Best Criminal Defense Attorneys in Allentown

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency line of the Allentown Police Department is 610-437-7751.

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

  You must go to the Traffic door on the College St side of the 425 Hamilton St building to obtain a copy of an incident or accident report from the Allentown Police Department. Each copy costs $15 and can be paid using cash, a check, or money order. Remember to bring a valid photo ID issued by the government.

• What are the most common physical crimes in Allentown?

  The following are the most common physical crimes in Allentown:

  • Assault: This crime typically occurs once an emotional disagreement turns violent.
  • Murder: Depending on the facts, prosecutors may file a variety of homicide charges.
  • DUI: A conviction for Driving Under the Influence often results in more than just fines and probation.

• What are the most typical virtual crimes in Allentown?

  White-collar crimes like embezzlement, forgery, and other financial criminalities involving a breach of trust are among the common virtual offenses in Allentown. Child pornography and theft cases such as shoplifting, passing a bad check, and defrauding a bank are also considered virtual crimes in Allentown.

• In Allentown, what is the distinction between a felony and a misdemeanor?

  In Allentown and the rest of Pennsylvania, a misdemeanor is punishable by up to 5 years in prison, while a felony is punishable by more than seven years in prison. The federal definition of a felony, however, differs from the Pennsylvania definition. Under federal law, a felony is any crime punishable by more than two years in prison. In addition, a Pennsylvania Misdemeanor One is considered a felony.

• In Allentown, how many times can you appeal a criminal case?

  The number of times you can appeal your criminal case in Allentown is determined by the number of superior courts that issued the final ruling. If your initial appeal is unsuccessful, you can request that a larger panel of judges from the Court review your case. The initial appeal briefing process will also be followed for this plea. You may next petition the Pennsylvania Supreme Court if the appeal is unsuccessful.

• In Allentown, how long should a criminal appeal take?

  The majority of criminal appeal cases in Allentown take 12 to 16 months. If you receive your transcript on time, it usually takes 4-6 months to prepare the record and 3-5 months to brief. The court will then decide whether to appeal your case, which typically takes six to twelve months.

• 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.