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Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers

Aggressive Representation for Serious Criminal Charges

Criminal charges are serious. A conviction can affect your reputation and your freedom forever. The criminal defense practice at van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin is built on the understanding that everyone is entitled to a zealous defense, no matter the issue.

Whether you have been arrested for DUI, charged with a white collar crime, or are under investigation for a sex offense, the Philadelphia criminal attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin are ready to provide you with discretion and relentless representation. We fight tirelessly to minimize the negative consequences of a criminal charge.

Call van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin at (215) 486-0123 or contact us online today to schedule a free case evaluation with a criminal defense attorney in Philadelphia today.

What is a Defense Attorney?

A criminal defense attorney is a legal professional who is responsible for representing an accused person in court and providing advice during their criminal proceedings. They must understand the relevant laws and have knowledge of courtroom procedures and evidence rules.

The goal of a criminal defense lawyer is to protect the rights of their client, ensuring that justice is served according to established law. They will evaluate case facts, develop strategies for defending their client’s case, prepare legal documents, negotiate plea bargains with prosecutors (if appropriate), and present arguments in court on behalf of their client. Additionally, they may need to research past cases or consult with experts to find evidence that could benefit the defendant’s case. Therefore, the role of the criminal defense attorney is to provide the best defense they can for their client within the legal system. It is a difficult job that requires knowledge, diligence, and experience.

No matter what charges are brought against you, you must understand your rights and make sure that they're being respected throughout the proceedings. A Philadelphia criminal defense attorney is an invaluable resource who can provide guidance in navigating the complex court system and ensure that your rights are upheld inside and outside the courtroom. They will fight for justice on your behalf and work tirelessly to protect your future. With their help, you may be able to reduce or eliminate some of the charges from your case or even get them dismissed altogether.

Criminal Defense Lawyers with Over 175 years of Combined Experience

van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin is a premier Philadelphia criminal defense law firm, serving individuals and families across Pennsylvania and New Jersey. With decades of experience fighting for the accused, as well as a history of outstanding litigation success, we have earned a much-deserved reputation as one of Pennsylvania’s toughest, hardest-working law firms.

Over the years, we have achieved numerous not-guilty verdicts for charges ranging from DUI to murder. You can rely on our team to work around the clock and fight for the best possible results for you and your family.

Providing Relentless Criminal Defense Throughout Pennsylvania

Trust Philadelphia’s toughest, hardest-working attorney to defend your freedom and your future. Criminal charges are serious. A conviction forever affects your reputation and your freedom.

The criminal defense practice at van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin is built on the understanding that everyone is entitled to a zealous defense, no matter what the issue. Whether a DUI offense, white collar crime, or sex offense, the Philadelphia criminal attorneys at van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin promise you discretion and relentless representation.

We will fight tirelessly to minimize the negative consequences of a criminal charge. If you are facing criminal charges, our firm is your best defense. Mr. van der Veen is one of the toughest, hardest-working attorneys in Philadelphia, with a long and impressive track record of success. When your future and your freedom hangs in the balance, he is the Philadelphia criminal attorney you need on your side.

Serious Crimes Necessitate a Seasoned Defense Attorney

The circumstances of each criminal case are different, making these matters particularly complex. Attorney van der Veen started his career as a criminal defense lawyer in Chicago, handling drug cases with national attention.

Through these cases, he was instrumental in changing the law, and decriminalizing needle possession, thus reducing the spread of AIDS. Having built his reputation on notable wins in high-stakes, high-profile criminal matters, he handles the most complicated, serious criminal cases, including:

