PRACTICE AREA

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

When Your Freedom Is On The Line, Our Lawyer Is There For You

Facing criminal charges is scary and confusing. We know that a criminal conviction can have far-reaching and lifelong consequences. Not knowing what to expect or the fear of severe punishment makes some people eager to speak with the police, consent to searches, confess or plead guilty without understanding the full impact of their actions. We have proved to be unrelenting to assure that all our clients’ rights are protected. An experienced lawyer who can develop a solid defense strategy for you may mean a reduced sentence or even dropped charges. We are prepared to zealously defend our clients and protect their rights at every stage of the criminal process, from the investigative stage through the pretrial, trial and appeal stages.

Practice Areas

Protect Your Future From A Drug Charge Conviction

Whether you have been charged with marijuana possession, intent to sell cocaine, unlawfully using prescription medications, drug trafficking or another drug-related offense, you are facing serious penalties that can impact your life for years to come. Regardless of the severity of the offense charged — from possession of paraphernalia to drug trafficking or distribution charges — you need a knowledgeable, aggressive defense attorney at your side, protecting your due process rights and working for the best possible outcome.

At Miele & Rymsza, P.C., we understand the worries and fears associated with drug charges and work diligently to provide the support you need to defend yourself against the criminal charges against you. We work with adults as well as students from local post-secondary schools, including:

Pennsylvania College of Technology
Mansfield University
Susquehanna University
Bucknell University

Lycoming College
Bloomsburg University
Lock Haven University

Avoiding The Harm Of A Drug-Related Conviction

Drug convictions can have lasting negative impacts on your wallet, your freedom and your future. It can become very difficult to find gainful employment, rent an apartment or even obtain financial aid for your education with a drug conviction on your record.

Our attorney has dealt extensively with Pennsylvania prosecutors, judges and law enforcement agencies. We know when there are weaknesses in the case against you, and we know how to incorporate those weaknesses into a strong defense strategy. Licensed to defend clients in both state and federal courts, we are able to offer a defense against even the most serious drug charges.

Whatever your charges may be, you can rest assured that you will receive the high-quality and experienced support you need to combat the penalties stemming from a potential conviction. We aim to help our clients avoid hefty fines, loss of driving privileges and possible jail time.

Do Not Wait — Call Our Firm At 570-322-2113 For A Consultation Today

If you have been charged with any drug-related offense, don’t wait to get an attorney involved. Contact our office online or call 570-322-2113 to set up a free initial appointment and learn how we can help you avoid or minimize the consequences of a conviction.

Providing An Aggressive Defense Against DUI Charges

Being charged with a DUI or another alcohol-related offense can be a confusing experience, one that can lead to lasting penalties and heavily impact your wallet, your driver’s license and even your freedom. If you have been charged with driving under the influence, driving after imbibement or underage drinking, an experienced lawyer can fight to help you limit or eliminate the potential harm of a conviction.

Pennsylvania College of Technology
Mansfield University
Susquehanna University
Bucknell University

Lycoming College
Bloomsburg University
Lock Haven University

The law firm of Miele & Rymsza, P.C., provides aggressive defense and practical solutions to clients in the Williamsport, Pennsylvania, area who have been charged with DUI and other alcohol-related offenses. With your best interests always in mind, we offer the quality representation you need to develop a strong defense.

Examining Your Case To Devise Innovative Defense Strategies

An experienced attorney can look for weaknesses in the case against you — first and foremost, was there reasonable suspicion that allowed the arresting officer to legally make the initial traffic stop? Was all evidence against you obtained legally and in adherence with police policies and standards?

When there has been improper or illegal action by the police or investigators, it’s possible to have evidence excluded from your case. Sometimes excluding evidence means the state cannot meet its burden to prove the case against you. There may be issues with other parts of the case, including the test that was used to determine your blood alcohol content.

Mr. Rymsza, will carefully examine the case against you to search for any weaknesses or inconsistencies in the evidence in an effort to find the ammunition needed to pressure the prosecution into reducing or dropping the charges against you. No two cases are the same. Our firm is led by an innovative thinker and creative attorney who will work toward the best results possible for you.

Learn More About Our DUI Representation Services

Whether you are an area college student accused of underage drinking or were arrested on suspicion of drunk driving on your way home from the tavern, our attorney has the knowledge and experience needed to help you mount a strong defense against your charges. Contact our office online or call us at 570-322-2113 to arrange a free appointment to discuss your specific defense needs.

