but you may decline to answer questions about the incident. You should also request legal counsel as soon as possible so your attorney can protect your rights during questioning and early court proceedings.

It is also wise to avoid discussing the case with friends, family or on social media because those statements may be obtained by prosecutors. Taking these steps can help prevent unintentional harm to your defense.

How does a felony offense differ from a misdemeanor in West Virginia?

A felony carries the possibility of more than one year in state prison, while a misdemeanor carries a maximum sentence of one year in a regional jail. Felonies often involve conduct that the legislature considers more serious, such as violent offenses or crimes involving significant harm.

Felony convictions can also trigger enhanced penalties for future offenses. Misdemeanors still carry meaningful consequences, including fines, probation and potential jail time. Understanding the distinction helps you evaluate the severity of the charge and the potential impact on your life.

What potential long-term consequences can I face after a criminal conviction in West Virginia?

A conviction can create lasting effects that extend beyond the court sentence. These consequences vary by offense but often include barriers that affect daily life.

Common long-term impacts include:

  • Loss of firearm rights: Certain felony convictions and domestic violence offenses can permanently restrict your ability to possess firearms.
  • Employment challenges: Many employers conduct background checks, and a conviction may limit opportunities in fields that require trust or professional oversight.
  • Professional licensing issues: Licensing boards for fields such as nursing, education and real estate may deny, suspend or revoke credentials after a conviction.
  • Housing difficulties: Landlords may refuse applications based on criminal history, especially for offenses involving violence or controlled substances.
  • Immigration consequences: Noncitizens may face removal proceedings or denial of future immigration benefits after certain convictions.

These potentially harsh consequences can influence your long-term stability. Understanding your legal position early allows you to make informed decisions about your defense strategy.

Personalized Attention And Dedicated Representation

Don’t agree to a plea deal without consulting a lawyer. Contact us today to get personalized service from our aggressive criminal defense team. We will help protect your rights and work diligently to ensure that you are treated fairly under the law. When your future and reputation are at stake, don’t be rash: call The Stache.

Your future matters to us. We will provide you with accurate, frank information about your options so we can formulate a strategy and make decisions in your best interest. Call our office at 304-885-4265 to set up a consultation. Located in Charles Town, we serve individuals throughout Jefferson, Berkeley and Morgan counties in West Virginia.