Criminal Defense Lawyer Charleston WV & Surrounding Counties
Being charged with a crime is one of the most frightening experiences a person can face. Your freedom, your reputation, your job, and your family are all at stake. The criminal justice system moves fast, and the decisions made in the earliest hours and days after an arrest can shape the entire outcome of your case. If you or someone you love has been arrested or is under investigation in Charleston, anywhere in Kanawha County, or in the surrounding communities of Putnam, Boone, Lincoln, Clay, Raleigh, or Fayette County, do not wait and do not face this alone. The attorneys at Stroebel & Stroebel, PLLC are ready to step in immediately, protect your rights, and fight for the best possible outcome.
Call us at 304-346-0197 or send us a message anytime. We respond promptly.
Your Constitutional Rights in a Criminal Case
The United States Constitution and the West Virginia Constitution guarantee you fundamental rights when you are accused of a crime. These include:
- The right to remain silent. You are not required to answer questions from police or prosecutors. Anything you say can and will be used against you.
- The right to an attorney. You have the right to have a lawyer present during questioning and at every critical stage of your case.
- The right to be free from unreasonable searches and seizures. Evidence obtained illegally may be suppressed and kept out of court.
- The right to a fair trial. The government must prove every element of the charge against you beyond a reasonable doubt.
- The right to confront witnesses and challenge the evidence presented against you.
These rights exist on paper — but they only protect you if you assert them. The moment you are arrested or believe you are under investigation, stop talking to law enforcement and call an attorney.
Criminal Cases We Handle Across Central and Southern West Virginia
Stroebel & Stroebel, PLLC represents individuals charged with a wide range of criminal offenses throughout Charleston, Kanawha County, and the surrounding region, including:
- DUI / DWI — first offense, second offense, felony DUI, and related charges
- Drug charges — possession, possession with intent to deliver, and drug trafficking
- Assault and battery — simple assault, aggravated assault, and malicious wounding
- Domestic violence and protective order violations
- Theft and property crimes — petit larceny, grand larceny, burglary, and destruction of property
- Weapons charges — unlawful possession, carrying without a license, and related offenses
- White collar crimes — fraud, embezzlement, and forgery
- Disorderly conduct, trespassing, and misdemeanor offenses
- Expungements — clearing eligible offenses from your record
How the Criminal Court System Works in Kanawha County and Surrounding Areas
Understanding where your case will be heard is an important first step. In West Virginia, criminal cases are handled at different levels depending on the severity of the charge:
- Municipal Court handles minor city ordinance violations and some low-level misdemeanors within incorporated cities and towns throughout the region.
- Magistrate Court handles misdemeanor criminal charges, sets bail in felony cases, and conducts preliminary hearings. Each county — including Kanawha, Putnam, Boone, Lincoln, Clay, Raleigh, and Fayette — has its own Magistrate Court.
- Circuit Court handles felony charges and misdemeanor cases appealed from Magistrate Court. This is where jury trials take place. Each county has its own Circuit Court, and we appear in courts throughout the region.
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney who knows the local prosecutors, judges, and procedures in each county can make a meaningful difference in your outcome. Our firm is based in Charleston and practices regularly throughout the courts of central and southern West Virginia.
Counties We Serve
Stroebel & Stroebel, PLLC represents clients facing criminal charges in courts throughout the following West Virginia counties:
- Kanawha County — including Charleston, South Charleston, Dunbar, St. Albans, and surrounding communities
- Putnam County — including Hurricane, Winfield, Teays Valley, and Scott Depot
- Boone County — including Madison and surrounding areas
- Lincoln County — including Hamlin and surrounding areas
- Clay County — including Clay and surrounding areas
- Raleigh County — including Beckley and surrounding communities
- Fayette County — including Fayetteville, Oak Hill, and surrounding communities
- And more — call our office to see if we routinely practice in your area
If you are unsure whether we practice in your county, call us. In most cases, we can help — or point you in the right direction if we cannot.
What Stroebel & Stroebel Does in Criminal Defense Cases
Paul E. Stroebel and Paul M. Stroebel approach every criminal defense case with the same principle: the government has to earn a conviction. We do not assume guilt, and we do not pressure clients into accepting outcomes that are not in their best interest.
When you hire us, we:
- Review the evidence immediately — police reports, body camera footage, witness statements, lab results, and anything else the prosecution intends to use against you
- Challenge unlawful searches and seizures and file motions to suppress evidence obtained in violation of your constitutional rights
- Investigate the facts independently, including interviewing witnesses and identifying weaknesses in the government’s case
- Negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges or alternative sentencing when that serves your interests
- Prepare aggressively for trial and defend you before a judge or jury when fighting the charges is the right path
- Advise you fully at every stage so you understand your options and can make informed decisions about your case
Criminal defense cases are handled on a retainer basis. We will discuss fees clearly and upfront during your consultation so there are no surprises.
Why the Outcome of Your Case Matters Beyond the Courtroom
A criminal conviction — even for a misdemeanor — can affect far more than just your sentence. A conviction on your record can impact your ability to find employment, obtain housing, keep a professional license, own a firearm, or qualify for financial aid. If you are not a U.S. citizen, a conviction can also have serious immigration consequences. We take every case seriously because we understand what is truly at stake for our clients.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I talk to the police before hiring an attorney?
No. You have the right to remain silent, and you should exercise it. Politely decline to answer questions and ask to speak with an attorney immediately. Even innocent people can inadvertently say things that are later used against them. Call us before you speak with law enforcement.
What is the difference between a misdemeanor and a felony in West Virginia?
Misdemeanors are less serious offenses generally punishable by up to one year in county jail. Felonies are more serious crimes punishable by more than one year in a state correctional facility. The distinction matters for sentencing, but also for the long-term consequences on your record.
Can I get a criminal charge expunged in West Virginia?
West Virginia law allows expungement of certain charges and convictions, including some misdemeanors and cases that were dismissed or resulted in acquittal. Eligibility depends on the offense, your criminal history, and how much time has passed. We can evaluate whether you qualify.
What happens at a preliminary hearing?
A preliminary hearing is held in Magistrate Court for felony charges. The judge determines whether there is probable cause to believe a crime was committed and that you committed it. This is an important early opportunity to challenge the government’s evidence, and having an attorney present is critical.
Do you handle cases outside of Charleston?
Yes. While our office is located in Charleston, we represent clients in courts throughout Kanawha County and the surrounding counties of Putnam, Boone, Lincoln, Clay, Raleigh, and Fayette. If you have been charged with a crime anywhere in central or southern West Virginia, call us to discuss your case.
How much does a criminal defense attorney cost?
We handle criminal defense cases on a retainer basis. Fees vary depending on the nature and complexity of the charges. We will discuss costs openly during your initial consultation so you know exactly what to expect.
Contact Stroebel & Stroebel, PLLC
A criminal charge does not have to define your future. The right attorney, acting quickly and strategically, can make all the difference. If you have been arrested or charged with a crime in Charleston, Kanawha County, or anywhere in central or southern West Virginia, contact Stroebel & Stroebel, PLLC today.
Call us at 304-346-0197 or send us a message anytime — we respond promptly.
Stroebel & Stroebel, PLLC
405 Capitol Street, Suite 102
Charleston, WV 25301
The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice or create an attorney-client relationship.