In Pennsylvania, you have the legal right to represent yourself in a driving under the influence (DUI) case. This is known as "pro se" representation. However, just because you are permitted to represent yourself does not mean it is a wise decision. DUI cases carry...
It is certainly understandable to feel uncomfortable allowing the police to enter your home. However, there may come a day when an officer knocks on your door and asks if they can come inside. They may say they just want to talk to you for a moment or take a quick...
Whether you face an imminent threat or want to be prepared, knowing when deadly force is legal can empower you to protect yourself and your loved ones while staying within legal boundaries. In Pennsylvania, self-defense laws clearly outline when you may use deadly...
A plea deal is an agreement between you and the prosecution to resolve your criminal case without going to trial. It may involve pleading guilty to lesser charges or accepting a lighter sentence in exchange for an admission of guilt, thereby waiving your right to a...
Assaults sometimes occur between strangers. Two people might reach for the last discounted laptop computer on Black Friday and end up fighting intensely over it. Social settings tend to contribute to the risk of violent interactions between individuals. People...
Believe it or not, the prosecution is never required to provide a motive to secure a conviction for a crime – but that doesn’t mean they won’t try. In a criminal case, a motive isn’t the same as the intent behind a crime. Intent is the mental state required before or...
No driver wants to look in their rearview and see police lights flashing behind them. This moment is one that can spark anxiety and uncertainty. The police may conduct the stop for any number of reasons. They may believe that you committed a serious offense or they...
Retail theft has become an increasingly serious and costly problem throughout the country. Takeover robberies carried out by multiple people (sometimes organized through social media) have spurred lawmakers in a number of states to strengthen their retail theft laws,...
Most people are familiar with the term “money laundering.” Fewer have heard the terms “structuring” and “smurfing.” First, it’s important to understand the federal Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). It requires financial institutions to report large cash transactions. The BSA...
Fraud is one of the most common federal crimes in the U.S. Depending on the nature of the fraud, the number of victims and the extent of financial loss, a conviction can lead to severe legal and personal consequences. Basically, fraud happens when one party willfully...
