Criminal offense arrests can be unnerving. It’s easy to feel like you have been thrown into a dark abyss with no way out, but it doesn’t have to be that way. Hiring a skilled and knowledgeable criminal defense lawyer in Philadelphia can be like finding light in the dark.
It’s essential to obtain proper counsel if you or someone you know faces criminal charges in Pennsylvania. Regardless of the offense, having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side will provide crucial assistance throughout the process, from arrest to possible acquittal.
The stakes are high when facing any criminal charge because an arrest or wrongful conviction could cause long-lasting damage to your reputation and future prospects. That is why it pays to hire a qualified Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer with expertise and dedication to ensure the best possible outcome for you.
Why Should I Hire a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer?
A skilled Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer will provide invaluable guidance to help you navigate this difficult situation and protect your constitutional rights. In addition, they will handle plea bargains that might result in reduced jail or prison time and strategies for building a strong case against the prosecution.
They Will Ensure Prosecutors Follow State Laws
The legal system can be complex and intimidating, so having someone properly defend you against any crime is important. Your criminal defense lawyer will ensure that prosecutors abide by state laws when dealing with evidence related to your case.
This means they may be able to get certain pieces of evidence thrown out if they were obtained illegally or without probable cause. Plus, your criminal defense attorney stays up-to-date on federal and state law changes pertaining to your charges.
You May Improve Your Chances of a Successful Outcome
A qualified lawyer handling your case doesn’t guarantee a successful outcome, but it may improve your chances.
Whether you’re facing misdemeanor or felony charges, hiring experienced legal counsel can boost the possibility of an acquittal or a reduced sentence.
They Will Handle Negotiations with Prosecutors On Your Behalf
In addition to protecting your rights, your criminal defense attorney will negotiate with prosecutors on your behalf. This means they will work hard to reach a plea deal or other favorable outcome in your case without going to trial.
Your attorney will carefully review the evidence against you, identify any weaknesses in the case, and use their legal expertise to negotiate with prosecutors for reduced charges, lesser penalties, or other concessions.
Having an experienced criminal defense attorney on your side can be invaluable during these negotiations. Your lawyer deeply understands the legal system, the local court processes, and the prosecutor handling your case. This means they can anticipate the arguments and strategies the prosecution may use against you and develop a strong counter-argument to protect your interests.
Finally, your attorney can explain the consequences of accepting an off by entering a guilty plea and advise you on whether it is in your best interest to accept it.
They will work in your best interest, ensuring your rights are protected, and you receive fair treatment under the law. With professional representation from a knowledgeable lawyer, you can feel confident knowing your interests are protected throughout the legal process.
For a free legal consultation, call 215.515.3360
What Should I Do First To Find a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer?
The first step in finding the correct criminal defense lawyer in Philadelphia is to understand your legal needs and find a private attorney with experience that can meet them.
Check Criminal Defense Firm Reviews
Once you’ve identified your legal needs, researching potential attorneys specializing in criminal law should be next on your list.
Read client reviews and look into their background information to ensure they’re qualified and have experience representing cases like yours.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation with a Criminal Defense Law Firm Like The Law Offices of Marni Jo Snyder
If you find a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer who could help you, schedule an initial consultation so you can get to know them better before making a decision.
This free consultation will give insight into the representation you would receive if you chose to work with that attorney.
Ask About Fees
It’s also important to inquire about fees during this meeting; some lawyers may ask for payment upfront, while others offer more flexible payment options based on the specifics of your case.
Overall, taking the time now to research and connect with a reputable Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer will pay off when it’s time for court proceedings or negotiations. Your choice of legal representation could mean all the difference between arrest and acquittal, so choose wisely.
The Arrest and Booking Process
Law enforcement officers must follow protocols to start the process when you are arrested on criminal charges in Philadelphia.
This includes booking and informing you of your rights and applicable laws restricting your movements. Depending on the type of charges faced, this could be a minor misdemeanor up to a felony offense.
Purpose of Booking
The primary purpose of booking is to record information about each arrestee, such as their name, address, date of birth, fingerprints, and photographs, into a police database. This way, the police can track individuals wanted by authorities more easily.
Additionally, it helps ensure everyone being booked has been properly identified before being released. During this time, you will also have access to a phone to contact family members, friends, and legal counsel if necessary.
