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Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Legal Questions

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499 legal questions have been posted about criminal law by real users in Pennsylvania. Ask your question and dive into the knowledge of attorneys who handle your issue regularly. Similar topics to explore also include theft, weapons charges, and death penalty. All topics and other states can be accessed in the dropdowns below.
Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Questions & Legal Answers
Do you have any Pennsylvania Criminal Defense questions and need some legal advice or guidance? Ask a Lawyer to get an answer or read through our 499 previously answered Pennsylvania Criminal Defense questions.
Criminal Law
Pennsylvania

Recent Legal Answers

Public defender won’t help

Answered 22 days ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You're dealing with a felony firearms case, why are you going to the public defenders office? You need to treat this with the seriousness that it is. I highly recommend contacting a local attorney to represent your interests and stop fiddling around.
You're dealing with a felony firearms case, why are you going to the public defenders office? You need to treat this with the seriousness that it is.... Read More

I was arrested because I was at a center n they issued warrant even though I was having nervous breakdown they told me to go to hospital I have warran

Answered 23 days ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Give you office a call. We can help you in this situation - Kearney Law - 717-668-8159
Give you office a call. We can help you in this situation - Kearney Law - 717-668-8159

Dwi

Answered a month ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
I would really suggest getting a lawyer to represent you privately. Had you had a private lawyer this very documentation would have likely already been procured and provided. I know that we have our clients do these things very early in their cases and provide it before the plea even occurs so there are never any licensing holdups. You've got quite a hole to dig out of here and it would make sense to get a lawyer on the job to work for you!... Read More
I would really suggest getting a lawyer to represent you privately. Had you had a private lawyer this very documentation would have likely already... Read More

How and when can I get a public defender I can cannot afford to hire a lawyer in PA

Answered a month ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You should hire an attorney to address this ahead of time with the police. The PD's Office will not get invovled pre-charge usually. If it is important to you to do it right, fidn a way and get good counsel on it.
You should hire an attorney to address this ahead of time with the police. The PD's Office will not get invovled pre-charge usually. If it is... Read More

What charge do you get for cashing a check in jail

Answered 2 months ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
The way that you described this, it doesn't seem like he did anything illegal. Is he not allowed to deposit a check into his own bank account when he's on work release? Was some of that money supposed to go to the work release program?
The way that you described this, it doesn't seem like he did anything illegal. Is he not allowed to deposit a check into his own bank account when... Read More

My boyfriend “found” cocaine and paraphernalia in my room (we don’t share a room) and called the cops. Will I be charged even though I wasn’t home?

Answered 3 months ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Based upon what you've indicated here, I think it's extremely likely you will be charged with possession of that cocaine. My guess is of the police indicated whether or not you would be charged.I would definitely recommend hiring attorney to be proactive and represent you in that matter hearing in the York area. The are some things that you can do proactively to get ahead of this that you really should be doing. T.L. Kearney, IV (717-668-8159 x1)... Read More
Based upon what you've indicated here, I think it's extremely likely you will be charged with possession of that cocaine. My guess is of the police... Read More

Not yet

Answered 3 months ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
If you have been charged you are required to report this to Probation under standard probation conditions, and they will ultimately find it anyway. Get ahead of it and you should definitely have represenation from an attorney if you are charged. If you are not charged, and may never be charged, then don't out yourself to your PO. T.L. Kearney, IV (Ph: 717-668-8159   Email: TL@TLKearneyLaw.com) ... Read More
If you have been charged you are required to report this to Probation under standard probation conditions, and they will ultimately find it anyway.... Read More

Im on probation for 3rd degree felony theft jewelery 5 years probation I stole again but it was only 700$ for the jewelry should I contact my probatio

Answered 3 months ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Have you been criminally charged with the conduct of stealing/Theft For this second time that you've done it?
Have you been criminally charged with the conduct of stealing/Theft For this second time that you've done it?

I was subpoenad by the Commonwealth as a witness but the defendant, who. I know, has been harassing me and threatening me to exaggerate my story. WhaI

Answered a year and 7 months ago by Matthew R. Nahrgang (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
It is illegal to interfere with witness testimony.  You should absolutely disclose such conduct to the DA immediately. Matthew R. Nahrgang, Esquire 35 Evansburg Road, Ste 400 Collegeville, PA 19426 610 489-3041 o 610 489-3042 fax mnahrgang@verizon.net nahrganglaw.com 
It is illegal to interfere with witness testimony.  You should absolutely disclose such conduct to the DA immediately. Matthew R. Nahrgang,... Read More

Can I still be held liable for a hit and run if the person I hit left the scene first?

