Bethel Park Criminal Defense Lawyer

Bethel Park Criminal Defense Attorney

Getting accused of a crime changes your life. Suddenly, you are thrust into a world of police questioning, court filings, and a system that moves forward whether you are ready or not. If you have been charged with a crime, working with an experienced Bethel Park criminal defense lawyer can help you regain a sense of control and take steps to protect yourself from consequences that can often last long after you leave the courtroom.

About Levenson Law Firm

Levenson Law Firm is a criminal defense firm serving clients in Bethel Park, Pittsburgh, and communities throughout Allegheny County. Our attorneys regularly represent individuals whose cases are heard at the Allegheny County Courthouse in downtown Pittsburgh, as well as in surrounding courts.

Criminal Defense Laws in Pennsylvania

The crime rate in Bethel Park is 9.54 per 1,000 residents. The violent crime rate is 0.9, while the property crime rate is 8.64.

Pennsylvania criminal cases are primarily governed by the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, which are also known as the Crimes Code. This body of law covers everything from low-level misdemeanors to the most serious felony offenses, defining the specific criminal acts, associated penalties, and defenses to each.

The Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure also shape criminal cases by establishing the rules and processes for arrest, search, charging, hearings, and trial. Additional statutes are applied as needed to individual cases.

For example, drug crimes are often charged under the Controlled Substance, Drug, Device and Cosmetic Act, and DUI or other traffic-related crimes are charged under the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. Federal cases, of course, are tried under an entirely different set of criminal statutes and rules.

Types of Crimes We Defend

Criminal charges can vary widely in severity, but any accusation has the potential to negatively impact your life, career, and reputation. We represent both individuals and businesses facing state and federal charges and approach each case with the understanding that the consequences always reach far beyond the courtroom. Some of the charges we defend against include:

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

Types of Criminal Defenses

There is no single criminal defense that works for every case. An effective criminal defense strategy always depends on the facts of the case, the available evidence, and how the law applies to those facts. Common types of defenses used in Pennsylvania criminal cases may include:

• Motion to suppress evidence. If law enforcement violated your rights during a search or seizure, for example, by obtaining evidence without a valid warrant or legal justification, that evidence can be excluded from the case.
• Self-defense or defense of others. Pennsylvania law allows the use of reasonable force in certain situations, and these defenses can be asserted in some assault or violent crime cases.
• Motion to dismiss for lack of evidence. The prosecution has the burden of proof in every criminal case and must prove every element of the offense beyond a reasonable doubt.
• Lack of intent or mistaken identity. Many crimes also require the prosecutor to prove intent. If that intent cannot be shown, the charge may not stick.
• Procedural errors or violation of rights. There are strict criminal procedures and steps that must be followed. If these are not observed, the prosecution’s case can be weakened or undermined.

Every criminal defense case requires a careful analysis of the police reports, witness statements, forensic evidence, and procedural history. The strongest defenses are developed early and adjusted as the case evolves.

Why Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are facing criminal charges, choosing to hire a criminal defense lawyer is not just about legal knowledge or courtroom skill. It is about having someone who understands how the system actually works and knows how to protect you from it.

Without a Bethel Park criminal defense attorney, it is easy to say or do something that harms your case, often without even realizing it at the time. A criminal defense attorney functions as your legal protector and planner who handles all communication tasks and essential legal motions while negotiating with prosecutors and getting ready for trial if required.

FAQs

What Should I Do If I’m Arrested in Bethel Park?

If you are arrested, it is important to stay calm and invoke your right to remain silent. You do not need to give the police a statement explaining your side of the story without a lawyer present. You should ask to speak with a criminal defense attorney as soon as possible. Protecting your rights and building a defense against criminal charges becomes easier when you start before any charges escalate and avoid making damaging statements.

Do I Need a Lawyer Even If My Charges Seem Minor?

Yes, you need a lawyer even if your charges seem minor. Even misdemeanor charges can have significant penalties, such as fines, probation, jail time, or a permanent criminal record. A charge that may seem minor at first can become more serious if not handled correctly. A criminal defense attorney examines the charges against a client to build defenses while striving to mitigate or remove long-term impacts on job prospects or professional credentials.

What Is the Difference Between State and Federal Charges?

State criminal charges are based on Pennsylvania law and are filed and prosecuted in the state courts of Pennsylvania. Federal criminal charges are based on violations of federal law and prosecuted by the United States Attorney in federal court. Federal investigations tend to be larger and last longer, and there are generally stricter sentencing guidelines. A federal case is also usually more complex.

Can My Case Be Dismissed Before Trial?

Yes, there are times when a case may be dismissed before trial. This could be due to a lack of evidence, a violation of constitutional rights, an illegal search, or other procedural violations. The police conduct and charging documents should be reviewed as early as possible. An experienced criminal defense attorney can file motions to suppress evidence and attack the prosecution’s case before it even gets to a jury.

Contact Levenson Law Firm.

If you have been charged with a crime, don’t delay seeking legal assistance. Levenson Law Firm can help you. Contact us today for a consultation.