An Experienced Philadelphia Defense Attorney Is Essential During Booking
During this processing stage, an experienced Philadelphia attorney is essential. Professionals know how to navigate complicated proceedings and offer invaluable guidance when dealing with law enforcement officials and understanding your rights.
With proper representation from someone knowledgeable in Pennsylvania’s statutes, you or your loved one stands an improved chance at reducing misunderstandings or bias on behalf of arresting officers. Again, this should not be taken lightly, regardless of your circumstance.
Hiring an experienced defense lawyer provides people accused with crucial resources needed to fight potential criminal convictions successfully while protecting themselves against further issues down the line. Once legally booked and processed, it’s time to consider posting bail.
Posting Bail
The transition from arrest to possible bail is critical in the criminal justice process. A criminal defense lawyer can provide invaluable advice and guidance while navigating the legal system more easily and clearly.
Here are four reasons hiring a defense lawyer in Philadelphia can make a difference in your bail hearing:
- Knowledge of local laws and court processes: Your Philadelphia defense lawyer will have extensive knowledge of the local laws and court processes. During your bail hearing, they will use that knowledge to build a strong argument in your favor and help your chances of being granted bail.
- Experience in bail hearings: Your defense lawyer will know what arguments are most effective. They can use their extensive experience to craft a compelling case in your favor and advocate for your release on bail.
- Access to resources: A defense lawyer in Philadelphia will have access to resources to help your case. This includes knowledge of pretrial services and bail bond agents in the area, expert witnesses, including area psychologists or substance abuse counselors, legal research to find cases with similar facts and arguments, and character witnesses to testify at the hearing on your behalf.
- Protection of your rights: A defense lawyer will protect your rights throughout the bail hearing process, ensuring that you are treated fairly and your rights are not violated. This can help reduce the stress and anxiety you are likely experiencing during this challenging time.
A skilled criminal defense lawyer will know which resources to use and how to use them effectively to achieve the best possible outcome for their client.
The Preliminary Hearing
The preliminary hearing begins with a judge examining whether there is enough evidence to make a formal trial necessary.
At this hearing, your attorney will negotiate on your behalf to drop or reduce charges or create more favorable agreements for you. If no agreement can be reached, both sides enter a bench trial, where the facts are presented before the court and judgment rendered.
Your attorney will prepare and present persuasive arguments demonstrating why the police evidence does not support the accusation against you. They may also cross-examine witnesses and use their constitutional law knowledge to protect your rights throughout this phase.
The preliminary hearing helps your legal counsel spot inconsistencies between what was stated during police interrogations versus written documentation or other forms of proof.
Your criminal defense lawyer will ensure all aspects of the case have been properly addressed and considered when deciding how best to proceed with your defense.
The goal is to ensure that regardless of whether you’re offered a plea agreement or go through a formal trial, you are armed with the relevant information you need to make the right decision.
Investigate and Prepare Your Defense
The criminal justice system can be intimidating, but you have a fighting chance with a strong criminal defense team.
Hiring a qualified local attorney is essential to protect your rights throughout the criminal court process. A qualified attorney will investigate all aspects of your alleged crime and prepare any necessary motions or evidence for court proceedings.
The following table outlines the steps your criminal defense lawyer may take to investigate and prepare an effective defense:
| Step | Description |
| 1. | Conduct an initial case assessment to determine the strengths and weaknesses of the prosecution’s case against you. |
| 2. | Gather all relevant documents and evidence related to your case, including police reports, witness statements, and physical evidence. |
| 3. | Interview potential witnesses and gather any additional evidence that may be relevant to your case. |
| 4. | Review and analyze all evidence to identify any weaknesses in the prosecution’s case against you. |
| 5. | Consult with legal experts, such as forensic specialists or private investigators, to assist in building your defense. |
| 6. | Develop a strategy for your defense, including plea bargaining, negotiating a settlement, or going to trial. |
| 7. | Work with you to prepare your defense and ensure that you are fully prepared for court appearances and any potential trial. |
| 8. | Represent you in court, argue your case before a judge and/or jury, and work to secure the best possible outcome for you. |
Please note that this is a general overview of the steps a criminal attorney may take to investigate and prepare your defense. The specific steps involved may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the case.
