Allison Park Criminal Defense Lawyer

Allison Park Criminal Defense Attorney

Facing criminal charges is frightening, and the process becomes even more confusing when you do not know what to expect or how serious the charges may be. An arrest or accusation can soon snowball into court dates, legal deadlines, and long-term consequences for your career, family, and reputation. An experienced Allison Park criminal defense lawyer can protect your rights and help you see a path forward during a stressful and uncertain time.

About Levenson Law Firm

Levenson Law Firm serves clients charged with criminal offenses throughout Allison Park, Pittsburgh, and all of Allegheny County. Our attorneys handle cases in the Allegheny County Court of Common Pleas and the surrounding jurisdictions on a regular basis.

As a father-daughter legal team, we offer over 20 years of combined courtroom experience and a shared commitment to protecting constitutional rights. We focus on helping clients through the criminal justice system and challenging the government at every stage.

Relevant Criminal Defense Laws in Pennsylvania

According to NeighborhoodScout, there were 131 crimes in a given year in Allison Park. Of these, 16 were violent crimes, and 115 were property crimes. The laws governing Pennsylvania criminal defense exist within multiple statutes, procedural guidelines, and constitutional safeguards.

Certain types of offenses have their own statutory scheme. Drug crimes are typically charged under the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, and DUI or traffic-related charges are covered by the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. If charged with a federal crime, a separate set of federal statutes, procedural rules, and sentencing guidelines applies.

Individual rights are also detailed in the US Constitution, including protections against unreasonable searches and seizures and self-incrimination, as well as a guarantee of the right to counsel. If any of these rights are violated, important evidence may be suppressed, weakening the government’s criminal defense case.

Common Types of Criminal Charges

Criminal charges range from minor offenses to serious felonies that can change your life. No matter what the allegations are, we represent individuals in a wide variety of criminal matters, including state and federal charges. Some common types of criminal charges:

• Drug crimes
• Sex crimes
• White-collar crimes
• Federal crimes
• Violent crimes
• Property crimes
• Post-conviction relief

Each case requires a careful review of the facts, the evidence, and how the investigation was conducted. Defense strategies can vary significantly based on the evidence, even if the charges are similar.

What to Do if You Are Charged With a Crime

If you have been charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, your actions in the first few days matter. One of the most important steps is to remain calm and avoid speaking to the police without an attorney present. You may believe you are explaining the situation, but statements can be misunderstood or used against you at a later date.

You should also review all paperwork received, carefully follow any court requirements, and contact an attorney as soon as possible. An Allison Park criminal defense attorney can help explain the charges, discuss potential outcomes, and immediately start protecting your rights. You are in a better position to develop your defense while the case is still forming, rather than reacting after key decisions have already been made.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

Making the decision to hire a criminal defense lawyer early can have a positive impact on your case. As soon as charges are filed or you are arrested, prosecutors and law enforcement begin building their version of events, sometimes even before formal charges are brought. Without an attorney, people may unknowingly waive rights, consent to searches, or provide statements that can be used to build the case against them.

A criminal defense lawyer can help handle negotiations with prosecutors. They can also ensure that your rights are protected and challenge the evidence against you. If your rights were violated, you can petition for any related evidence to be thrown out. They can also make sure that you understand what your legal options are.

FAQs

How Does Bail Work in Pennsylvania, and Can an Attorney Help Reduce It?

Bail in Pennsylvania is set to ensure a person’s return to court and not as punishment. When determining bail amounts, judges take into account how serious the crime is, along with the defendant’s past offenses and likelihood of fleeing. Defense lawyers can request lower bail or non-financial release terms, such as release on recognizance, by demonstrating mitigating factors or opposing excessive bail conditions.

What Are the Potential Consequences of a Misdemeanor Versus a Felony Charge in Pennsylvania?

The potential consequences of a misdemeanor are generally less severe than felonies but can still lead to jail time, fines, probation, and a permanent criminal record. Felonies carry more serious consequences, including longer prison sentences, higher fines, and long-lasting restrictions on employment, housing, and firearms rights. Both have long-term impacts beyond the courtroom.

Can a Criminal Defense Lawyer Help Get Charges Reduced or Dismissed?

Yes, a criminal defense lawyer can often help get charges reduced or dismissed. They can challenge the evidence, identify procedural errors, and file motions to suppress illegally obtained evidence. Advocacy efforts can lead to alternative solutions such as reduced penalties or diversion programs, even if dismissal of charges becomes unattainable.

What Defenses Are Available for Common Criminal Charges in Pennsylvania?

Available defenses depend on the charge and specific facts of the case. Common defenses include illegal search challenges, questioning evidence or witness reliability, lack of intent, mistaken identity, and self-defense. Procedural violations and constitutional issues can also form strong defenses. The lawyer reviews evidence and circumstances to identify suitable legal approaches.

Contact Levenson Law Firm Today.

Facing criminal charges is serious. The choices you make now can impact your future for years. You don’t have to navigate the criminal justice system by yourself. Levenson Law Firm can help you in this legal process. Contact us today to get started.