Answered a year and 9 months ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Yes, this is a hit and run. You are required to remain on scene and exchange information with the owner of the property damaged.
Yes, this is a hit and run. You are required to remain on scene and exchange information with the owner of the property damaged.

If I’m charged with possession of stolen property can I offer to pay for the item

Answered a year and 11 months ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You should have an attorney navigate this for you. This may be a good strategy to assist in negotiating the case, but if your just offering that without an attorney hiding the case, you likely won't ask much effect. For doing so.
You should have an attorney navigate this for you. This may be a good strategy to assist in negotiating the case, but if your just offering that... Read More

I want to expunge a record

Answered 2 years ago by attorney T.L. Kearney IV   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You will have to provide more information regarding your question here
You will have to provide more information regarding your question here

I caused a car accident over 10 yrs ago that didn't cause any damage to the person's car; however, my license was suspended by that driver's atty.

Answered 2 years and a month ago by attorney Stephen Arnold Black   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You would have to read the final judgment that the court entered to determine what your rights and obligations are. 
You would have to read the final judgment that the court entered to determine what your rights and obligations are. 

Police brutality

Answered 2 years and 5 months ago by attorney Jason R. Young   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Sorry to hear of this unfortunate situation. A suit against the police could be in the offing. First though, defending against her charges is paramount.
Sorry to hear of this unfortunate situation. A suit against the police could be in the offing. First though, defending against her charges is... Read More

How to handle a first DUI with minor children in the vehicle.

Answered 2 years and 6 months ago by attorney Jason R. Young   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
He's going to need financial help to hire private counsel. I HIGHLY recommend hiring private counsel under these circumstances. it's unclear where the case is charged. Call a few attorneys. Many of us offer free consultations. Good luck to him.
He's going to need financial help to hire private counsel. I HIGHLY recommend hiring private counsel under these circumstances. it's unclear where... Read More

Should I turn myself in

Answered 2 years and 8 months ago by attorney Jason R. Young   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You absolutely need a lawyer who we should hire in advance to turn yourself in. I have personally handled these cases. Good results are available if again, you hire a lawyer, who can turn you in so that you avoid jail time on the warrant.
You absolutely need a lawyer who we should hire in advance to turn yourself in. I have personally handled these cases. Good results are available if... Read More

looking to file a defamation suit against my probation officer

Answered 3 years and 7 months ago by Greg Anthony Dann (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
I think you, or lawyers.com missed labeled this question. It doesn’t appear to be an immigration question. Unless you are an immigrant with or without a Green Card, you must speak with an immigration attorney ASAP. Most immigration attorneys offer a free consultation, so you should be able to get your questions answered at no charge. You will also need to speak to a criminal law attorney.   Greg Dann, Esq., MBA Immigration Attorney   GAD Legal, LLC www.gadlegal.com Gdann@gadlegal.com Office: (888) 315-4828 Fax: (412) 847-5885... Read More
I think you, or lawyers.com missed labeled this question. It doesn’t appear to be an immigration question. Unless you are an immigrant with or... Read More

Can I be held for trial without ever being formally booked? I received a citation but never went to the police station to be booked? I was put on bail

Answered 3 years and 7 months ago by Wana Saadzoi (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Because you received a summons and the charges you mentioned, it is best that you contact an attorney to discuss the equities of your case and any possible defenses available to you.  If you fail to show up for your Pleminary Hearing, a bench warrant will be issued for your arrest, so it is best retain the services of a lawyer prior to your hearing given the charges against you. ... Read More
Because you received a summons and the charges you mentioned, it is best that you contact an attorney to discuss the equities of your case and any... Read More

Can you find out if someone has a warrant?

Answered 4 years and a month ago by Ryan L Hyde (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Most arrest warrant's will show up in the docket sheets as an inactive case.  This includes bench warrants and arrest warrants.  So the easiest place to begin is https://ujsportal.pacourts.us/.  You can do a name search there and review any cases you might have.  In some cases it makes sense to retain counsel to assist you in researching with the Sherrifs department.  Finally, if you think you have a warrant, chances are you might.  Now might be the time to get an attorney.  Waiting until you are arrested is a good way to spend more time in jail than you need to. ... Read More
Most arrest warrant's will show up in the docket sheets as an inactive case.  This includes bench warrants and arrest warrants.  So the... Read More

Can you move out of state while you're on ARD in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.

