Attorneys Helping the Accused
The most authoritative source of rights that belong to any criminal defendant in the United States is the Constitution. The Bill of Rights and subsequent amendments to the Constitution convey the following rights and protections to every defendant:
- Due process
- Protection from unreasonable searches and seizures
- The right against self-incrimination
- The right to legal counsel
- The right to a speedy, public trial
- The right to confront witnesses
- Protection against cruel and unusual punishment
In addition to these rights, there is an overriding assumption in the United States that a criminal defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This is the highest standard of proof in the legal system, and the underlying intent is such that our system is better if a small number of guilty defendants go free than having a small number of innocent defendants convicted wrongfully. However, as stated, many of these rights need to be asserted, which is why you need an experienced and skilled Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney to make sure that none of your rights go unprotected.
Working with our criminal defense lawyer is your guaranteed right, and given the possibility of severe sanctions if you are convicted of a crime, you owe it to yourself to make every effort to preserve your freedom and to fight for your rights. In order to do so, you need to contact the Palkovitz Law Office Traffic Law Center as soon as possible to schedule an initial consultation. Money should not be a reason not to protect yourself – the firm offers payment plans and flexibility in that regard, as your freedom is more important than your current financial status. Contact us today at (412) 678-9000.
Felony and misdemeanor charges
When someone is charged with a crime in Pennsylvania, that crime is classified as either a felony or a misdemeanor. While these classifications may seem relatively minor compared to the ultimate result of any case, the truth is that such a classification could make all the difference in what ultimately happens if the defendant is convicted.
The nature of misdemeanors in Pennsylvania
Misdemeanors are generally less severe than felonies in Pennsylvania, and like with felonies, Pennsylvania has a number-based system designed to describe the severity of the crime alleged.
Why you need a Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney
The reasons you will need the help of a Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer when you are charged with a crime are nearly limitless in number. In regards to the classification of the crime, an experienced criminal defense attorney may be able to negotiate a charge that’s a felony down to a misdemeanor, which clearly subjects the defendant to much shorter periods of incarceration.
If a plea bargain is not reached and a trial is completed, a criminal defense attorney will also be able to present the best possible case for you as it relates to the sentence that the judge ultimately hands down. There is room for discretion with judges, and a skilled attorney will be able to present all of the relevant evidence that could be of aid to you in regards to that decision. In essence, a conviction could ultimately include time served that’s commensurate with a class 3 felony as opposed to a class 2 felony, and every day not spent incarcerated is an enormous benefit.
Ultimately, you need help if you’ve been charged with a crime in Pennsylvania. The Palkovitz Law Office Traffic Law Center is a law firm with offices in White Oak and downtown Pittsburgh, and the firm’s attorneys will be able to meet with you at your location. You may also be able to work out a fair and reasonable payment plan with the firm, as money should not be a reason to have to give up your legal rights and protections. Contact us today to schedule an initial consultation.
