In criminal cases involving drugs and alcohol, the judge's sentence may send the individual in question to rehab rather than jail. While the ultimate decision falls on the judge and depends on the details of the case, there are a few factors that affect the odds of...
Criminal Defense
When can the police search a car for drugs?
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court issued a ruling that restricts the ability of law enforcement to search a vehicle. While an office is free to search the car when they have a search warrant, there are clear limitations established for searching a car for drugs or other...
3 ways roadside breath testing devices go wrong
Under Pennsylvania’s implied consent law, drivers must submit to a breath test when officers request one. Roadside breath testing devices, however, may produce unreliable readings, as an investigation by the New York Times uncovered. Despite breath testing device...
How to act during a traffic stop
The police can pull over drivers that break the law. If you find yourself in a traffic stop, it helps to know what you should and should not do. An officer considers your behavior during a roadside stop. You can maintain your rights and still help your cause. Take a...
When police catch your child with marijuana: Fallout and help
Marijuana is a point of contention in the U.S., with many arguing for the legalization of its recreational and medical use. While it is currently legal in Guam, Washington D.C. and 19 states, Pennsylvania is not among this number. Unfortunately, the use of cannabis by...
There is some good news for college students facing drug charges
If you are a college student, no one has to tell you how expensive pursuing a four-year degree can be. In addition to seeking help from your family, working a job and taking out private loans, you may qualify for government-backed financial aid. This aid may include...
A first-time DUI may complicate your child’s college budget
When you attended college, you may not have thought much about tuition and fees. If you are planning to send your son or daughter to school, though, you undoubtedly understand how challenging paying for a college degree can be nowadays. After all, the average cost of...
Types of Pennsylvania DUI penalties
Pennsylvania has established three tiers of penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. Your legal consequences depend on your blood alcohol content at the time of arrest and other factors. Review the penalties for Pennsylvania DUI if you...
What every driver should know about holiday DUI crackdowns
The way we celebrate the holidays can look quite different this year. However, one thing that remains the same is that police are especially focused on enforcing DUI laws in Pennsylvania this time of year. Knowing what their efforts entail and what rights you have can...
Protecting yourself after a ‘highway stop-and-frisk’
There are roughly 9 million licensed drivers in Pennsylvania; countless more drivers regularly travel through the state. Of these drivers, according to Pennsylvania State Police, nearly one million were stopped in 2019. Even though traffic stops are not uncommon, many...