Answered 4 years and 2 months ago by Matthew R. Nahrgang (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
I don’t know if you were represented for the ARD, but if not, I suggest contacting the ADA on the case.    If you wish to reply, the best method is directly.     Best Regards,   Matthew R. Nahrgang, Esquire 35 Evansburg Road, Ste 400 Collegeville, PA 19426 (610) 489-3041 o (610) 489-3042 fax nahrganglaw.com... Read More
I don’t know if you were represented for the ARD, but if not, I suggest contacting the ADA on the case.    If you wish to reply, the... Read More

CREDIT CARD THEFT

Answered 4 years and 3 months ago by Matthew R. Nahrgang (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Based on the facts presented, I would speak to the police.  It sounds like the tech has essentially stolen your property. I trust this answers your questions and, if you live in the Delaware Valley, feel free to call or email me on a free initial basis. Best Regards,   Matthew R. Nahrgang, Esquire 35 Evansburg Road, Ste 400 Collegeville, PA 19426 (610) 489-3041 o (610) 489-3042 fax nahrganglaw.com... Read More
Based on the facts presented, I would speak to the police.  It sounds like the tech has essentially stolen your property. I trust this answers... Read More

I need a Criminal defense attorney

Answered 4 years and 3 months ago by Matthew R. Nahrgang (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
In the criminal justice system, the state is the Plaintiff, even if a private complaint is filed.  Accordingly, your description suggests that the matter is not criminal, but civil.  The best way to evaluate the matter is by reviewing the complaint filed against you. I trust this answers your questions and, if you live in the Delaware Valley, feel free to call or email me on a free initial basis.      Best Regards,   Matthew R. Nahrgang, Esquire 35 Evansburg Road, Ste 400 Collegeville, PA 19426 (610) 489-3041 o (610) 489-3042 fax nahrganglaw.com... Read More
In the criminal justice system, the state is the Plaintiff, even if a private complaint is filed.  Accordingly, your description suggests that... Read More

What can I expect at a status hearing scheduled?

Answered 4 years and 4 months ago by Barnaby Wittels (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
You need to talk to your pouboc defenddr. A status listing can mean several things in lnc,uding whether the case is ready for tril, whetheer the case is going to be a pleas, whether the issues is status of counsel. The onkly thing you know for certain is that this date isnot your trial date beause it is a status date,... Read More
You need to talk to your pouboc defenddr. A status listing can mean several things in lnc,uding whether the case is ready for tril, whetheer the case... Read More

My boyfriend was accused of a crime the police came to my house with a search warrant for my vehicle. How long can they keep my car

Answered 4 years and 7 months ago by Barnaby Wittels (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
It depends. If the cr ios evidence then it may be kept until the case is over. Usually and in most cases, once the car is processed and swhatever evidence is sought is removed fromthe car, the police will release the car to the owner. Be prepred to porve that you are the owner. You should call the police depwrtment that seized the vehicle, speak to the assigned detecitve and ask politel;y when yur car can be released to you. Explain that you need the car for work, or for family and again, be polite when yiu are speaking to the detective. Civility can go along way!... Read More
It depends. If the cr ios evidence then it may be kept until the case is over. Usually and in most cases, once the car is processed and swhatever... Read More

Do I need an attorney for my formal arraignment

Answered 4 years and 7 months ago by Barnaby Wittels (Unclaimed Profile)   |   1 Answer   |  Legal Topics: Criminal Defense
Forml arrqignment is a criticl stage of the criminal proceeding and you definitely need a lawyer. At formal arraignment a olea is entered and it needs to be a counseled plea. Also, depending on whst county yiu are in the case may be giuven a trial date and discovery may be exchanged. So you deiniftely need a lawyer. If your county bar association has a lawyer referral servie this may be a good place to start in looking for a crimina lawyer.... Read More
Forml arrqignment is a criticl stage of the criminal proceeding and you definitely need a lawyer. At formal arraignment a olea is entered and it... Read More
Criminal Law
Pennsylvania

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