Criminal Defense Services in Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh criminal lawyers provide comprehensive legal representation to individuals facing criminal charges. Their expertise encompasses a wide range of criminal offenses, including:
Felony Cases
* Drug possession and distribution
* Violent crimes (e.g., assault, homicide)
* Property crimes (e.g., burglary, robbery)
* White-collar crimes (e.g., fraud, embezzlement)
Misdemeanor Cases
* DUI/DWI
* Traffic violations
* Domestic violence
* Disorderly conduct
Pittsburgh criminal lawyers employ various legal strategies to defend their clients, including:
* Negotiating plea agreements
* Filing motions to dismiss charges
* Presenting evidence at trial
* Advocating for alternative sentencing options (e.g., probation, community service)
Choosing a Pittsburgh Criminal Lawyer
Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, especially when facing serious charges. Choosing the right Pittsburgh criminal lawyer is crucial for protecting your rights and securing a favorable outcome.
Consider these factors when selecting an attorney:
Experience and Specialization
Seek a lawyer with extensive experience handling criminal cases in Pittsburgh. Specialization in a specific area of criminal law, such as DUI or drug offenses, demonstrates expertise and a deep understanding of the relevant laws and procedures.
Reputation and Referrals
Inquire about a lawyer’s reputation among colleagues, clients, and the local legal community. Positive reviews and referrals indicate a track record of success and client satisfaction.
Attorney-Client Relationship
Building a strong attorney-client relationship is essential. Choose a lawyer who communicates effectively, listens attentively, and understands your concerns. Trust and open communication are vital for a successful defense strategy.
The Criminal Justice System in Pittsburgh
The criminal justice system in Pittsburgh comprises various entities working together to uphold the law and protect the rights of individuals. This system involves law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, courts, and defense attorneys.
The process of a criminal case typically begins with an arrest by law enforcement officers. The arrested individual is then taken to the Allegheny County Jail, where they are processed and charged with a crime. The next step is a preliminary hearing, where a judge determines if there is probable cause to believe that the defendant committed the crime. If so, the case proceeds to trial. During the trial, the prosecution presents evidence against the defendant, while the defense presents evidence in their favor. The jury then deliberates and reaches a verdict, which can be guilty, not guilty, or a hung jury. If the defendant is found guilty, they are sentenced by the judge.
Individuals accused of crimes in Pittsburgh have certain rights under the law. These include the right to remain silent, the right to an attorney, the right to a fair trial, and the right to due process. It is important to remember that everyone is innocent until proven guilty, and that the burden of proof lies with the prosecution.
Appeals and Post-Conviction Relief
Appeals and post-conviction relief are legal mechanisms available to individuals convicted of crimes in Pittsburgh. Understanding these processes can be crucial for exploring options to challenge a conviction or seek relief from its consequences.
Appeals involve challenging a criminal conviction by presenting arguments to a higher court. The grounds for appeal can include errors made during the trial, such as improper jury instructions or the admission of inadmissible evidence. The process typically involves filing a notice of appeal within a specific time frame and submitting a brief outlining the arguments for overturning the conviction.
Post-conviction relief refers to legal actions taken after a conviction has become final. These actions may include motions for a new trial based on newly discovered evidence or claims of ineffective assistance of counsel. In some cases, individuals may also seek expungement of their criminal records, which can involve having certain convictions removed from public view.