Frequently Asked Questions About DUI Charges

DUI and other alcohol-related charges have the potential for changing a moment of celebrating good times into a lasting legal scar on your record. Our firm has compiled a DUI FAQ page that answers some of the most common questions he hears in our offices about intoxicated driving and other crimes involving alcohol.

What Are The Standards Used To Determine Intoxicated Driving in Pennsylvania?

The state tests a driver’s blood alcohol content (BAC) to determine if they are driving drunk. There are three levels of BAC that are the focus of most DUI cases: The “per se” BAC limit for adults over age 21 of .08 percent The “zero tolerance” BAC limit for drivers under age 21 of .02 percent The enhanced penalty/aggravated DUI limits, which include one tier from .10 to .159 percent and a second tier of .16 percent Your measured BAC will be a critical part of the state’s case against you.
Why Should I Try To Challenge A DUI Charge?

Even if you are facing a first-time DUI, the conviction goes on your permanent record and may interfere with getting a job (particularly as a commercial driver) or renting an apartment. Beyond that, few DUI cases pressed by the state are airtight. Our firm will search for gaps or mistakes in the prosecution’s case, such as no probable cause for the DUI stop, errors in conducting field sobriety tests or mistakes in how the BAC tests were administered. Even if the evidence against you is compelling, having a dedicated defense attorney at your side can result in negotiations that could lead to a reduced sentence or a reduced charge. Do not pass up the chance to assert your due process rights.
This Is My Second DUI Arrest In 10 Years. Will I Go To Jail?

Not necessarily. Even though Pennsylvania increased its penalties for repeat DUI defendants in late 2018, the courts recognize that each DUI case involves a unique set of factors, including the recorded BAC level, additional driving hazards observed by law enforcement and a host of other factors. Judges dealing with second-time DUI drivers can impose penalties ranging from five days to five years (depending on your BAC tier) in jail/prison, community service hours, suspension of your driver’s license, attendance at Alcohol Highway Safety School or mandatory alcohol/drug treatment. But just as is the case for a first-time DUI, a skilled defense lawyer can review your case and see if any of the drunk driving defenses listed in the previous question apply to your case. These could result in a greatly reduced charge and diminished punishments.
I Am A College Student Facing My First DUI Arrest. What Consequences Could A Conviction Have For My Education?

College students put their entire educational experience at risk with a DUI arrest. Some consequences, depending on the institution, may include: Disciplinary actions for violating your institution’s code of conduct Parental notification about the DUI Loss of scholarships or other sources of funding Eviction from on-campus housing Restriction from participating in campus activities such as attending athletic events Suspension from classes or being expelled from the school Consulting with an attorney experienced with underage and college DUI cases can help you deal with both the criminal and academic consequences of your charge.

Trust Your DUI Case To A Trial-Tested DUI Attorney

Miele & Rymsza, P.C., works with clients throughout northeast and central Pennsylvania. Our lawyer knows how to find practical solutions to difficult cases. Call us in Williamsport at 570-322-2113 to schedule a free consultation today or email our firm.

Do Not Take A Repeat DUI Charge Lightly

First-time DUI arrests often lead to relatively light penalties — diversion programs, probation and/or fines. But Pennsylvania laws are much harsher when it comes to repeat DUI offenders. If you are facing your second, third or another type of repeat DUI charge, this is not the time to go to court without a lawyer. Having an experienced defense attorney at your side can truly make all the difference in the outcome of your case.

The law firm of Miele & Rymsza, P.C., aggressively defends clients in the northeastern and central Pennsylvania areas. We understand that there is so much at stake when it comes to a repeat DUI charge, including your freedom. Reaching out to a lawyer for the first time can be stressful on top of what you are already dealing with. That is why we encourage you to reach out to a firm like ours, which is led by a seasoned DUI defense counsel with a successful track record.

Potential Penalties For Repeat DUIs

Keep in mind that every DUI case is unique. A person’s past criminal record can impact a current charge. Here are general guidelines for penalties in Pennsylvania for repeat DUIs (within last 10 years of a person’s record):

Second DUI offense can mean a mandatory minimum of five, 30 or 90 days in jail. The maximum penalty can be up to five years of jail time.
Third DUI offense can result in a mandatory minimum of up to one year and a maximum penalty of up to five years of jail time.
DUIs with aggravated circumstances (such as causing serious bodily harm or death) can mean a three-year mandatory minimum and up to 20 years of jail time.

