About Charles E. Stalnaker — General Practice Parkersburg

Charles E. Stalnaker provides general practice Parkersburg, West Virginia legal services from his downtown Market Street office, with a practice that spans family law, divorce, guardianship, and general civil matters for Wood County clients. General practice Parkersburg residents describe Stalnaker as exceptionally honest and direct — an attorney who tells clients what they need to hear rather than what they want to hear, and who brings genuine passion for law to each engagement. His experience as a Guardian ad Litem in family court cases is a specific strength, with multiple reviewers crediting his thorough investigation and child-focused recommendations. For additional Wood County resources, see the Parkersburg attorney directory.

What Clients Say

Reviews consistently highlight Stalnaker’s honesty, personability, and genuine engagement with each case. Clients describe him as someone who takes time on a Friday evening to explain complex legal concepts to out-of-state parties — a level of accessibility that stands out in smaller legal markets. His Guardian ad Litem work draws strong praise from both parents and observers, with reviewers noting his careful fact-finding and thorough court reports. Some reviews mention communication scheduling challenges, but satisfied clients describe outcomes they attribute directly to his command of West Virginia family and civil law.

General Practice Parkersburg — Practice Areas & Services

• Divorce: Stalnaker handles contested and uncontested divorces in Wood County Circuit Court, addressing property division, alimony, and parenting plan disputes for Parkersburg-area clients.
• Child Custody: The firm provides both parental representation and Guardian ad Litem services in Wood County family court custody proceedings, with a reputation for thorough, child-focused investigation.
• Guardianship: Stalnaker handles guardianship matters — including those affecting minor children and incapacitated adults — for Wood County clients navigating West Virginia’s Probate Court processes.
• General Civil Representation: The general practice Parkersburg scope includes civil matters beyond family law, providing Wood County residents with accessible counsel across multiple legal areas.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Guardian ad Litem and when is one appointed in Parkersburg family cases?

A Guardian ad Litem is an attorney appointed by the court to represent the best interests of a child — rather than either parent — in contested custody proceedings. West Virginia courts appoint GALs in cases involving disputed custody, allegations of abuse or neglect, or situations where the child’s interests may differ from those of either parent. The GAL investigates, interviews the child, and submits a report with recommendations to the court. Charles Stalnaker’s experience as a GAL gives him unique insight into how these recommendations are formed and how to present parenting evidence effectively.

How does West Virginia divide property in a Wood County divorce?

West Virginia follows equitable distribution rather than community property rules. Courts divide marital property fairly but not necessarily equally, considering factors including the duration of the marriage, each spouse’s economic circumstances, each party’s contributions, and conduct during the marriage. Fault — including adultery or abuse — can influence property division in West Virginia, distinguishing it from many other equitable distribution states where fault is less relevant to financial outcomes.