Criminal Defense

The police are always on the watch for drunk drivers – but they cannot lawfully stop any vehicle they want just to look for impaired drivers. Officers have to be able to articulate specific facts that give them “reasonable suspicion” that the driver is not sober...

Intent in an assault case can make or break your defense, making it essential to understand this element. Courts examine a person’s actions and the surrounding circumstances to determine whether the required mental state existed. Learning more about intent in assault...

Motorists in Pennsylvania may face driving under the influence (DUI) charges due to traffic stops or collisions. Those accused of DUI offenses often want to avoid convictions whenever possible to retain their driving licenses, ensure they can pass background checks...

Some charges are always misdemeanors or felonies. Murder is a felony offense, while possession of small amounts of marijuana is usually a misdemeanor. Other crimes are technically “wobbler” offenses.  Prosecutors can pursue either felony or misdemeanor charges against...

If the police are investigating you for alleged criminal activity, an officer may want to enter your house and perform a search or speak with you about the investigation. Some people believe they are legally obligated to let the police inside simply because they are...

If you are facing charges for assault, you may believe that you did nothing wrong. This does not mean that there was no altercation between you and the other party. You simply believe that your role in that altercation was justified. In a situation like this, people...

If a person is arrested for illegal drug possession, they could face state and federal criminal charges. A court may consider several factors before convicting a defendant for illegal drug possession.  One of the biggest factors a court may consider is a drug’s...

Stalking is a serious criminal offense that can have long-lasting effects on both the victim and the perpetrator. It involves repeated, unwanted actions that cause the victim to fear for their safety or well-being. In many cases, stalking can escalate, leading to more...

Anyone who’s being questioned in police custody should be reminded of their rights. These are known as the Miranda rights, which are named because of the case Miranda v. Arizona, which went before the Supreme Court and set specific requirements for reading individuals...

You see red and blue lights come on in the rearview mirror, and you realize a police officer is pulling you over. You slow down and move to the side of the road. The officer parks behind you and walks up to the window. When you open the window, you already have your...