Pennsylvania Criminal Law

Pennsylvania Criminal Law

In Pennsylvania criminal law, the suit is initiated by the state or federal government through a prosecutor rather than being initiated by the victim, as it is in civil law. Plaintiffs in a civil law suit only need to show by a preponderance of the evidence that a defendant is 51% or more liable (responsible) for the damages. But, the prosecutor in a criminal law case has to prove to the judge or jury "beyond a reasonable doubt" that the defendant is guilty of the crime charged.

Criminal law involves prosecution by the government of a person for an act that has been classified as a crime. Civil cases, on the other hand, involve individuals and organizations seeking to resolve legal disputes. In a criminal case, the state, through a prosecutor, initiates the suit, while in a civil case the victim brings the suit. Persons convicted of a crime may be incarcerated, fined, or both. However, persons found liable in a civil case may only have to give up property or pay money, but are not incarcerated.

A "crime" is any act or omission (of an act) in violation of a public law forbidding or commanding it. Though there are some common law crimes, most crimes in the United States are established by local, state, and federal governments. Criminal laws vary significantly from state to state. There is, however, a Model Penal Code (MPC) which serves as a good starting place to gain an understanding of the basic structure of criminal liability.

If you’ve been charged with a crime, call Attorney Timothy Trott for a free, no-obligation consultation, (610) 344-0300.

DUI, DRUG OFFENSES, ASSAULT
FELONIES, MISDEMEANORS,
THEFT, FRAUD
SUMMARY, TRAFFIC,
JUVENILE,
UNDERAGE DRINKING

Find out your rights. Find out how the process works. Preliminary hearings, ARD, Agreements, Pre-Trial and Trial Representation

Pennsylvania DUI

CHARGED WITH DRIVING UNDER THE INFLUENCE OR SOME OTHER CRIME?

Similar to other drunk driving offenses, a person is guilty of DUI in Pennsylvania when he or she drives or is in actual physical control of a motor vehicle and is under the influence of alcoholic beverages or any chemical or controlled substance to the extent that his or her mental faculties are impaired or when his or her blood alcohol level (BAC) is above the legal limit for the state.

DUI and other offenses involving the operation of a vehicle while intoxicated are criminal law matters, which could potentially incur a felony conviction and possibly a prison sentence, depending on how serious the charges are. Whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense, you should contact a DUI attorney immediately if you are arrested.

Accelerated Rehabilitative Disposition (ARD) is way for first time offenders to reduce your license suspension, and other penalties, avoid a criminal record and have your record wiped out.

There are other programs for second time offenders which can reduce penalties and jail time.

We will also help you with problems of unlawful stops, illegal search and seizure, trial and plea agreements.

Timothy J. Trott
Attorney-at-Law
120 North Church Street
West Chester, Pennsylvania 19380
Telephone: (610) 344-0300
E-mail: TTrottlaw@aol.com
Website: www.TTrottlaw.com