The decision to accept a plea deal is one laden with complexity and personal implications, particularly in Pennsylvania. When faced with criminal charges, understanding the pros and cons of plea bargaining is crucial as it could significantly impact your life. A plea deal, also known as a plea agreement or plea bargain, involves the defendant […]

Duress is a concept in criminal law referring to situations where individuals are forced to commit criminal acts under threat or violence. The state of Pennsylvania, like many other states, recognizes duress as a potential defense to some criminal charges. However, the predicament arises when this defense is applied to severe charges like homicide. A […]

Thanks to TV police dramas, most Americans have heard the Miranda Rights spoken aloud more times than they can count.  You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can and will be used against you in a court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford an attorney, […]

Pennsylvania and federal statutes define a wide range of crimes that relate to firearms. Thousands of individuals in Pennsylvania face prosecution for gun-related crimes annually. Those convicted can receive significant sentences that include imprisonment, fines, and loss of their civil liberties (including the right to possess firearms).  Here is a review of the top five […]

When you are charged with a crime, the prosecutor has the burden of proving that you are guilty of committing that crime. The police collect evidence that supports that burden of proof. The digital times we live in give the police access to other avenues of evidence, such as finding when and where suspects were […]