Plea Deals and Alternative Sentencing
Regarding criminal defense in Philadelphia, negotiating a favorable plea bargain can be invaluable. A skilled attorney understands the intricacies of crafting a deal that works for their client while protecting them from lengthy jail time and other penalties.
When negotiating with the prosecution, they can provide insight into how various government programs may benefit their client. Alternative sentencing options like community service also present themselves when exploring different avenues of resolution.
These alternative sentences allow individuals charged with felony crimes to serve their sentence without going through traditional incarceration.
This allows them to stay connected with family and maintain employment opportunities while taking responsibility for their actions.
In addition, many resources available through the court system help connect defendants with social services, mental health counseling, or educational training, all of which aid individuals in making better decisions moving forward.
Utilizing these resources, you can rebuild your life after facing felony charges.
Filing Motions in Your Philadelphia Court
Filing motions is a key strategy in criminal defense law. A knowledgeable attorney will file the proper motion and the correct time to protect your legal interests.
In Philadelphia, hiring an experienced criminal defense lawyer who knows which strategies (for example, suppression of evidence for an illegal search) are appropriate for your case and how best to utilize them is essential.
When seeking legal representation, look for a certified domestic violence defense lawyer, sex crimes attorney, or one that specializes in areas related to your case.
This ensures they have comprehensive knowledge of relevant laws and procedures specific to your situation.
Be Sure Your Lawyer Has Courtroom Experience
An accomplished courtroom presence can be invaluable when preparing and filing motions with the court. The ability to work closely with the prosecutors to not waste the judge’s time or your money can also help secure a favorable resolution.
Court-appointed attorneys may lack the time and resources to provide the same level of representation as a private criminal defense attorney. Private lawyers have more flexibility in their caseload and can devote more attention to your case.
A reputable criminal defense law firm like ours will utilize all available evidence before making informed decisions about what arguments will be most effective. They will do this before filing any motions on your behalf.
Going to Trial
When a criminal defense case reaches the point of going to trial, an accused person in Philadelphia needs to have qualified legal representation.
This is especially true if you face a first-degree felony crime or serious criminal offense. By having a knowledgeable attorney, you can gain peace of mind knowing that all possible options are being explored.
For example, to convict you of a crime, the government must present evidence that proves beyond a reasonable doubt that you are guilty of every charge element.
Preparing for Courtroom Proceedings
Knowing how to prepare for courtroom proceedings and understanding what will happen during each stage of a jury trial provides comfort and confidence when facing such daunting circumstances.
This can involve learning about the different stages of a jury trial, including jury selection, opening statements, witness examination, and closing arguments. It can also involve understanding the role of the judge, the jury, and the attorneys in the trial and the rules of evidence and procedure that apply.
A skilled criminal defense attorney can help you navigate these proceedings advise you on your legal rights and provide guidance on presenting your case in the best possible light.
They can also help you understand the potential consequences of different outcomes, such as a guilty verdict, and work to minimize the impact of those consequences on your life.
Common Charges That Could Require a Criminal Defense
Charges are becoming increasingly common in Philadelphia. With the advent of harsh drug crimes, gun charges, simple assault, and aggravated assault charges are on the rise, it is essential to understand when a criminal defense lawyer should be sought out.
While any criminal charge can have serious consequences, some require a skilled attorney to help you build a strong defense.
Here are some of the most common charges that could require a criminal defense:
- Drug crimes: Philadelphia has been hit hard by the opioid epidemic, and drug offenses are one of the most common charges in the city. This can include charges related to drug trafficking, drug possession, distribution of illegal drugs, and prescription drug fraud.
- Domestic violence: Charges related to domestic violence, including aggravated assault and battery, are also common in Philadelphia. These charges can have serious consequences, including jail time, fines, and criminal records.
- DUI: Driving under the influence (DUI) of drugs or alcohol is a serious offense in Philadelphia and can result in license suspension, fines, and even jail time.
- Theft and property crimes: Charges related to theft, burglary, and other property crimes are unfortunately also common in Philadelphia. These charges can carry serious consequences, including prison time and fines.
