Pennsylvania Criminal Law Blog
Pennsylvania’s aggravated DUI laws bring severe penalties
Anyone facing a charge of driving under the influence (DUI) in Pennsylvania faces an uphill battle. Pennsylvania lawmakers penalize DUI offenders with probationary driving periods and high fines. Multiple offenders face increased penalties, including mandatory jail...
Qualifying for Adult Treatment Court
Some drug and alcohol offenders in Pennsylvania may qualify for the voluntary Adult Treatment Court program in Cumberland County. Founded in 2006, this diversion program allows individuals struggling with substance use to pursue treatment while addressing their legal...
What are collateral consequences?
If you receive a conviction for a violent crime, you may experience collateral consequences. You need to know what these consequences are and how they can affect your life. According to the United States Commission on Civil Rights, collateral consequences are...
Can a criminal conviction prevent you from becoming a teacher?
You may have worked to become an educator to fulfill a lifelong dream, or you may have done so because you have an inherent desire to help children. Whatever your reasoning for becoming a teacher, you must be cautious about the way you behave if you wish to work...
What makes an arson crime worse?
Certain factors can take an existing crime and make it even worse, adding to the penalties you could suffer if a court convicts you. When it comes to the crime of arson, you may serve up to seven years in prison if charged with a third degree felony. However, acts...
Pennsylvania penalties for DUI may include IID installation
The state of Pennsylvania is serious about keeping intoxicated drivers off the road and imposes strict penalties for anyone convicted of DUI. Depending on the circumstances, the court may order installation of an ignition interlock device. What is this and how does it...
How can texting while driving impact you?
A serious vehicle crash can threaten your license, along with your legal record, and many of these accidents occur because of distracted driving. Following the letter of the law includes putting your cell phone away and focusing solely on the road. What it is...
Seeking Compensation For The Wrongfully Convicted In PA
Imagine being locked up in prison for a decade or longer after being convicted of a crime you didn’t commit. You are fortunate that the truth eventually comes out and you are freed. But what happens next? Surely, the state owes you some financial compensation for the...
What are the three types of field sobriety tests?
If you are pulled over due to suspicions that you are driving under the influence, the responding officer may request a breathalyzer test to determine your blood alcohol content. You may also be asked to complete a field sobriety test, which involves three types of...
What Can Happen When State And Federal Drug Laws Differ
The country’s marijuana laws seem to be in constant flux. While marijuana use and possession is illegal at the federal level, more and more states have legalized marijuana for medical use, recreational use or both. Other states haven’t legalized pot, but they have...
