Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Pittsburgh

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?

  To access the non-emergency number for the local police station in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, you can either dial 311 or call the ten-digit number 412-255-2621.

• Where can I get a copy of police reports for incidents related to my case in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania?

  To obtain a copy of a police report, you can visit the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police Central Records and Reporting Unit (CRRU) located at 660 First Avenue, 3rd floor, Pittsburgh, PA 15219. The office is open from Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 3:30 PM. A fee of $15 is required, payable by check or money order.

• Should you hire a criminal defense attorney for a criminal charge in Pittsburgh?

  Yes. Hiring a criminal defense attorney in Pittsburgh can help you protect your rights and minimize the negative consequences of criminal charges. A good criminal defense attorney can provide you with legal guidance and demystify the process for you and your loved ones. They can review your case, learn about the circumstances of the charge, and build the strongest and most compelling defense for you.

• What type of cases do criminal defense attorneys handle in Pittsburgh?

  Criminal defense attorneys handle a wide range of cases in Pittsburgh, including DUI defense, drug charges, sex crimes, weapons charges, fraud, and more. Whether you're facing a misdemeanor or a felony charge, a criminal defense attorney can provide you with legal counsel and representation to help uphold your rights.

• Should you consent to a police search of your property in Pittsburgh?

  No. If approached by the police in Pittsburgh for a property search, it's advised to decline consent unless they have a warrant, as illegally obtained evidence may not be admissible in court. Some situations, however, allow police to search private property without a warrant, such as visible evidence in plain sight.

• What is the difference between a felony and a misdemeanor in Pittsburgh?

  A criminal defense attorney in Pittsburgh would classify crimes as misdemeanors or felonies based on their severity. Misdemeanors, like first-time DUI offenses, thefts, or simple assaults, have lesser penalties. Felonies, such as murder, sexual assault, or aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, are more serious crimes. Both misdemeanors and felonies are further categorized as first-degree, second-degree, or third-degree.

• What should you do if you are contacted by law enforcement or investigators in Pittsburgh?

  It is in your best interest not to talk to the police without your Pittsburgh defense attorney present. They may ask leading questions that could hurt your case or be used against you out of context. You shouldn’t talk back to the police or become argumentative because that could lead to other problems. Instead, contact an attorney for legal guidance and representation.

• What does a criminal defense lawyer do?

  Criminal defense attorneys provide help to those facing misdemeanor or felony criminal charges. The attorney will research the circumstances surrounding the charge and investigate the case on behalf of the client. This may involve talking to police, interviewing witnesses, determining a plea, and assessing possible sentences. With this information, the defense attorney can negotiate plea deals or navigate a court case on behalf of the client. In some cases, the attorney may get a case dismissed entirely, a reduction in bail or jail time, or probation or community service instead of prison.

• How do I know if I need a criminal attorney?

  Any criminal charge that could result in a prison sentence requires the help of a criminal defense lawyer. This applies to both misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

  Misdemeanors

  • Petty theft
  • Public intoxication
  • Simple assault
  • Disorderly conduct
  • Vandalism
  • Reckless driving

  Felonies

  • Murder
  • Rape
  • Kidnapping
  • Aggravated assault
  • Specific types of fraud
  • Possession of certain types of drugs

• What steps should I take after being charged with a crime?

  The first thing to do after being charged with a crime is to contact a criminal defense attorney. It is best to hire a defense attorney as soon as possible after being released from arrest, and before an arraignment takes place. The attorney will explain charges in detail, and possible consequences, to help you decide whether a plea deal or a jury trial is the best option. Most attorneys offer free consultations to discuss the circumstances of a criminal case and how they're able to assist. Speaking with a number of defense attorneys before hiring one can increase the likelihood of finding the right fit, and getting the best defense possible.

• What if I can’t afford a criminal defense lawyer?

  All Americans are afforded the right to hire an attorney to act as a defense in a legal case. However, not everyone can afford one. If an attorney isn’t in a defendant’s budget, and the defendant’s income meets designated state or local thresholds, the court system will provide a public defender. This attorney usually works on cases pro bono or without any fees paid by the defendant. Many public defenders have a high caseload, which can limit the amount of time they are able to devote to each case. In most situations, hiring a dedicated criminal defense lawyer ensures the best outcome. This is particularly true in more serious felony cases that can result in a significant prison sentence without the involvement of a skilled, experienced defense attorney.

• Why hire a criminal defense attorney?

  Working with a criminal defense attorney is the best way to minimize the ramifications of committing or being accused of a crime. Criminal attorneys thoroughly investigate the circumstances surrounding a case to prove innocence or inspire reasonable doubt in a jury. Criminal defense lawyers also are better prepared to negotiate with the prosecutors. Due to the high cost and logistics involved with taking a case to trial, many prosecutors are willing to reduce sentences in exchange for avoiding a jury trial. An experienced criminal attorney understands what would be a reasonable deal for a specific criminal charge, and will negotiate it on behalf of the defendant.

• Are legal fees for criminal defense tax deductible?

  Whether legal fees from a criminal case can be deducted on a tax return depends on the circumstances. If criminal charges pertain to activities related to a trade or business, attorney fees can be deducted on a business tax return, as they are considered an expense associated with the normal course of business. However, personal legal fees cannot be deducted.