- White-collar crimes: Charges related to embezzlement, large-scale fraud, securities fraud, insider trading, and other crimes are becoming more prevalent today. These charges can have consequences, including hefty fines, extended prison sentences, and damage to your professional reputation. If you are charged with a white-collar crime, seek the assistance of a skilled criminal defense lawyer who can help protect your future.
In these cases, a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your legal rights, negotiate plea bargains, and represent you in court.
Public Defender or Criminal Defense Lawyer? Your Best Option for a Full and Fair Trial
A public defender may be appointed to represent you in a criminal case in Philadelphia if you cannot afford a private attorney. While public defenders are trained criminal lawyers who can provide competent representation, they often have high caseloads and limited resources to devote to each case.
As a result, they may not be able to provide the same level of individual attention and personalized representation that a private criminal defense lawyer can.
On the other hand, a private criminal defense lawyer can give you more control over your defense strategy and more personalized attention and resources. A private attorney can work with you to understand the specific circumstances of your case, investigate the evidence against you, and develop a tailored defense strategy tailored to your needs and goals.
Hiring a Private Attorney Will Depend on Several Factors
Ultimately, the decision to hire a public defender or a private criminal defense lawyer will depend on your circumstances, including your finances, the severity of your charges, and the legal representation you require.
It’s important to remember that everyone has the right to a fair trial, regardless of socioeconomic background, and that public defenders and private attorneys can help you achieve this goal.
If you are facing criminal charges in Philadelphia and are unsure about your legal representation options, it’s a good idea to consult with a criminal defense law firm like the Law Offices M.J. Snyder, LLC.
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Attorney
The right attorney can make a difference in your case and protect you from adverse consequences like severe penalties or criminal convictions.
However, it’s important to understand the pros and cons of hiring an attorney for legal representation.
Here is a table that outlines some of the common pros and cons of hiring a criminal defense attorney:
| Pros | Cons |
| Knowledge and experience in the criminal justice system | Can be expensive, especially for high-profile cases |
| Objectivity and an outside perspective on your case | Can be time-consuming, with long periods of waiting and preparation |
| Access to legal resources and experts | Lack of control over your case |
| Ability to negotiate plea bargains and settlements | Depending on your lawyer’s caseload, they may have limited availability |
| Personalized attention and tailored defense strategy | May not guarantee a successful outcome |
The main advantage of using a professional defense attorney’s legal services is their experience maneuvering through complex cases. These charges may involve assault charges, domestic violence cases, drug possession with intent, robbery charges, first-degree murder, and various homicide charges. In addition, they have access to expert witnesses and other resources that can bolster your defense.
Furthermore, they can objectively evaluate your situation, which can be crucial when deciding whether to take a plea bargain or go to trial. While these advantages are clear, having an attorney represent you also has potential downsides.
For starters, attorneys can be costly due to the time involved in preparing your defense strategy. Additionally, depending on how long it takes for evidence gathering and court appearances, the overall process may also prove quite lengthy.
There is always a risk associated with going through a trial rather than taking a plea bargain, so that should be considered before proceeding any further.
Regardless of your decision regarding hiring a Philadelphia attorney for legal, consider speaking with our team today. Our experience has proven invaluable in helping those faced with tough decisions during difficult times.
What Should I Ask a Criminal Defense Attorney I’m Thinking of Hiring?
When interviewing potential attorneys, be sure to inquire about their familiarity with relevant local laws and court procedures and details regarding their professional history; this may include their years of practice and track record of success.
Ask, too, if they have handled cases similar to yours previously. This will give you a better understanding of how knowledgeable they are in the area where you need help most.
Additionally, ensure you know all applicable costs associated with retaining their services so that no surprises arise during your case.
Finally, inquire about post-trial services offered by the firm. If successful resolution results in expungement or a clean record, it would be beneficial to know whether or not your chosen law office provides such assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Different Types of Criminal Lawyers in Philadelphia?
The first type of criminal lawyer that may come to mind is a public defender. The court typically appoints them if you cannot afford private representation. However, public defenders in Philadelphia tend to have heavy caseloads, meaning they might be unable to dedicate as much time and attention to each case as their private counterparts.
Private lawyers, on the other hand, generally specialize in a particular area of law or crime; some may focus exclusively on DUI cases, while others may concentrate on white-collar crimes such as fraud or embezzlement. Some specialize in juvenile crimes, child exploitation offenses, child abuse, and homicide charges.
