Ashley Lauren Joseph Smith, Criminal Defense Attorney in Fairmont, West Virginia

Ashley concentrates on criminal defense, estate planning, family law, and general. Each area below outlines the kind of case Ashley handles, typical outcomes to expect, and how the intake process starts.

• Criminal Defense

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• Estate Planning

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• Family Law

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• General

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Ashley's primary office is at 103 Adams Street, Suite 200, Fairmont, WV, 26554. In-person meetings are by appointment; a phone intake usually comes first.

Working with a new criminal defense attorney should feel structured. Here's how the first two conversations with Ashley usually go, from the moment you request a consult to the day representation begins.

Ashley discusses fees during intake so the arrangement fits the matter. Contingency, hourly, and flat-fee options are all common in criminal defense practice — ask which fits.

• How much does it cost to hire Ashley for a criminal defense case?

  Cost depends on the type of matter, the fee model (contingency, flat, hourly), and how contested the case becomes. Ashley walks through the likely range during the consult so there are no surprises.

• Does Ashley offer a free consultation?

  Ashley charges for the initial consult; that fee is credited toward representation if you retain Ashley's office. Some criminal defense attorneys offer free consults — check Ashley's current terms during booking.

• How long do criminal defense cases in West Virginia typically take?

  Simple criminal defense matters can wrap in a few weeks; disputed cases can run 6–18 months from intake to resolution, longer if the matter goes to trial. Ashley gives a realistic estimate for your facts at the consult — vague answers here are a red flag.

• Can Ashley take my case if I'm outside Fairmont?

  Ashley is licensed in West Virginia. Matters governed by West Virginia law are the natural fit. Out-of-state matters are handled case-by-case, sometimes with local co-counsel. Ask during intake — Ashley will tell you if the case is a fit or refer you to someone closer to your court.

• What should I bring to my first meeting with Ashley?

  Bring every document that touches the dispute: contracts, correspondence, police or medical reports, filed pleadings, invoices, photographs, insurance letters. Also bring a written timeline of what happened, in your own words. Ashley will filter what matters — over-preparing at intake is always cheaper than needing a second meeting.

• Is Ashley accepting new criminal defense clients right now?

  Ashley's intake status shifts week to week. Submit the form; the office will confirm availability or refer the matter out.