About Zerbe & Pence — Criminal Defense Charleston West Virginia
Criminal defense Charleston residents and nearby Kanawha County clients turn to Zerbe & Pence, PLLC at 205 Capitol Street for DUI defense, traffic matters, and criminal representation. Attorney David Pence leads the firm’s criminal practice, which also handles Social Security Disability claims through caseworker Beverly and staff member Christina Green. The firm represents clients in Charleston Municipal Court, Kanawha County Magistrate Court, and Circuit Court. Clients searching for Charleston criminal counsel find David Pence’s flat-fee transparency and responsiveness distinctive.
David Pence’s practice combines criminal defense with disability advocacy, an uncommon pairing that serves clients needing both types of help after serious life events. The firm’s flat-fee pricing on many matters, including traffic defense and DUI, gives clients cost certainty upfront. Beverly’s disability caseload has produced consistent wins for clients who initially faced SSA denials. The office is in downtown Charleston, steps from the Kanawha County Courthouse.
What Clients Say
Reviewers consistently describe David Pence as professional, helpful, and fair on fees. Clients facing traffic citations describe cases kept off records through his negotiation. DUI clients report favorable outcomes, including cases where Pence arrived at Charleston Municipal Court and checked clients in before they arrived. Disability clients specifically praise Beverly’s patience and communication throughout multi-year appeals. Christina Green receives repeat mentions for her helpfulness keeping cases moving.
Criminal Defense Charleston — Practice Areas & Services
- DUI defense in Charleston Municipal and Kanawha County courts
- Traffic violations and moving violation defense
- Misdemeanor and felony criminal defense
- Social Security Disability Insurance claims
- SSI applications and appeals
- Flat-fee pricing on many routine matters
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens after a DUI arrest in Charleston, WV?
West Virginia DUI arrests trigger both criminal charges and an administrative license revocation through the DMV. You have 30 days to request an administrative hearing. Criminal cases proceed in Charleston Municipal Court (city streets) or Kanawha County Magistrate Court. First-offense DUI carries potential jail time, fines, and license consequences.
How much does traffic ticket defense cost in Charleston?
Most traffic ticket representation in Charleston runs $250 to $750 flat fee, depending on the violation. An attorney often negotiates reduction to a non-moving violation with no points, saving clients more in insurance premiums than the attorney fee over subsequent years.
How does West Virginia SSDI work?
Initial SSDI applications go through the Social Security Administration with most denied at first review. Reconsideration follows denial, then a hearing before an Administrative Law Judge. West Virginia applicants have hearings at the Charleston OHO or via video, with typical total timelines of 24 to 36 months from application to hearing decision.
Quick Facts: Criminal Defense in Charleston, West Virginia
- WV DUI Law: 0.08% BAC threshold; administrative revocation via W. Va. Code 17C-5A — W. Va. Code 17C-5A
- WV Points System: 12 points in 24 months triggers license suspension — West Virginia DMV
- Kanawha County Magistrate Court: Traffic and misdemeanor matters filed at 401 Virginia Street E, Charleston — WV Judiciary
Related Guide: Criminal Defense Attorneys — ReachAttorneys


