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Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyers

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Experienced Criminal Defense Attorneys Protecting Your Rights and Future

Facing criminal charges can be one of the most frightening and overwhelming experiences of your life. Whether you're charged with a misdemeanor or felony, the consequences can affect your freedom, employment, reputation, and future opportunities for years to come. You need an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney who will fight aggressively to protect your rights and minimize the impact on your life.

At Schuster Law, our criminal defense lawyers have decades of experience defending clients against all types of criminal charges throughout Delaware County and southeastern Pennsylvania. We understand the local courts, prosecutors, and law enforcement agencies, giving us valuable insights that can make the difference between conviction and acquittal, jail time and freedom.

Call (610) 892-9200 for a confidential consultation with experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys.

Why You Need Experienced Criminal Defense Representation

The Pennsylvania criminal justice system is complex and unforgiving. Prosecutors have extensive resources and experience, and they're focused on securing convictions. Without skilled legal representation, you're at a significant disadvantage. Here's why professional criminal defense representation is crucial:

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Protect Your Constitutional Rights

Criminal defense attorneys ensure your constitutional rights are protected throughout the legal process, including your right to remain silent, right to counsel, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Navigate Complex Legal Procedures

The criminal justice system involves strict deadlines, complex filing requirements, and intricate legal procedures that can make or break your case.

Challenge Evidence and Procedures

Experienced attorneys know how to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case, challenge improperly obtained evidence, and expose procedural violations that could lead to dismissed charges.

Negotiate Favorable Plea Agreements

When appropriate, skilled negotiators can work with prosecutors to reduce charges, minimize penalties, or explore alternative sentencing options.

Provide Aggressive Trial Representation

If your case goes to trial, you need attorneys with proven courtroom experience who can present compelling defenses and cross-examine witnesses effectively.

Criminal Charges We Defend

Our Pennsylvania criminal defense attorneys handle a wide range of misdemeanor and felony charges, including:

DUI and Traffic Offenses

  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
  • Driving While Impaired (DWI)
  • Reckless driving and traffic violations
  • License suspension and revocation matters
  • Repeat DUI offenses

Pennsylvania DUI penalties can include jail time, heavy fines, and license suspension. We fight to minimize these consequences.

Violent Crimes

  • Assault and battery
  • Domestic violence charges
  • Robbery and armed robbery
  • Weapons charges
  • Homicide and manslaughter

Theft and Property Crimes

  • Theft and shoplifting
  • Burglary and breaking and entering
  • Robbery
  • Fraud and white-collar crimes
  • Vandalism and property damage

Drug Crimes

  • Drug possession
  • Drug trafficking and distribution
  • Prescription drug offenses
  • Marijuana charges
  • Drug paraphernalia

White-Collar Crimes

  • Embezzlement
  • Financial fraud
  • Identity theft
  • Computer crimes
  • Tax evasion

Summary Offenses

  • Disorderly conduct
  • Public intoxication
  • Trespassing
  • Harassment
  • Noise violations

Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Process

Understanding the criminal defense process can help you make informed decisions about your case:

Investigation and Charges

Law enforcement investigates alleged crimes and, if they believe they have sufficient evidence, file charges with the district attorney's office.

Arraignment

You'll be formally informed of the charges against you and asked to enter a plea. This is when having an attorney becomes crucial.

Pre-Trial Motions and Discovery

Your attorney will review evidence, file motions to suppress improperly obtained evidence, and work to identify weaknesses in the prosecution's case.

Plea Negotiations

Many cases are resolved through plea negotiations, where your attorney works with prosecutors to reduce charges or penalties.

Trial

If no acceptable plea agreement can be reached, your case will go to trial, where your attorney will present your defense before a judge or jury.

Sentencing

If convicted, your attorney will advocate for the most favorable sentence possible, potentially including alternative sentencing options.

Consequences of Criminal Convictions in Pennsylvania

Criminal convictions can have far-reaching consequences beyond immediate penalties:

Immediate Penalties

  • Jail or prison time
  • Heavy fines and court costs
  • Probation and community service
  • License suspension
  • Mandatory counseling or treatment programs

Long-Term Consequences

  • Permanent criminal record
  • Employment difficulties
  • Housing restrictions
  • Professional license issues
  • Immigration consequences for non-citizens
  • Loss of voting rights for felonies
  • Difficulty obtaining loans or credit
  • Impact on child custody and visitation

Defense Strategies We Use

Our experienced criminal defense attorneys employ various strategies to protect our clients:

Constitutional Challenges

We examine whether your constitutional rights were violated during the investigation, arrest, or charging process.

