Criminal Defense Law

Criminal Defense Law Pittsburgh, PA

Criminal Defense LawThe proliferation of legal shows on television may have given the average person the perception that he or she has a good basic knowledge of criminal law. Not so! If you have been arrested and charged with a crime, you need an experienced criminal attorney to prepare your defense. Experience may make a major difference in the outcome of your case.

In Pennsylvania, crimes are divided into felonies (more serious violations) and misdemeanors. Each classification has three subclasses. There are also crimes called summary offenses. The category your crime falls in can determine the penalty; the offense often determines the category. For example, aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, is a felony one offense, and the penalty can be up to twenty years in prison. Drug trafficking also comes under this classification. At the other extreme, disorderly conduct, a summary offense, brings up to ninety days in jail.

Criminal cases are handled by a prosecutor who will present the evidence in the case. It is the job of the defense attorney to scrupulously analyze and, if possible, challenge the evidence and present other existing data that may exist in your favor. An attorney may often employ skilled investigators who will work in your behalf. Your attorney will be familiar with the court system and procedures as well as have knowledge of the personalities of local judges. Every court case involves the filing of forms with time limits. These are best handled by a professional.

Just some of the cases in which criminal charges may arise are: drug possession and trafficking, DUI, domestic assault, shoplifting, theft, receiving stolen property, fraud, bad check writing, robbery, driving charges, stalking.

DISCLAIMER: The materials contained on this web site are provided for information only and do not constitute legal advice. Contact with this web site does not establish an attorney-client relationship.