These guidelines mention jail time potential. There are also other punishments to consider beyond incarceration, such as hefty fines, license suspensions and other collateral consequences. To understand what is at stake for your specific situation, make an appointment to talk to our firm’s lawyer.

Get The Legal Protection You Need

We encourage you to act now to discuss your repeat DUI charge. You can reach our law firm by calling 570-322-2113. You can also reach us online to schedule a free initial appointment.

The Serious Nature Of Sex Crime Charges

Charges relating to sex crimes are very serious. Whether you have been accused of sexual assault, rape or sexual abuse of a child, a lawyer who can offer an experienced and knowledgeable defense strategy can help protect your future and your freedom.

At Miele & Rymsza, P.C., we understand how damaging the implications of sexual assault or other sex-related crimes can be, and work diligently to provide the aggressive and experienced defense you need to defeat or defend against such charges.

A sex crime conviction can lead to jail time, required registry on the sex offender list according to Megan’s Law and the Adam Walsh Act, and even restrictions on your future living arrangements. We strive to offer the informative advice you need to mount the strongest defense possible.

Honest, Skilled Defense For Many Types Of Sex Offenses

Our firm provides aggressive criminal defense to clients in the Williamsport area and beyond. This experience has given us the knowledge and reputation needed to help you present a strong defense against various charges, including:

Sexual assault
Rape
Sexual abuse of children
Molestation
Online solicitation of a minor
Statutory rape
Date rape
Pornography offenses

Our experience allows us to address the various details relating to sex crime accusations, in turn giving us the ability to offer the comprehensive defense you need to protect your future from harm caused by a conviction.

Whether you wish to fight these charges aggressively at trial or believe that a plea negotiation would be in your best interests, we will provide you with candid answers and an honest assessment regarding the charges against you and the possible penalties you face, and explore with you all possible options for defense.

With So Much At Stake, Contact Our Firm Immediately

If you have been charged with a sex crime, email us or call 570-322-2113 to schedule a free consultation to discuss your defense needs with our attorney. Our firm serves clients throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania.

Facing Homicide Charges? Hire Lawyers Who Are Death Penalty-Certified.

A murder conviction in Pennsylvania can result in a death sentence for the defendant. Because your life may literally depend on the outcome of a trial, you need aggressive representation from a defense attorney who is experienced in trying capital cases.

Mr. Rymsza has handled many homicide cases, including death penalty cases. Our firm’s approach balances aggressive examination of every aspect of the case with a professional sensitivity that is crucial to successful presentations to jurors and judges.

Capital cases require certification, a process that ensures a level of competency in the defense of those facing the death penalty if convicted. Mr. Rymsza is certified to handle capital cases, and our firm has a strong reputation in Pennsylvania for our handling of death penalty cases.

Understanding The Complexity Of Homicide Charges

We represent individuals who face a variety of homicide charges, including:

Murder
Manslaughter
Vehicular homicide
Death penalty cases

We have an intricate knowledge of homicide arrest procedures, evidence handling and witness testimony, and we use that knowledge to strengthen your defense. We review every aspect of your arrest, prosecution and all available evidence. We have developed an excellent network of forensic and medical experts, as well as connections with experts who can speak to the unreliability of eyewitness testimony. All of these professionals can assist with your defense and testify on your behalf if necessary.

Trust Our Legal Team To Confront Your Murder Charge

Homicide charges are too serious to rely on inexperienced and unproven legal representation. Call Miele & Rymsza, P.C., at 570-322-2113 or email our firm to receive a free case consultation. We serve clients in Williamsport and elsewhere throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania.

Building An Effective Defense Against White Collar Criminal Charges

An arrest or conviction for a white collar crime can be devastating to a career or to an entire company. A conviction can have a significant impact on professional licensing and accreditation. Even the implications of criminal actions can damage a career. It is more important than ever that a person who is charged with one of these crimes hires an attorney who has extensive experience handling these cases. Edward J. Rymsza, of Miele & Rymsza, P.C., has the unique skill set that is necessary to counter the aggressive federal prosecutors who handle many white collar crimes.

What Are White Collar Crimes? What Are The Potential Penalties?

Unlike crimes that use force, white collar crimes are crimes of deception and theft that use accounting, paperwork and other means of business obfuscation to their advantage. Penalties for being convicted of a white collar crime can consist of fines, restitution and prison, and charges are brought at state and federal levels.

