People in West Virginia who find themselves accused of serious crimes can often feel like they are at a big disadvantage when it comes to defending themselves. While the road may be challenging at times, it is important for defendants to remain assured that they do...
Wheeling Criminal Law Blog
The history of Miranda rights
If you are like most people in West Virginia, you have watched multiple television shows or movies in which a person has been stopped by a law enforcement officer and questioned. Before any questions are asked, however, the person playing the officer first recites the...
Robbery is a wobbler charge
As is the case in many states, for an individual to face the criminal charge of robbery in West Virginia, typically a victim is present. When no person is present, the offense is technically a burglary. However, several factors determine whether the crime is a felony...
To beat a criminal charge, staying silent may be your best bet
If police officers suspect you have committed a crime, you can expect them to use a variety of techniques to elicit information from you. As you probably know, if you confess to a crime or otherwise incriminate yourself, avoiding a criminal conviction may become...
What is illegal search and seizure?
If you are under arrest for drug charges in West Virginia, it is important you understand your rights. A good defense attorney will examine facts around search and seizure to see if legal authorities violated your protections under the Fourth amendment.According to...
How many teens drink and drive?
Drunk driving charges can be tough for anyone to deal with, but some people have an especially hard time after they are pulled over for driving under the influence. For example, those who are under the age of 21 may face tough penalties and they may also face...
Authorities required to have warrant before pinging a cellphone
In a majority of crime shows, there are scenes depicting an onslaught of local authorities working to track down criminals by pinging their cell phone location. However, even though this has been true in the past, a recent change may now require authorities to do a...
What is the problem with forensic testing?
When a crime occurs, evidence is collected and ran through a series of forensic testing methods in hopes of linking a suspect to a case. The results of the testing are then presented to the judge and jury presiding over the case in hopes of providing a better picture...
Traffic stops and Fourth Amendment rights
As you are driving in or out of Wheeling, you may be unfortunate enough to catch the red and blue lights in your rearview mirror. Having a cop pull you over can spark immediate dread, even when you have nothing to feel inherently guilty about.When you are the subject...
Criminal justice reform activities in West Virginia
Residents in West Virginia may be aware of the First Step Act, a recent federal step toward criminal justice reform. However, it is also important to be aware of the many actions currently underway in the state of West Virginia specifically that are aiming to improve...