As stated earlier, it is critical that before selecting a legal representative, research should be done into their qualifications and experience handling similar cases.
This includes asking questions about previous victories attained through litigation or plea-bargaining strategies employed during negotiations with prosecutors. Additionally, inquiring about communication methods used throughout the process can clarify how often updates will occur and what channels work best for both parties.
All this information can help you find the right fit for your situation from among the various types of criminal defense lawyers available in Philadelphia today.
How Much Does It Usually Cost To Hire a Criminal Lawyer in Philadelphia?
When facing criminal charges, it’s important to realize the value of having an experienced criminal defense lawyer in your corner. But before hiring one, you may wonder how much they cost. The truth is that fees for a criminal defense attorney can vary greatly depending on the complexity of your case and the resources needed to mount a strong defense.
Hiring a criminal defense lawyer in Philadelphia may cost anywhere from $2,500–$15,000 for simple cases.
More complicated cases, like white-collar crimes or those involving large amounts of evidence, may require more expertise and higher fees of $30,000 or more. If you cannot afford these prices up front, some lawyers offer payment plans so that their services can still be accessible.
When considering costs associated with hiring a criminal defense lawyer, think about the peace of mind of knowing you have an ally who understands what is at stake and knows how to protect your rights.
What Are the Chances of Getting an Acquittal if I Hire a Criminal Defense Lawyer in Philadelphia?
The answer depends on several factors, including the nature of your charges and your attorney’s experience and track record. However, as someone facing criminal accusations, having a skilled professional knowledgeable in all aspects of law enforcement may give you your best chance at an acquittal. Here’s why:
- Expertise: A criminal defense lawyer has extensive knowledge of state and federal court proceedings and laws related to matters like yours. They understand legal strategies for handling cases like yours and have experience arguing effectively before judges and juries alike. Additionally, they know how to find exculpatory evidence or witnesses that could help prove your innocence or cast doubt on opposing arguments.
- Representation that will protect your rights: Your attorney will work diligently to ensure your rights are respected. They take the time needed to present all relevant materials inside and outside the court so that any potential defenses available to you can be explored thoroughly and confidently. Furthermore, they act as a buffer between you and the prosecution while speaking up on their client’s behalf when necessary during negotiations over plea bargains and other deals offered by prosecutors.
Your criminal defense lawyer possesses valuable insight into what needs to happen for justice to prevail, regardless of whether this means working towards a dismissal or reduction in charges or putting together a strong enough case for acquittal at trial.
The skillset required from such professionals cannot be understated. Defending yourself without proper legal counsel may be impossible due to a lack of understanding of legal technicalities and various statutes associated with your charges.
What Are the Differences Between a Private Criminal Defense Lawyer and a Public Defender?
One of the most notable differences between a private attorney and a public defender lies in their respective capabilities. Private attorneys have more financial resources, allowing them to conduct case investigations or hire expert witnesses.
They also typically have deeper relationships with local law enforcement agencies and courts, resulting in greater influence when negotiating with prosecutors or judges.
In contrast, public defenders often lack sufficient funding for such activities, leading to fewer options for defending individuals accused of crimes. This is why it’s so important to consider all factors when selecting your counsel. Finding experienced professionals who can best protect you is essential.
Ultimately, deciding which type of legal defense representation will work best depends on each case and situation. However, no matter where you turn for help, it’s vital that you get sound advice from someone familiar with court proceedings and laws.
That’s why having an open conversation about your rights and expectations up front is crucial when searching for qualified legal assistance during difficult times like these.
Call M.J. Snyder Today To Speak With a Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyer
A qualified and experienced criminal defense lawyer will help protect your rights if you face criminal charges in Philadelphia. We understand that being arrested or charged with any type of crime is embarrassing and frightening; we are here to provide legal representation and support throughout the process.
The lawyers with the Law Offices of M.J. Snyder, LLC, are experienced, smart, and aggressive. We will work diligently to develop the best possible strategy for your case. Whether you need assistance preparing for trial or negotiating a plea deal, our attorneys will fight hard for you.
Contact our legal professionals today to discuss your legal options. When choosing a Philadelphia criminal defense lawyer, experience matters. So call us now to start working together towards achieving justice for you or your loved one.
