Morgantown Misdemeanor Lawyer

Morgantown Misdemeanor Attorney

A simple minor misstep can see you facing criminal charges in Morgantown, West Virginia. From a minor scuffle at a bar in the Wharf District to an act of petty theft at a downtown business, misdemeanor charges can disrupt your entire life. Thankfully, you have options. Whether you are a student at WVU or a local who has lived here all your life, a Morgantown misdemeanor lawyer can fight these charges and work to protect your future.

At Crowe Law, LLC, we have been assisting clients in the greater Morgantown area for years. Our firm can fight against a wide range of criminal charges, including those defined as misdemeanors. It’s important to remember that a misdemeanor is not a simple slap on the wrist; it can negatively affect your entire future. It can keep you from pursuing certain employment opportunities or even your studies at WVU.

Common Misdemeanor Charges in Morgantown

Each year, 72.79% of all criminal cases filed in West Virginia are for misdemeanor charges. To better understand your legal options, it is a good idea to learn more about the charges you are facing. The most common misdemeanor charges in Morgantown include the following:

• Petty theft. This crime, also known as shoplifting in West Virginia, involves the illegal taking of another’s property with the intent of depriving them of said item in a permanent manner. The severity of the charge and the penalties you may face if convicted will depend on the value of the stolen item.
• Disorderly conduct. These charges may occur if an individual is accused of engaging in disruptive or unruly behavior, such as in an incident outside a High Street bar, which disturbs the peace or order of the area.
• Public intoxication. This crime, whether an individual is intoxicated due to drugs or alcohol, occurs when an individual does so in a public space. This is considered a misdemeanor offense in Morgantown, and it is important that you seek legal counsel and representation in these cases.
• Trespassing. This charge can arise if an individual is allegedly guilty of entering the property of another without the consent or permission of the property owner. This might not seem like a serious charge, but it is vital to retain legal counsel to mitigate any possible penalties.
• Simple assault. This crime can happen if an individual allegedly and intentionally causes bodily or physical harm to another. Simple assault charges can also apply if the act causes the victim to be in fear of physical or bodily harm. Even in a case where no actual physical harm is sustained by the victim, a misdemeanor charge can still be applied.
• Domestic violence. In West Virginia, 39.4% of women experience some kind of domestic violence. These charges can arise when an individual has assaulted, harassed, stalked, or threatened a member of their family or someone living in their shared household with violence. This is common between married couples, partners, children and parents, or grandparents and children.
• Possession of marijuana. Some states in America have legalized the use of recreational marijuana; West Virginia is not one of them. If you are found to be in possession of small amounts of marijuana, you can face misdemeanor charges, and a defense attorney should be retained.

Penalties for Morgantown Misdemeanors

Depending on the nature and severity of your alleged misdemeanor crime, there are several penalties you may face. This is why it is vital that you retain the counsel and representation of a misdemeanor criminal defense attorney, as they can work to mitigate these potential penalties. If you are successfully convicted of a misdemeanor in Morgantown, you may face the following consequences:

• Fines. When you are convicted of a misdemeanor offense in West Virginia, you can face large financial fines, ranging anywhere from a few hundred dollars to several thousand, depending on the nature and severity of the alleged crime.
• Probation. You may be placed on probation in some cases, which will require you to follow certain codes and conditions placed on you by the courts, like attending therapy or counseling, or doing community service work.
• Criminal record. Suffering a misdemeanor conviction can result in a criminal record, which can negatively impact your future employment or housing opportunities.
• Jail time. Depending on the nature and severity of your offense, you could face jail time, served in either a county or regional jail.

FAQs

What Are Some Common Defenses Against a Misdemeanor Charge?

Depending on the nature and circumstances of your alleged crime, your attorney can implement several defenses in your case. These can include:

• You lacked the intent to commit the crime.
• You acted in self-defense or in the defense of others.
• You were the victim of mistaken identity.
• Some or all of the evidence may be invalid.

Is Driving Under the Influence a Misdemeanor in WV?

In most cases, yes, driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol is considered a misdemeanor crime in West Virginia. However, in some cases, it can be upgraded to a felony. In either situation, hiring an attorney is in your interest, as they can preserve your rights and investigate the situation.

What Are the Costs Involved When Hiring a Lawyer?

How much a lawyer might cost to represent you against a misdemeanor charge can vary widely. There are many variables involved in these cases, which can affect the costs involved. Some of these include the complexity and duration of your case, along with the skill and experience of your attorney.

What Are My Rights in a Criminal Case in WV?

If you find yourself arrested in West Virginia for a criminal charge, it is important to remember that you have rights. These include the right to remain silent and the right to retain a lawyer. It is wise to avoid speaking with the arresting officers until your attorney is present. However, you should politely cooperate with the arrest procedure itself, as this can help your case.

Consult an Experienced Misdemeanor Defense Lawyer Today

If you or a loved one has been charged with a misdemeanor in Morgantown, do not hesitate to contact a defense lawyer. At Crowe Law, LLC, we can fight these charges and protect your freedoms. Contact our offices today to schedule your consultation with our team.