Aliquippa Criminal Defense Lawyer

Aliquippa Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal charges can turn your world upside down in a hurry. One day, your life could be going as normal, and the next, it can instantly change with an arrest. When you are under investigation or have been arrested, an experienced Aliquippa criminal defense lawyer at Levenson Law Firm can be the difference between panicked reactions and deliberate responses.

About Levenson Law Firm

Levenson Law Firm represents individuals accused of crimes in Aliquippa and throughout Beaver County, Pennsylvania. Cases range from those heard near the Beaver County Courthouse to those involving state and federal criminal violations. We focus our practice on defending the rights of people when the stakes are highest.

We are a father-daughter legal team. We have over 20 years of combined trial experience in the courtroom and a shared commitment to defending constitutional rights. Successful criminal defense demands knowledge of both legal principles and practical system workings to identify when government assumptions need to be challenged.

Relevant Criminal Defense Laws

The crime rate in Aliquippa is 14.41 per 1,000 residents. The violent crime rate was 2.99, and the property crime rate was 11.42.

Pennsylvania criminal defense laws are the foundation of every case. Most criminal offenses are defined in the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. This includes laws related to prohibited behavior, grading, and penalties for most crimes, and determines whether an offense is a summary offense, misdemeanor, or felony.

The Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure set the framework for how a criminal defense case proceeds through the court system. These rules establish what actions the government can legally take throughout the entire criminal process, from arrest to trial procedures. When rules are violated, evidence may be deemed inadmissible, or charges may be dismissed. How the law in these statutes applies to your case is an important part of an effective defense.

Misdemeanors vs. Felonies

Not all criminal charges are the same, but all should be taken seriously. In Pennsylvania, crimes are typically charged as either misdemeanors or felonies. The most significant difference is in the penalties, but other important aspects are affected.

Misdemeanors are less serious offenses than felonies. However, they can still result in jail time, probation, fines, and a criminal record. Felonies are the most serious criminal charges and generally carry longer potential prison sentences, higher fines, and more severe consequences for civil rights and liberties.

Classification affects not only the possible punishment but also bail and other decisions along the way. Misdemeanor cases can follow a different procedure than felony cases, and defenses that may be possible in one situation may not work in the other. Criminal defense is tailored to the individual, regardless of charge.

What to Do and Not Do if Charged

If you are charged with a crime, your actions from the very beginning can matter a great deal. When law enforcement begins questioning you, you have a right to remain silent and request an attorney. Do not feel pressured to talk without legal counsel. Casual conversations can be misunderstood or used as evidence against you later.

You should also avoid discussing your case on social media or with friends, family, or coworkers. This includes posting bail or going home. Even an attempt to clarify your situation can be used as evidence. Always follow court orders, appear for any required hearings, and adhere strictly to bail conditions to avoid further complications.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Deciding to hire a criminal defense lawyer early on can provide a degree of protection when the pressure is the greatest. A defense attorney can even the odds in a legal system that naturally benefits the government by managing law enforcement communications and filing motions to suppress evidence or halt illegal procedures.

An early legal representation ensures exhaustive evidence examination and timely identification of flaws within the prosecutor’s case. It also means that the strategy for your case is built around your unique circumstances and priorities. If you wait too long to hire an Aliquippa criminal defense attorney, you may miss out on opportunities that would otherwise be accessible.

FAQs

How Can a Lawyer Challenge Evidence Such as Witness Statements, Digital Files, or Forensic Reports?

A lawyer can challenge evidence such as witness statements, digital files, or forensic reports by examining how the evidence was obtained, handled, and analyzed. For example, they might question the credibility of a witness, challenge the accuracy of digital data, or scrutinize the methods and procedures used by forensic analysts and labs. Lawyers can move to suppress or restrict evidence when it is improperly gathered or unreliable.

What Should I Expect During Plea Negotiations With the Prosecutor?

Plea negotiations are discussions between the defense and prosecution about resolving a case without going to trial. Prosecutors can propose lighter charges or sentencing suggestions to defendants who agree to plead guilty. The defense attorney examines plea offers while detailing the possible risks and benefits before assisting the defendant in deciding whether the proposed resolution serves their interests.

How Long Does a Typical Criminal Case Take to Resolve in Pennsylvania?

The time it takes to resolve a criminal case in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the complexity of the case, the charges involved, and the court’s docket. While some cases get resolved within several months through dismissal or plea discussions, defense lawyers negotiate with prosecutors; others that proceed to trial may last a year or longer. Motions, discovery conflicts, and requests for continuances can create delays in criminal cases.

How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Pennsylvania?

The cost of hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Pennsylvania varies depending on the type of charge, the complexity of the case, and whether the case goes to trial. Some lawyers charge flat fees, while others bill by the hour. Cases involving serious felonies or federal charges often require more time, preparation, and litigation, resulting in higher fees.

Contact Us Today

If you have been charged with a crime, Levenson Law Firm can help you in the legal process and fight for your rights. Contact us today for more information.