Our attorney delivers experienced representation to professionals from all industries in a wide variety of white collar crimes, including:

Wire fraud
Bribery
Embezzlement
Extortion
Forgery
Securities fraud
Medicaid fraud
Insurance fraud
Larceny
Perjury
Tax evasion

If you face charges on a white collar crime, or even if you are being investigated in connection with a white collar crime, it is no time to take chances by relying on untested legal representation. The government can utilize forfeiture laws immediately after charges have been filed taking away your home and property. Additional penalties include substantial fines and prison time.

When Does A White Collar Crime Become A Federal Case?

While each state, including Pennsylvania, has laws prohibiting white collar crime, if interstate commerce is involved, federal charges may be filed. This is common in situations such as mail fraud, bank fraud, wire fraud, telemarketing fraud or investor fraud, where the victims may live or operate their business outside of the state.

If you are being investigated for a case that could result in federal charges, it is crucial to hire a defense lawyer who is experienced in federal court procedures, and who is ready to aggressively represent you and help you avoid the harsh mandatory minimum sentences that some federal white collar crimes carry.

Intervening To Defend Your Due Process Rights

White collar crime investigations are complex and lengthy. Often, a person knows an investigation is occurring long before any charges are brought. It is important to hire an attorney as soon as you know you are being investigated. Our firm will work behind the scenes with state and federal prosecutors to prevent prosecutions.

Protect Your Reputation And Your Freedom — Add Our Firm To Your Legal Team

We represent individuals throughout Pennsylvania charged with white collar crimes. To set up a free case consultation to learn more about how we can help you, call our office in Williamsport at 570-322-2113 or email us.

Child Pornography Charges Require Immediate Legal Representation

Child pornography allegations can create an immediate and extreme challenge for you and your family. Even before you are charged and convicted, there is an unfair social stigma that presumes you are already guilty of a crime you have yet to be tried for. Child pornography charges are some of the most damaging sex crimes charges a person can face. The potential implications go far beyond just jail time.

Never speak to investigators without an attorney. Get a seasoned defense lawyer who focuses on sex crimes immediately. The sooner you have proper legal defense at your side, the better it is for your case. With both state and federal criminal defense experience, Edward J. Rymsza, is ready to and able to tackle your child pornography case.

The Lingering Damage Of Child Pornography Convictions

Child pornography charges can include possession of child pornography, distribution of child pornography, possession with intent to sell or distribute, production of child pornography and more. Other sex offenses can be added to the child porn charges. The potential of prison time is significant, and your defense cannot be taken lightly.

There is also the potential of being on the sex offender registry for life. The registry is public information and can seriously hamper your ability to get a job or advance your career, not to mention the ongoing humiliation and social stigma.

Our lawyer understands how prosecutors approach child pornography cases and can help you develop defense strategies with the greatest chance of an optimal outcome.

Do Not Hesitate — Contact Our Firm Today

Even if an investigation has not been launched, if you have been accused of an association with child pornography, do not wait to get defense counsel. You can reach out to Miele & Rymsza, P.C., by calling 570-322-2113 or using our online contact form to schedule a free initial appointment. Our office is in Williamsport, and we represent clients throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania.

Violating State Gun Possession Laws

American citizens are granted the right to own and carry firearms by the Second Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, but that right is not unlimited. Pennsylvania has its own laws regarding gun ownership, and violation of these laws can carry heavy penalties, including years in prison and fines in the tens of thousands of dollars range.

At Miele & Rymsza, P.C., based in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, our attorney, Edward J. Rymsza, is experienced in defending clients facing misdemeanor and felony gun possession charges. Firearms-related criminal cases often hinge on circumstances unique to the situation, so our firm is ready to thoroughly examine the state’s case against our client to check for weaknesses that can be used as leverage in negotiations with the prosecutor.

An Overview Of Pennsylvania’s Gun Laws

Pennsylvania’s gun laws are not the strictest in the nation, but they are also not lax in any sense of the term. The state has a 48-hour waiting period before purchasing a gun, and while residents may “open carry” in a visible holster anywhere except Philadelphia, concealed carry of a weapon requires a License to Carry Firearms (LTCF) permit. Residents can apply for the LTCF permit in the county where they live, and must be 21 to make the application.

