Pennsylvania Criminal Law Blog
What are unlawful DUI stops?
Operating a motor vehicle under the influence endangers lives. Since the consequences of drunk driving can be tragic, there are strict laws in place to discourage such wrongdoing. Nevertheless, officers must adhere to strict legal standards when dealing with suspects....
What do the police consider violent crimes in Pennsylvania?
In Pennsylvania, the law takes a strict stance on violent crimes, recognizing them as serious offenses that carry significant penalties. These crimes involve the use or threat of force against individuals, often resulting in physical harm or even death. Pennsylvania...
What parolees should know about ankle monitors
A common condition of parole, ankle monitors allow authorities to track the location of those released from prison. These devices assist the reintegration process, offering an alternative to incarceration while maintaining public safety. Individuals who wear them...
How does the driving records point system work?
Certain moving violations can lead to points on a driver's driving record. The state maintains this record to ensure drivers continue to display safe behavior on the roads. This system encourages smart driving habits and penalizes drivers who commit traffic...
Possible legal defenses for field sobriety testing
For many motorists who face DUI charges, field sobriety testing plays a role in the process. While sobriety testing has a legal precedent, issues with accuracy can easily occur. That is why people facing DUI charges must understand potential problems with field...
What is the difference between dismissal and expungement?
In Pennsylvania, when facing a criminal case legal processes like dismissal and expungement are two ways of addressing certain charges on one's record. Grasping the distinctions between these terms helps to navigate the legal landscape effectively. Dismissal Dismissal...
3 types of assault charges under Pennsylvania law
Assault, a term often associated with physical harm, means many things under Pennsylvania law. The law defines different types of assault, each carrying corresponding penalties. If you are facing assault charges, knowing the distinctions between them can aid you as...
When does a DUI become a felony in Pennsylvania?
Driving under the influence is a serious offense that has severe consequences. In Pennsylvania, the legal repercussions for a DUI can escalate from a misdemeanor to a felony under certain circumstances. Felony DUI convictions in Pennsylvania come with more severe...
The legal consequences of running a red light
As a driver, obeying traffic signals is one of the most effective ways to ensure motorist and pedestrian safety. Ignoring signals, especially a red light, can lead to accidents and injuries. Disregarding a red light can also lead to severe legal consequences. The law...
Why eyewitness testimony is often unreliable
Eyewitness accounts are a cornerstone in legal proceedings and investigations. However, a closer look reveals the inherent unreliability of such testimony. Many factors contribute to the frequent inaccuracies associated with eyewitness accounts. These factors...
