Drexel Hill Criminal Defense Lawyer

Legal Process Explained: Navigating The Criminal Defense System With a Trusted Drexel Hill Criminal Defense Lawyer

Navigating the criminal justice system can be a daunting experience, particularly when you are unsure of what lies ahead. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we believe in empowering our clients with knowledge. Understanding the legal process in Drexel Hill’s criminal justice system is the first step in preparing for your defense. Here’s a straightforward guide to help demystify what you can expect at each stage.

Arrest and Booking

• The process begins with an arrest, where you are taken into police custody.
• During booking, your personal information and details of the alleged crime are recorded.

Arraignment

• Your first court appearance where the charges against you are read.
• You will have the opportunity to enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).

Bail and Pretrial Release

• The court may set bail, which is a financial assurance of your return for future court dates.
• In some cases, you may be released on your own recognizance without the need for bail.

Preliminary Hearing

• This is where the judge determines whether there is enough evidence to proceed to trial.
• Your defense attorney can cross-examine witnesses and challenge the evidence.

Plea Bargaining

• Before trial, there may be negotiations between your attorney and the prosecution to resolve the case.
• This can result in a plea deal, where you may plead guilty to lesser charges in exchange for a more lenient sentence.

Trial

• If your case goes to trial, both sides will present their evidence and arguments.
• The jury (or judge in a bench trial) will deliberate and render a verdict.

Sentencing

• If found guilty, the court will schedule a sentencing hearing.
• Your defense attorney can argue for a lesser sentence based on various factors.

Appeals

• If convicted, you have the right to appeal the court’s decision.
• The appeal is a separate process that reviews the trial’s proceedings for legal errors.

It is important to remember that each criminal case is unique, with its own set of circumstances and challenges. The above steps provide a general framework, but the specific path your case takes may vary. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we are committed to guiding you through each stage of this process with clarity and support. Our goal is to ensure you are fully informed and confidently prepared as we advocate on your behalf.

Understanding the legal process is crucial, but having the right legal team by your side is indispensable. The criminal defense attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin possess the knowledge, experience, and dedication to navigate the complexities of Drexel Hill’s legal system. We stand ready to defend your rights and secure the best possible outcome in your case. Let us be your voice and your shield in the pursuit of justice.

Criminal Defense Legal Services: Areas We Serve

At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, we are proud to provide trusted and strategic criminal defense representation across Pennsylvania. Our attorneys are dedicated to protecting the rights and freedoms of individuals accused of crimes, offering strong advocacy and personalized defense strategies at every stage of the legal process. Wherever you are located, effective legal counsel is always within reach.

We serve clients throughout Pennsylvania, including the following counties and communities:

• Philadelphia County
• Montgomery County
• Lehigh County
• Northampton County
• Chester County
• Bucks County
• Delaware County
• Berks County

State-wide, our Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyers craft tailored defense strategies to protect the rights and futures of individuals facing misdemeanor and felony charges in these communities.