Disqualification from carrying firearms after a criminal conviction is based largely on the type of conviction. Some felonies do not prevent gun ownership, while some misdemeanors do. If you have a previous criminal conviction, you should consult a lawyer about your gun rights. The following persons are banned from gun ownership or possession in the state:

A young adult under the age of 18
Someone convicted of a violent criminal charge (misdemeanor or felony)
Undocumented immigrants
Fugitives from justice
Residents convicted of three DUI charges within five years
A person subject to an active protection from abuse order

Contact Us To Learn Your Options

Call our office at 570-322-2113 or email us to set up a free introductory appointment. We work with clients throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania.

Defending Yourself From Violent Crime Charges

Whether you have been charged with simple assault, reckless endangerment or trespassing, or other crimes such as kidnapping, rape, domestic violence or homicide, it is important to realize that in the eyes of the law, they are all considered violent crimes and carry heavy penalties. Sentences for violent crimes can range from a year in jail and a $2,000 fine for a misdemeanor charge all the way up to 20 years in prison and a $25,000 fine for a first-degree felony.

Because the punishments are so harsh for violent crimes, the prosecution must present a case that proves your guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This high level of proof required often results in opportunities for your defense attorney to negotiate and have your charges reduced or dropped. If your case must go to court, a lawyer who can identify the weaknesses in the state’s case against you may be able to help you gain a “not guilty” verdict.

Edward J. Rymsza is an aggressive, strategic criminal defense lawyer who has experience handling violent crime cases in state, federal and appellate courts. Miele & Rymsza, P.C. serves clients across northeastern and central Pennsylvania, and our focus is providing you with the best outcome possible in your case.

What Actions Are Considered Violent Crimes?

While the term violent crime may sound initially like a “catchall” category, the common thread that ties all such charges together is the threat or use of force — including deadly force — to accomplish one’s objective. This can include crimes such as:

Simple assault
Aggravated assault
Armed robbery
Rape/sexual assault and other violent sex crimes
Domestic violence
Kidnapping
Homicide or murder charges
Reckless endangerment
Arson
Intimidating a witness

Our firm works diligently to ensure our clients’ due process rights are preserved throughout their journey through the justice system. It is easy to feel intimidated by law enforcement and make statements without an attorney present or consent to a search without a warrant. We review your case and fight all the way to the end to ensure you receive a fair trial.

Call Us At 570-322-2113 Today To Begin Working Together

Based in Williamsport, Miele & Rymsza, P.C., offers a free introductory meeting. To set one up, call us at 570-322-2113 or email our firm.

Protecting The Rights Of Individuals Charged With Crimes

At the law firm of Miele & Rymsza, P.C., we represent those who have been charged with virtually every kind of misdemeanor or felony criminal offenses. We realize that any criminal charge is serious. Whatever your charge, we can help you. Mr. Rymsza aggressively defends people charged in state and federal court with:

Crimes against property, including burglary, fraud and embezzlement
Drug offenses, including possession of a controlled substance and intent to sell or distribute/drug trafficking
Alcohol-related offenses that include drunk driving, DUI/DWI, minor in possession and public intoxication

Computer crimes and pornography
Other violent crimes, including assault, arson and robbery
White collar offenses
Traffic violations
Trials/appeals
Post-conviction proceedings/habeas corpus
Homicide/murder, including death penalty cases

Defending Clients Under Age 18

Our firm understands that juveniles make mistakes. We understand the sensitive nature of being legally punished as adults for something they did at a young age.

If your child has been charged with a crime, we will work to ensure he or she is tried as a juvenile. We work tirelessly to lessen your child’s sentence, reduce the punishment to probation and/or have the charge expunged from your child’s record when he or she turns 18.

We Represent You Throughout Your Interactions With The Justice System

Our firm serves clients throughout northeastern and central Pennsylvania. Contact us to schedule a free consultation by calling 570-322-2113 , or email the firm.

MIELE & RYMSZA, P.C.

PRACTICE AREA

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

FEDERAL CRIMINAL DEFENSE

APPEALS

CRIMINAL DEFENSE

When Your Freedom Is On The Line, Our Lawyer Is There For You

Practice Areas

Protect Your Future From A Drug Charge Conviction

Avoiding The Harm Of A Drug-Related Conviction

Do Not Wait — Call Our Firm At 570-322-2113 For A Consultation Today

Protecting The Rights Of Individuals Charged With Crimes

Defending Clients Under Age 18

We Represent You Throughout Your Interactions With The Justice System

MIELE & RYMSZA, P.C.