Evidence Suppression

If evidence was obtained illegally or improperly, we file motions to have it excluded from your case.

Witness Credibility Issues

We investigate witness backgrounds and motivations, challenging their credibility when appropriate.

Alternative Theories

We explore alternative explanations for the alleged crimes and present evidence supporting these theories.

Mitigation Evidence

We gather evidence about your character, circumstances, and background to minimize potential penalties.

Procedural Defenses

We identify any procedural errors or violations that could result in dismissed charges.

Why Choose Schuster Law for Criminal Defense

Local Expertise

Our attorneys have extensive experience in Delaware County and southeastern Pennsylvania courts, with deep knowledge of local prosecutors, judges, and procedures.

Proven Track Record

We've successfully defended clients against all types of criminal charges, securing dismissals, acquittals, and favorable plea agreements.

Personalized Attention

Unlike large criminal defense firms, we provide individual attention and direct access to experienced attorneys throughout your case.

Aggressive Representation

We fight aggressively to protect your rights and achieve the best possible outcome for your situation.

Available When You Need Us

Criminal charges don't wait for business hours. We're available for emergency consultations and jail visits.

Pennsylvania Criminal Defense FAQ

Should I talk to police without an attorney?

No. Exercise your right to remain silent and request an attorney immediately. Anything you say can and will be used against you.

What's the difference between a misdemeanor and felony?

Misdemeanors typically carry penalties of up to one year in jail, while felonies can result in more than one year in prison. Felonies have more severe long-term consequences.

Can I represent myself in criminal court?

While you have the right to self-representation, it's strongly discouraged. Criminal law is complex, and the stakes are too high to risk inadequate representation.

What if I'm guilty? Should I still hire an attorney?

Yes. Even if you believe you're guilty, an experienced attorney can often reduce charges, minimize penalties, or identify defenses you weren't aware of.

How much does criminal defense representation cost?

We offer competitive rates and payment plans. The cost of experienced representation is minimal compared to the potential consequences of a criminal conviction.

Time Is Critical in Criminal Cases

Pennsylvania has strict deadlines for filing motions, challenging evidence, and preparing defenses. The sooner you contact an experienced criminal defense attorney, the better your chances of a favorable outcome. Evidence can disappear, witnesses' memories fade, and important deadlines can pass.

Don't let fear or uncertainty prevent you from protecting your rights and future. Every day you delay seeking legal representation could harm your case.

Confidential Criminal Defense Consultation

If you've been charged with a crime or are under investigation in Pennsylvania, contact Schuster Law immediately for a confidential consultation. Our experienced criminal defense attorneys will:

  • Review the details of your charges
  • Explain your legal rights and options
  • Discuss potential defenses and strategies
  • Answer all your questions
  • Begin working immediately to protect your interests

Remember: Everything you tell us is protected by attorney-client privilege.

Call (610) 892-9200 Now for Emergency Criminal Defense Representation

Available 24/7 for Criminal Defense Emergencies Free Initial Consultation Experienced Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Lawyers

Don't face criminal charges alone. Contact Schuster Law today and let our experienced criminal defense team fight for your rights, your freedom, and your future.

Do You Qualify?
  • Details
  • Incident
  • Aftermath

Free Case Evaluation

(610) 892-9200

THE SCHUSTER LAW APPROACH

1
INVESTIGATE YOUR CLAIM
We leave no stone unturned in our detailed investigation of your case. 
2
REPRESENT YOU IN YOUR CLAIM
Our action plan maps out an aggressive legal strategy to get you justice in your claim.
3
HELP YOU GET YOUR LIFE BACK
Have a peace of mind
and return to the life
you’ve missed.
The Disability Guys Pennsylvania

WHAT OUR CLIENT SAY ABOUT SCHUSTER LAW

testimonial 1
Highly recommend Justin Bernstein. He has been amazing, and very helpful through Avery traumatic time in my life. Always there when you need him!
 
Shannan Lamplugh,

A client of Schuster Law

 
 
testimonial 2

My husband and I were in a car accident and our car got t-boned. Andrew Valentin was the lawyer we chose to represent us. Andrew fought on our behalf with the other party's insurance company, making sure everything was made right. Between regular check-ins on us and follow through on the case, Andrew made sure we were well taken care of.

Laura VM
A Car Accident Client of Schuster Law

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