Blog: Criminal Defense
- What’s the Difference Between Rape and Sexual Assault in Pennsylvania?
Mar 6, 2019
In many states, the terms “rape” and “sexual assault” are used interchangeably, but in Pennsylvania, there are important differences between the two. The one thing both crimes do have in common, however, is that they can lead to several years behind bars. That’s why it’s important to know how both offenses are classified, so you can handle your case in the most effective way possible. Our experienced attorneys are here to help you fight your...Read More - Are Sex Offenders Required To Notify Neighbors and Employers?
Feb 1, 2019
Most people know that Pennsylvania’s Sex Offender Registry is available to the public online. Thanks to Megan’s Law, law enforcement authorities are required to identify sex offenders to the general public, tracking their whereabouts to protect individuals from victimization within their community. But with this information accessible to anyone at any time, are sex offenders required to notify their neighbors and employers of their criminal history directly? We’ll explain the disclosure requirements for your community...Read More - Does Pennsylvania Have Romeo and Juliet Laws?
Jan 29, 2019
It’s not unusual two young adults or teens to become sexually active, but an adult molesting a child is reprehensible. A distinction between the two situations seems obvious, but in many states across the US, there’s a fine line legally between a mutual decision and abusive actions. In many cases, Romeo and Juliet Laws reduce or eliminate the penalty of statutory offenses. If you or someone you know have been accused of statutory sexual assault...Read More - What to Expect at a Sentencing Hearing
Jan 20, 2019
When the sentencing hearings of Bill Cosby or Larry Nassar occurred, everyone saw the headlines. Through photos, videos and recordings, media coverage gave the country a closer look at this integral part of our criminal justice system. But there’s a lot more to know when you’re the one on trial. If you’ve been convicted of a crime, here’s what you can expect at a sentencing hearing in Pennsylvania. What is a Sentencing Hearing? When a...Read More - What Does it Mean to Get a Federal Crime Expunged?
Jan 8, 2019
Being a convicted felon is a label that many will have to live with the rest of their lives. A criminal record is something potential employers, educational institutions and housing facilities all have access to, creating significant challenges in your future. But what if there was a way to have your record wiped clean? Well, there is. It’s a process called Expungement. What Does it Mean to Get a Crime Expunged? An expungement is a...Read More - Differences Between Theft, Robbery & Burglary in Pennsylvania
Dec 17, 2018
The holidays are the most joyful time of year; however, all the good cheer, great food and gift giving may be a distraction from the risks the season can also bring. Break-ins, porch pirates and pickpockets are more popular than ever this time of year as the hustle and bustle of the holidays can leave us vulnerable to thieves. While theft, robbery and burglary are often used interchangeably, they’re actually very different offenses when defined...Read More - The Most Common Crimes Around the Holidays
Dec 5, 2018
The holiday season is universally anticipated as a time of joy, family gatherings, generosity, and celebration. Yet, beneath the festive lights and seasonal cheer, the period from late November through the New Year presents a distinct set of social pressures and environmental stressors. The combination of financial strain, increased alcohol consumption, crowded shopping environments, and the frantic pace of “getting everything done” can lead even well-intentioned individuals to act rashly. In Pennsylvania, law enforcement agencies...Read More - Will Dismissed Charges Show Up on my Record?
Nov 20, 2018
Being arrested is one of the most stressful situations a person can experience. Not only is it an embarrassing process, but can also lead to an array of subsequent consequences in your work and personal life. And even if your charges are eventually dismissed due to insufficient evidence or a not guilty verdict, you may still not feel complete relief. Will these dismissed charges show up on my record and background checks? Will they affect...Read More - What are the Types of Probation in PA?
Nov 5, 2018
When you’re convicted of a crime, probation is commonly part of the sentence. But the terms of probation are not one-size-fits all. And with the punishments for breaking probation being so severe in Pennsylvania, it’s crucial to have the most experienced Philadelphia criminal defense attorney helping you understand the specific conditions of your probation. If you read our blog on probation violations, then you know that a probation sentence allows an offender to remain in...Read More - Everything You Need to Know About Disorderly Conduct in PA
Oct 5, 2018
While most disorderly conduct charges are considered a summary offense (or the most minor type of criminal offense in Pennsylvania) it doesn’t make facing the penalty any less scary. If you or someone you know has been charged with disorderly conduct in PA, here’s everything you need to know to handle your situation and minimize the resulting consequences. What Does Disorderly Conduct Mean? Disorderly conduct is a criminal charge that doesn’t pertain to any one...Read More