Butler Criminal Defense Lawyer

Butler Criminal Defense Attorney

Criminal charges rarely appear in your life with clarity or gentle warnings. They arrive as a chaotic mix of confusion and urgency, bringing numerous unanswered questions. If you are facing an arrest, an investigation, or formal charges, an experienced Butler criminal defense lawyer can help you slow down the process, understand what is happening, and protect yourself against consequences that may not be immediately clear.

About Levenson Law Firm

Levenson Law Firm represents individuals facing criminal charges in Butler and throughout Western Pennsylvania. We regularly handle cases that work their way through the Butler County Courts, as well as nearby jurisdictions.

We are a father-daughter legal team with decades of combined courtroom experience and a shared commitment to protecting constitutional rights. We believe effective defense work starts with preparation, honesty, and the willingness to challenge the government when it oversteps.

Understanding Criminal Defense Laws

Pennsylvania criminal defense laws are complex and technical. Most criminal offenses are defined by the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes. This body of law establishes what conduct is criminal, how offenses are graded, and what penalties may apply. These statutes determine the difference between a summary offense, a misdemeanor, and a felony charge.

Rules of Criminal Procedure are just as important to criminal cases. The Pennsylvania Rules of Criminal Procedure detail procedures for conducting arrests and managing evidence disclosure, along with guidelines on advancing criminal cases from preliminary hearings to trial. Stringent criminal procedure regulations exist within the state to maintain justice, and violations by the government can lead to evidence being challenged or completely suppressed.

Common Criminal Charges in Butler

The crime rate in Butler is 18.02 in a given year. According to NeighborhoodScout, there were 236 crimes in the city in one year, with 75 being violent crimes and 161 being property crimes. Criminal charges can arise in many different ways, from routine traffic stops to long-term investigations. While no two criminal defense cases are exactly the same, certain types of charges are frequently seen in Butler County courts:

• White-collar crimes
• Drug crimes
• Property crimes
• Violent crimes
• Sex crimes
• Federal crimes

Every criminal charge carries different risks and requires a unique defense. Just because a tactic worked in one case does not mean it is going to work, or is even advisable, in another case. A Butler criminal defense attorney can help you develop the most appropriate defense tailored to your circumstances.

Penalties for a Criminal Conviction

The penalties for a criminal conviction in Pennsylvania can vary depending on the nature of the offense and whether it is a misdemeanor or felony. The court can sentence you to incarceration, probation, fines, and court costs. The penalties for a conviction also often reach further than the sentencing phase. Convictions may restrict your opportunity to find employment and housing, while also potentially impacting professional licenses and the ability to own firearms.

Certain crimes result in mandatory minimum terms or enhanced punishments for defendants with previous convictions. Criminal cases that do not lead to imprisonment still produce lasting negative impacts on an individual’s legal record. An early understanding of risks enables a defense strategy that targets both the criminal charges and minimizes long-term repercussions.

What to Do If Charged

Being charged with a crime can be a disorienting experience, but what you do next matters. First, do not discuss the situation with anyone other than your attorney. Information shared with friends, family members, or on social media sites can be easily misunderstood or used against you in the future. Follow all court orders, including court appearances and bond conditions, to avoid making the situation worse.

Keep all materials that support your defense safe, which should include all messages, receipts, and witness details. Most importantly, hire a criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible. You need early legal guidance to protect your rights while preventing mistakes and creating an effective case strategy before the situation escalates.

Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer

A defense attorney can manage communication on your behalf, file motions to protect your rights, and help you understand the real risks you are facing. Just as importantly, a lawyer can provide you with perspective. When emotions are high and information is limited, clear-headed advice can help you avoid making mistakes.

FAQs

How Does the Court Process Work From Arraignment Through Trial?

After the arraignment, the court officially informs you of the charges and may impose conditions like bail. The process includes pretrial motions, discovery, and evidentiary hearings where evidence can be contested. Some cases are settled through negotiation, while others go to trial. The prosecution must prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt during the trial.

What Happens If the Police Violated My Constitutional Rights During an Arrest or Search?

If the police violated your constitutional rights during an arrest or search, any evidence obtained may be subject to challenge or suppression. This typically involves filing motions to suppress unlawfully obtained evidence, such as items seized during an illegal search or statements made without proper warnings. Successful suppression can weaken the prosecution’s case significantly.

How Does Pennsylvania Handle First-Time Offender or Diversion Programs?

Pennsylvania has diversion programs available for eligible first-time or low-level offenders. Through participation in these programs, individuals can complete required counseling, treatment, or probation without receiving a criminal conviction. When participants successfully complete these programs, charges are often dismissed. Eligibility varies based on the offense, criminal history, and the approval of the court or prosecution.

Can a Criminal Conviction Be Expunged or Sealed in Pennsylvania?

In Pennsylvania, certain criminal records can be sealed or expunged under specific circumstances. Expungement eliminates legal records entirely, while sealing limits their accessibility to the public. Your eligibility for these programs depends on multiple aspects, like the nature of your offense, as well as your case’s outcome and the time that has passed since the offense occurred. Not all convictions qualify.

Contact Levenson Law Firm.

Being charged with a crime is a serious thing. Conviction can drastically, and sometimes permanently, alter your future. An attorney can help fight for the most beneficial outcome for you. Contact us today for a consultation.