Best Criminal Defense Lawyers in Scranton, PA

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency matters, dial 570-348-4130 to contact the Scranton, Pennsylvania, Police Department.

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

  Scranton, Pennsylvania residents who need a copy of an incident report may request one by accessing an online database at https://secure.coplogic.com/rar/en/filing/showdisclaimer?dynparam=1678422649647. The cost of a police report for an incident is $20.00. Whoever has been a victim of the crime will not be required to pay a fee.

• How long does a sex offender have to register in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

  Scranton, Pennsylvania, has three tiers of mandatory registration for anyone convicted of sex crimes: 15 years (Tier 1), 25 years (Tier 2), and life (Tier 3) depending on the severity of the offense committed. Additionally, under Megan's Law, codified at 42 Pa.C.S. 9799.32(1) and 9799.67(1), all residents, transients, employees, and students who have been convicted, pled guilty to, or adjudicated are required to register with the publicly available website operated by the State Police.

• What constitutes a criminal charge for stalking in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

  In Scranton, Pennsylvania, stalking is defined as the persistent and intrusive following of a person, the investigation of that person, or administering unwanted communication to a person intending to cause fear, other forms of emotional distress, or bodily harm. For a first-degree misdemeanor to a third-degree felony stalking conviction, offenders can face up to $15,000 in fines and 2.5-7 years in jail.

• In a criminal illegal possession prosecution in Scranton, Pennsylvania, what types of weapons would be considered offensive?

  In Scranton, Pennsylvania, Title 18 Pa.C.S.A. Crimes and Offenses 908 defines offensive weapons as implements for inflicting serious bodily injury which serves no common lawful purpose. These weapons include (1) Firearms designed for concealment or silent discharge, including machine guns and sawed-off shotguns; (2) Explosives such as grenades; (3) Blades or other cutting instruments, including those that can be automatically exposed by a switch, push-button, or spring mechanism; and (4) Electric weapons like stun guns or batons, and tasers.

• Does one need to wield an offensive weapon to face criminal charges in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

  No, not exactly. But even if a person may be arrested and prosecuted even if they are not using or carrying the weapon at the time of their arrest. In Scranton, an individual commits a misdemeanor of the first degree in violation of Pennsylvania Statutes of Chapter 18, Section 908 if he fixes, sells, or otherwise trades in, uses, or possesses any offensive weapon, except as allowed by law. This crime is punishable by up to 5 years in jail.

• What constitutes an organized retail theft in Scranton, Pennsylvania?

  Organized retail theft is a criminal enterprise of at least two people. In Scranton, Pennsylvania, a person can be charged with committing a felony if he commits organized retail theft if the individual organizes, controls, coordinates, manages, supervises, or finances any of the activities of the organization. Under Title 18 Pa.C.S. § 3929.3, the offense is punishable by up to 10 years of imprisonment and over a $25,000 fine on account of the value of the stolen merchandise ranging from $5,000 to $20,000.

• 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.