Blog: Criminal Defense
- What Happens If I’m Charged With the Wrong Crime?
Mar 18, 2021
If you have been charged with the wrong crime, then it is a good idea for you to contact a criminal law defense attorney. Your attorney can defend you in court. There are also several things that you can do in order to help your attorney. Avoid Incriminating Yourself It is not a good idea for you to argue with law enforcement about the accuracy of the charges. If you do this, then you will...Read More - What Do The Police Need To Get A Warrant?
Feb 27, 2021
Gathering evidence and solving crimes can be a complex process. Therefore, law enforcement agencies often have numerous tools at their disposal. However, in many cases, such tools must be used by procedure and law. One such mechanism a criminal lawyer urges you to familiarize yourself with is known as a search warrant. Search Warrant Overview A search warrant is a legally-binding document authorizing the obtaining authorities to conduct a thorough search of a specific residence...Read More - What Are My Options If I Believe a Police Officer is Targeting Me?
Feb 12, 2021
It goes without saying that police officers are supposed to be the “good guys.” Most people picture loyal, dedicated civil servants who, while not always paid a fortune, are ready to put their lives on the line in dangerous situations to protect and serve the community. This idealistic image of the profession is admirable and, in many cases, accurate. However, the reality of any human institution is that individuals within it will occasionally fall short...Read More - What is the Penalty for Being Held in Contempt of Court?
Jan 27, 2021
Contempt of court is a grave legal concept that empowers judges to maintain the integrity, decorum, and authority of their courtrooms. At its most fundamental level, contempt refers to any act of defiance, disrespect, or willful disobedience directed at a judge or a court order. While the term is often used broadly, the legal implications and potential penalties vary significantly depending on the nature of the act and the specific goals of the court. When...Read More - What Is False Imprisonment?
Jan 12, 2021
False imprisonment is when a legal entity deliberately restrains another entity’s freedom of movement without any legal authority or justification whatsoever. A prime example of a false imprisonment situation is the “gun to the head” trope; if someone is holding a gun to your head, demanding you to do something or face the consequence of death, they are limiting your freedom of movement without legal authority. False imprisonment can be a criminal or civil issue...Read More - How Do Jury Selections Work?
Dec 16, 2020
The American judicial system allows everyday citizens to determine the fates of their fellow peers standing on trial for civil or criminal offenses. Individuals chosen for such a responsibility serve on ruling entities known as juries. William Brennan, a Philadelphia criminal lawyer, wants prospective clients and informed parties to realize jury selection is subject to a specific process. Jury Overview Juries can be called upon to hear civil cases like slip and fall accidents, major...Read More - What Happens if I’m Accused Of Being An Accomplice To A Crime?
Dec 9, 2020
You might believe criminal activities are perpetrated by one or a handful of malfeasance. However, other subjects known as accomplices could also play a significant role in executing such acts. William Brennan, a criminal defense attorney in Doylestown, PA, stresses that a legal concept known as accomplice liability is a major offense that could carry serious penalties. The Definition Of An Accomplice Pennsylvania law enforcement agencies might charge you as an accomplice if said organizations...Read More - If the Police Say They Can Drop My Charges if I Cooperate, Can I Trust Them?
Nov 25, 2020
When you’re facing an arrest, understandably, you want to have the charges lessened or dropped. This can be used against you, however, and police may use that to cause you to act out of desperation. If they’re trying to make a bargain of some kind, never take their words at face value. Exercise Caution Cops are not legally obligated to tell the truth. The nature of their job incentivizes them to make an arrest, not...Read More - Can Anyone Be Called as a Witness During My Trial?
Nov 18, 2020
As you’re preparing to go to trial there are many unknowns and uncertainties you may be wondering about. One of those things is probably who will be called to testify against you. There are three main categories of witnesses, and understanding what they are and what purpose their testimony serves can give you a better idea of what to expect in court. Lay Witness A lay witness, also often called an ‘eyewitness’, is the most...Read More - How Do Bail Hearings Work?
Oct 14, 2020
The concept of ‘bail’ echoes our legal system’s premise that everyone is innocent until proven guilty. That is to say, no punishment can be given until a crime has been proven. The idea is to keep someone out of jail while awaiting their trial, as being confined in a cell for months can be construed as a form of punishment. Preliminary Arraignment Bail hearings are often referred to as ‘preliminary arraignments’, which occur after charges...Read More