  • Murder—The stakes cannot be higher than they are in a murder case. A conviction can result in life imprisonment or death. In these very difficult cases, it is essential to have a dedicated and experienced legal advocate on your side. Our law firm offers the innovative, winning defense strategy you need and our Philadelphia criminal defense attorneys are not afraid to aggressively defend you in court if necessary.
  • Assault—Some assault offenses are more serious than others, but any conviction negatively impacts your life. As an acclaimed Philadelphia criminal defense attorney, Mr. van der Veen takes the time necessary to understand your case and develop a winning strategy, tailored to the specific circumstances of your situation.
  • Sex crimes—Sex offenses are sensitive matters. These charges necessitate a compassionate but committed representation. Our criminal defense attorneys welcome the opportunity to stand up for those accused of rape, sexual assault, and related crimes. If you are facing sex-related charges, don’t wait another minute and sacrifice your future. Contact us today for vigorous representation. Protecting your rights, your reputation and your future is our goal.
  • DUI—Driving Under the Influence charges can substantially affect your life. Whether this is your first DUI or you have multiple convictions, we work unrelentingly to defend you.
  • Drug offenses—Law enforcement is aggressive in pursuing offenses for possession, manufacturing, or trafficking of controlled substances. It is important, therefore, to have an attorney who is equally aggressive in defending you. Attorney van der Veen is well-known as being the most aggressive attorney in Philadelphia.
  • Arson—In addition to substantial monetary penalties, an arson conviction may send you to jail. Individuals charged with arson may also be facing additional criminal charges, including murder, if people were injured in the fire. A serious crime necessitates a serious criminal defense attorney.

No matter the charges you are facing, our legal team will leverage the facts and circumstances in your case to create a solid defense strategy.

Furthermore, we offer clients a safe and non-judgmental atmosphere in which to pursue their case. Our intention is never to judge, only to provide an unwavering defense. Lean on our attorneys to stand up and fight for you when it matters most.

Sophisticated Internet Crime Attorney Tapped into the Latest Case Strategies and Defenses

Crimes involving the internet are relatively new and are governed by laws that change with evolving technology. Staying abreast of these advances is essential to appropriately handle these legal issues. Clients trust our firm to always be on top of the latest defenses and winning strategies in complicated internet crimes:

  • Theft—Theft offenses are diverse and include identity theft, bank theft, and credit card theft. Because many theft charges arise from misunderstandings, it is important to have an attorney who understands how to leverage the facts to serve in your defense.
  • Possession of child pornography—Having child pornography on your computer can result in a serious criminal charge. Attorney van der Veen has extensive experience handling child pornography cases and is considered a well-versed Pennsylvania internet crimes attorney who can defend you against these sensitive allegations.
  • Forgery—Forgery charges range in seriousness depending on the documents that were allegedly forged. Complicated electronic evidence can make or break your defense, so having a skilled criminal defense lawyer on your side is a must.

Choosing a Criminal Defense Attorneys in Philadelphia, PA

The internet is expansive and so are our law firm’s criminal defense capabilities. Mr. van der Veen began his legal career handling a sensitive and evolving area of criminal law, an experience that drove him to excel in other sophisticated criminal issues. In internet crimes cases, we act as a trustworthy legal advocate for those in Philadelphia and throughout Pennsylvania.

If you or someone you love has been arrested or charged with a crime, call us at (215) 486-0123 or contact us online for a free, confidential consultation.

Notable Case Results

Always Pursing the Best Possible Outcome
  • Second Impeachment Trial of President Donald Trump Acquittal
  • Murder Case Not Guilty
  • Rape Case Not Guilty
  • Aggravated Assault Not Guilty
  • Drug Trafficking Not Guilty
  • Rape Not Guilty
  • Embezzlement Charges Dropped
  • DUI Not Guilty
  • Child Pornography Not Guilty
  • Governor’s pardon Pardon Granted

In the Media

Throughout the years, our firm and our individual attorneys have been recognized in both local and national media for our extensive legal knowledge, experience, and record of success. Our attorneys frequently appear in the media to provide insights and information on various legal matters, including high-profile cases.

Choosing the Right Firm Can Make All the Difference

  • Unrivaled Record of Success
    We have won tens of millions of dollars for injured victims, and have achieved countless "not guilty" verdicts for clients faced with criminal charges.
  • No Challenge too Big
    Our firm has handled some of the biggest cases in country, including representing the President of the United States.
  • Personalized Representation

    We understand that every case is unique. Therefore, we tailor our approach based on the facts of the case and the needs of our client. 

  • Uncompromising Passion
    Our competitive nature is one of our strongest qualities. You can be confident that no other firm will outwork our team.
  • Holistic Approach
    Not only do we want to excel legally for the client, but we also want to make sure we are strengthening their mind, body and spirt.
  • Supporting the Community
    Our team engages in many community events and regularly donates time and resources to many charitable organizations in Philadelphia.
Talk to Our Experienced Team

Home to Philadelphia’s most accomplished attorneys, van der Veen, Hartshorn and Levin pairs diverse practice experience with a passion-driven, comprehensive law practice—all for the client’s benefit.