Washington Criminal Defense Lawyer

Washington Criminal Defense Lawyer

Facing criminal charges in Washington, Pennsylvania, can put your freedom, reputation, employment, and future at risk. Whether you are under investigation, have recently been arrested, or are preparing for court, the decisions you make early in the process can have lasting consequences.

Levenson Law Firm represents individuals facing serious criminal allegations in Washington County and throughout Western Pennsylvania. Amy Jones provides direct, individualized criminal defense grounded in careful evidence analysis, sound professional judgment, and a strategy tailored to each client’s circumstances.

If you need a Washington criminal defense lawyer, obtaining legal advice early can help you understand the charges, protect your rights, and evaluate the available options.

Strategic Criminal Defense in Washington County

Criminal cases require more than a general understanding of the law. Effective representation begins with examining the prosecution’s evidence, identifying the legal issues that matter, and developing a defense strategy responsive to the facts.

At Levenson Law Firm, the approach to each case is informed by the nature of the allegations, the strength of the evidence, the client’s circumstances, and the potential consequences of a conviction.

Representation may involve:

• Advising clients during criminal investigations before charges are filed
• Reviewing police reports, witness statements, and other discovery
• Evaluating searches, seizures, interrogations, and other constitutional issues
• Challenging the sufficiency or admissibility of evidence
• Representing clients at preliminary hearings and other court proceedings
• Negotiating with prosecutors when an appropriate resolution is available
• Preparing for trial and presenting a defense
• Developing individualized sentencing and mitigation arguments

Not every case requires the same approach. The appropriate strategy depends on the evidence, applicable law, and the client’s objectives.

Criminal Charges We Defend

Levenson Law Firm represents individuals facing a range of serious Pennsylvania criminal charges, including:

• Drug possession, delivery, and trafficking offenses
• Firearms and weapons charges
• Aggravated assault and other violent crimes
• Robbery and homicide allegations
• Sex offenses
• Fraud, theft, and financial crimes
• Conspiracy and related criminal allegations

The firm also represents individuals facing federal criminal investigations and prosecutions in the Western District of Pennsylvania.

Learn more about our Pittsburgh criminal defense practice, drug crime defense, gun crime defense, and Pennsylvania federal criminal defense representation.

Individualized Representation at Levenson Law Firm

At Levenson Law Firm, clients work directly with Amy Jones throughout their representation. She examines the evidence, explains the legal process and available options, and develops a strategy informed by the law and the individual circumstances of the case.

The firm maintains a selective caseload to provide the preparation, attention, and professional judgment each matter deserves.

Clients receive candid advice about the strengths and weaknesses of their case, potential consequences, and available legal options. No particular result can be promised, but every case receives careful preparation and individualized attention.

Learn more about Levenson Law Firm and its approach to criminal defense.

Understanding Criminal Charges in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania criminal offenses are generally classified as felonies, misdemeanors, or summary offenses. The classification affects the potential penalties, court procedures, and consequences of a conviction.

Felonies are the most serious category of criminal offenses. They may carry substantial prison sentences, depending on the offense and its statutory grading.

Misdemeanors are generally less serious than felonies but may still result in incarceration, fines, probation, and a criminal record.

Summary offenses are the least serious category and may include certain traffic violations, disorderly conduct offenses, and other violations designated as summary offenses under Pennsylvania law.

The classification of a charge is only one factor in determining its consequences. The specific statute, the circumstances of the alleged conduct, and the defendant’s criminal history may also affect the potential sentence.

Felony and Misdemeanor Charges in Washington County

Levenson Law Firm represents individuals facing a range of criminal allegations in Washington County and throughout Western Pennsylvania.

Examples of offenses that may be charged as felonies, depending on the circumstances, include:

• Aggravated assault
• Robbery and burglary
• Homicide and manslaughter
• Drug delivery and trafficking
• Serious firearms offenses
• Fraud and financial crimes
• Certain sexual offenses
• Kidnapping and related offenses

Examples of offenses that may be charged as misdemeanors include:

• Simple assault
• Certain theft offenses
• Criminal trespass
• Criminal mischief
• Some drug possession offenses
• Certain harassment and disorderly conduct offenses

The grading of an offense depends on the applicable statute and facts. Some offenses may be classified differently depending on the alleged conduct, prior convictions, or other statutory factors.

For additional information, see our pages addressing Washington sex crime defense, Washington drug crime defense, and Washington violent crime defense.

