Recent headlines across the country have brought awareness to how police officers sometimes treat people of color. It can be difficult to draw broad conclusions from media reports, however. After all, while coverage of a single incident may be shocking, it also may...
Criminal Defense
Tactics authorities use to get you to self-incriminate
The manner in which you conduct yourself when communicating with Pennsylvania authorities may have a significant impact on the outcome of your interaction. Knowing what rights you maintain when dealing with law enforcement officials may help you avoid unnecessary...
Will a first-time drug charge ruin your life?
Being caught with an illegal substance in Pennsylvania can cause some serious upheaval in your life. If you have been charged with a felony, it may affect your candidacy for future jobs and even your eligibility to own a firearm. Do not lose hope if you are facing...
No, police do not always have to read you your Miranda rights
If you are a fan of television police dramas, you can probably recite the Miranda advisement from memory. This advisement, which comes from the 1966 U.S. Supreme Court case, Miranda v. Arizona, includes your right to remain silent and your right to have an attorney...
Does Pennsylvania still have a death penalty?
Most American states have a death penalty in place. Despite efforts to overthrow this in Pennsylvania, it remains a supporter. Many jurisdictions around the world have outlawed this practice for centuries as inhumane. You may have also come to the conclusion that it...
Self-defense might be a defense against violent crime charges
Physical disputes can quickly escalate and lead to criminal charges. In many cases, individuals in these situations are charged with felony level assault and battery, but in the most severe cases an individual can be hit with more serious charges like murder. If...
Don’t let incriminating statement derail your criminal defense
Prosecutors have a lot of ways to build murder cases against accused individuals. There might be DNA evidence, fingerprints, eyewitness accounts, and even incriminating statements made by the accused individual. This evidence might seem insurmountable, but that isn't...
Motorists have important rights
Many arrests and criminal prosecutions start when police stop a vehicle. Knowing your rights and how to respond to these stressful situations is important for your criminal defense. Police can ask drivers to pull over if they see them commit any traffic offense such...
Do you know your rights as a defendant? We think you should
Facing any criminal charge is always a serious matter. The situation requires that you accept what is happening to you and take immediate measures to defend yourself. You may understand that a proper criminal defense can protect you from the most severe consequences...
Who is prohibited from possessing a firearm in Pennsylvania?
People in Pennsylvania generally have the right to possess a firearm and there are many people who own guns. However, there are a number of restrictions on that right. People need to register the firearms and have a license if they want to carry them. Also, there are...