Criminal Defense in West Virginia

West Virginia ( WV)

Average: $6,000

Last Updated: Mar 2026

Low Estimate

$1,500

Simple / Uncontested Cases

Average Cost

                        $6,000                    
Typical
                        Criminal Defense Case
                    

High Estimate

$30,000

Complex / Contested Cases

Cost Component	Low	Average	High
Attorney Hourly Rate	$150/hr	$195/hr	$350/hr
Total Cost Estimate	$1,500	$6,000	$30,000
Court Filing Fee	$200

What to Know About Criminal Defense Costs in West Virginia

West Virginia classifies felonies and misdemeanors with specific penalty ranges. Defense costs $1,500-$4,000 for misdemeanors to $6,000-$30,000 for felonies. West Virginia has implemented drug court programs to address the opioid crisis. The state has some of the highest per capita opioid-related prosecution rates nationally.

Sources: State criminal code, Clio Legal Trends 2025, State Bar Association (WV)