Potential Criminal Penalties in Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania law establishes statutory sentencing ranges based on the classification of the offense. Under the general sentencing provisions, the maximum terms of imprisonment include:

• First-degree felony: Up to 20 years.
• Second-degree felony: Up to 10 years.
• Third-degree felony: Up to 7 years.
• First-degree misdemeanor: Up to 5 years.
• Second-degree misdemeanor: Up to 2 years.
• Third-degree misdemeanor: Up to 1 year.

These are general statutory maximums. Certain offenses are subject to separate sentencing provisions, and the maximum penalty does not necessarily reflect the sentence a court is likely to impose.

Pennsylvania courts also consider applicable sentencing guidelines, the defendant’s prior record, the circumstances of the offense, and other relevant sentencing considerations. Mandatory sentencing provisions may apply in particular cases.

Sentencing can involve imprisonment, probation where authorized, fines, restitution, and other court-imposed conditions.

What Happens After an Arrest in Washington County?

Although procedures vary depending on the charges and circumstances, Pennsylvania criminal cases generally involve several stages.

1. Arrest or Criminal Complaint

A criminal case may begin with an arrest, the filing of a criminal complaint, or the issuance of a summons.

Some investigations continue for weeks or months before charges are filed. Obtaining legal advice during an investigation may allow counsel to address important issues before formal proceedings begin.

2. Preliminary Arraignment and Bail

At a preliminary arraignment, the defendant is informed of the charges and advised of certain rights. The issuing authority may also determine conditions of release, including bail.

The purpose of this proceeding is different from formal arraignment in the Court of Common Pleas. A defendant ordinarily does not enter a trial plea at the preliminary arraignment.

3. Preliminary Hearing

In cases requiring a preliminary hearing, the Commonwealth must present sufficient evidence to establish a prima facie case that a crime was committed and that the defendant probably committed it.

The preliminary hearing is not a trial, and the prosecution is not required to establish guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at this stage.

Defense counsel may evaluate the evidence, cross-examine witnesses within the applicable procedural limits, and challenge whether the charges should proceed.

4. Proceedings in the Washington County Court of Common Pleas

Charges held for court generally proceed to the Washington County Court of Common Pleas.

Subsequent proceedings may include formal arraignment, discovery, pretrial motions, plea negotiations, trial, and sentencing.

At each stage, the appropriate defense strategy depends on the evidence, legal issues, and circumstances of the case.

Frequently Asked Questions About Criminal Defense in Washington, PA

When Should I Contact a Criminal Defense Lawyer?

As early as possible. You do not need to wait until formal charges are filed to seek legal advice.

If you learn that you are under investigation, receive a summons, or are contacted by law enforcement about alleged criminal conduct, an attorney can help you understand your rights and evaluate the appropriate response.

Should I Speak With Police Before Hiring a Lawyer?

You generally have the right to decline a voluntary interview with law enforcement and request legal counsel. The specific circumstances, including whether you are detained or subject to lawful police orders, may affect your obligations.

Before making substantive statements about an alleged offense, consider obtaining legal advice. Statements made during an investigation may later become evidence in a criminal proceeding.

Can Criminal Charges Be Dismissed at a Preliminary Hearing?

Yes, in appropriate circumstances. A charge may be dismissed if the Commonwealth fails to establish the required prima facie case.

However, dismissal at a preliminary hearing does not necessarily prevent the Commonwealth from pursuing further proceedings when permitted by law.

Will My Criminal Case Go to Trial?

Not necessarily. Some cases are resolved through negotiated pleas, diversionary programs where available, or other proceedings. Others proceed to trial.

Whether to accept a proposed plea agreement or proceed to trial is a significant decision that should be informed by the evidence, applicable law, potential sentencing exposure, and the client’s objectives.

How Much Does Criminal Defense Representation Cost?

Legal fees depend on the nature and complexity of the charges, the anticipated scope of representation, and the work required.

Levenson Law Firm discusses the proposed scope of representation and applicable fee arrangements before entering into an engagement agreement.

Can a Criminal Conviction Be Removed From My Record?

Some Pennsylvania criminal records may qualify for expungement, limited access, or other relief under applicable law.

Eligibility depends on the offense, disposition, criminal history, and statutory requirements. Not every conviction can be expunged.

Speak With a Washington Criminal Defense Lawyer

If you are under investigation or facing criminal charges in Washington, Pennsylvania, or elsewhere in Washington County, Levenson Law Firm provides individualized representation focused on the evidence, the law, and your circumstances.

Amy Jones works directly with clients to evaluate the allegations, explain their options, and develop an appropriate defense strategy. The firm maintains a selective caseload and emphasizes careful preparation, candid advice, and professional judgment.

Request a Confidential Consultation or call Amy Jones directly at (917) 406-7165.