Sometimes a Pennsylvania resident will end up facing drug-related charges after a nearly random encounter with police, such as a traffic stop. The police may pull over the person for a minor traffic infraction and, while talking to the person, see drug paraphernalia...
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In Challenging Times
Criminal Defense
5 criminal defense strategies that you might be able to use
When you’re charged with a criminal offense, it can feel like the world is against you. The prosecution might make bold statements about its ability to convict you, and the penalties that are threatened can leave you fearful of the future. But hope isn’t lost. After...
Four reasons why you shouldn’t talk to the police
A lot of criminal convictions are obtained on the very words spoken by an accused individual, especially when interacting with the police. These admissions are powerful for the prosecution in court, and they’re extremely hard, if not impossible, for you to walk back....
What are Miranda rights and why are they so important?
We’ve all seen crime shows where the police, as they are arresting a suspect, read them their rights. It is often a high drama moment, and many people have heard the phrases so many times that they know them by heart. What movies and television shows are reenacting is...
When is an ignition interlock required?
A DUI conviction can seriously disrupt many things in your life and carries major penalties. In addition to the high fines, loss of driving privileges and potential jail time, you may be required to use an ignition interlock device, which is a device installed in your...
Understanding “clean slate” and who is eligible in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, being accused of a crime and subsequently arrested is challenging in many, many ways. If there is a conviction, there will be concerns not just about the penalties, but the long-term consequences even after the sentence is completed. The person might...
Can the “two-hour rule” play a role in my DUI defense?
Pennsylvania drivers who are arrested and face the prospect of a conviction for driving under the influence might understand the basics about the charges. That includes the traffic stop itself, field sobriety tests, the breathalyzer and blood-alcohol concentration....
Expunging a criminal record in Pennsylvania
It should come as no surprise to most Pennsylvania residents that a criminal record can have many ramifications. One bad night or one mistake can result in a criminal conviction, and even one misdemeanor charge on a record can have permanent consequences in almost all...
Domestic violence charges can derail one’s career, life
A resident of Lancaster County might not realize how easy it is to get charged with assault, battery or other crimes related to domestic violence. In some cases, a person might make a serious mistake in the heat of a family squabble or a tense situation with one’s ex....
What can I expect during the criminal trial process?
The criminal trial process can be confusing for many in Lancaster County, some of whom have never been charged with a crime before. After you are charged, an arraignment is conducted, discovery has been completed, and all preliminary hearings and pre-trial motions...