Can You be Charged with Statutory Rape if They Lie About Their Age?
Statutory Rape is a serious crime in Pennsylvania. Even when the sex is consensual, an adult who engages in sexual relations with a minor faces as many as 40 years in prison and $25,000 in fines. But what if the minor lied about their age? If you were under the impression they were an adult, is it still illegal? Like with many legal queries, it depends on the specific situation. That’s why...Read More
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What’s the Difference Between Rape and Sexual Assault in Pennsylvania?
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...Read More
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Are Sex Offenders Required To Notify Neighbors and Employers?
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...Read More
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Does Pennsylvania Have Romeo and Juliet Laws?
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...Read More
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What to Expect at a Sentencing Hearing
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...Read More
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What Does it Mean to Get a Federal Crime Expunged?
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...Read More
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Differences Between Theft, Robbery & Burglary in Pennsylvania
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,...Read More
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The Most Common Crimes Around the Holidays
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...Read More
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Will Dismissed Charges Show Up on my Record?
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...Read More
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What are the Types of Probation in PA?
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...Read More
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Everything You Need to Know About Disorderly Conduct in PA
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?...Read More
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What Factors Can Reduce My Criminal Charges in PA?
Anyone arrested for a serious crime hopes for a positive outcome if they’re convicted. But few actually know what factors are taken into consideration to determine a criminal sentence. Fortunately, Pennsylvania law requires judges to recognize various facts and situations unrelated to whether or not the defendant is actually guilty of a crime, but that could be grounds for a more lenient...Read More
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