Frequently Asked Questions

Q:  Do I really have the right to remain silent?

A:  Yes. Your right to remain silent is protected by the US and Pennsylvania Constitution.

Q: What does "Burden of Proof' mean?

A:  In a criminal case in Pennsylvania, the Office of the District Attorney has the burden of proving all criminal charges beyond a reasonable doubt. If the district attorney is unable to meet this burden, the constitution requires that the person(s) deciding the evidence in the case must return a verdict of not guilty.

Q:  If I was just convicted, can I appeal?

A:  Yes. You do have the right to appeal. Please see our appellate section for important deadlines.

Q:  What does it mean to have evidence suppressed?

A:  In attempting to meet their burden of proof, it is not uncommon for the evidence that attempted to be produced in court, to have been obtained in violation of the Defendant's constitutional rights. In those particular instances, such evidence collected by an unreasonable search and seizure is a violation of a defendant's Fourth Amendment rights, and may be suppressed.

Q:  What forms of payment do you accept?

A:  Cash, Credit Cards and Checks

Q:  What do I do if I get arrested?

A:  Remain silent. Do not attempt to "talk you way out" of the situation. Contact an experienced criminal defense attorney immediately. Do not talk to anyone except your attorney. Do not share your paperwork with anyone except your attorney.

Q:  Can I represent myself?

A:  Absolutely. You can represent yourself and attempt to defend yourself against the allegations charged against you or try to negotiate a plea bargain.  However, the criminal defense and plea negotiation can be very tricky. You could possibly end up accepting a harsher punishment then what the prosecution could actually prove. This is why it's important to have a criminal defense attorney to review your case, give you your options from a position of experience.  Your freedom is too important to gamble on your case.