Southwest Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers

The Criminal Defense Process in Pennsylvania

Understanding the criminal defense process in Pennsylvania is important if you are facing criminal charges. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our Southwest Philadelphia criminal defense lawyers are here to guide you through every step, making sure you are informed and ready. Here is a brief overview of the criminal defense process in Pennsylvania:

• Arrest: The process starts with an arrest by the police based on probable cause. You will be taken into custody, and your personal information and fingerprints will be recorded.
• Charges: After the arrest, the prosecution will file formal charges against you, detailing the specific crimes you are accused of.
• Initial Court Appearance: During the arraignment, you will go before a judge to hear the charges. The judge will inform you of your rights and ask for your plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest).
• Bail Determination: The judge will decide if you can be released on bail and, if so, the amount. Bail allows you to be released while awaiting trial.
• Discovery: Both sides exchange evidence and information related to the case, including police reports and witness statements.
• Motions: Pre-trial motions can be filed to address legal issues, such as suppressing unlawfully obtained evidence or requesting a change of venue.
• Negotiations: The defense and prosecution may negotiate to resolve the case without a trial. This can lead to reduced charges or lighter penalties.
• Agreement: If a plea deal is reached, you will plead guilty or no contest to the agreed charges, and the judge will impose the agreed-upon sentence.
• Jury Selection: If the case goes to trial, a jury will be chosen to hear the evidence. Both sides can question potential jurors to ensure fairness.
• Presentation of Evidence: Both sides present evidence, call witnesses, and make arguments. The defense will challenge the prosecution’s evidence and present its own.
• Verdict: After closing arguments, the jury will decide if you are guilty or not guilty. If found guilty, sentencing will follow.
• Sentencing: If convicted, the judge will determine the punishment based on the crime's severity and other factors. This can include fines, probation, or imprisonment.
• Appeals: If you believe there were mistakes during the trial, you can appeal the conviction. Our criminal defense lawyers can help file and argue appeals to seek a reversal or change of the verdict.

With the guidance of our experienced lawyers, you can navigate the criminal defense process with confidence, knowing we are committed to defending your rights and seeking the best possible outcome for your case.

How van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin Can Help With Your Case

Facing criminal charges is very serious and requires extensive legal help. The Southwest Philadelphia criminal defense lawyers at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin are here to support you through every step. We handle the complexities of criminal defense, including examining evidence, negotiating plea deals, and protecting your rights. Our attorneys will carefully investigate your case, create a strong defense strategy, and fight hard for you.

Why Choose Our Southwest Philadelphia Criminal Defense Lawyers For Your Case?

Choosing the right lawyer is very important when facing criminal charges. At van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin, our defense attorneys are committed to giving you the best legal help. Here are some reasons why you should choose our firm:

• Personalized Attention: We know every case is different. We take the time to understand your situation and create a defense strategy just for you.
• Comprehensive Defense Strategies: We look at every detail of your case carefully to build a strong defense.
• Experienced Advocacy: Our lawyers have many years of experience in criminal defense. We know how to handle complex legal issues and challenge the evidence against you.
• Client Communication: We make sure to keep you informed and involved at every step of the process.
• Commitment to Results: Our main goal is to get the best outcome for you, whether through negotiation, trial, or appeal. We work hard to protect your rights and future.
• Local Expertise: We have a deep understanding of the local courts and legal procedures in Southwest Philadelphia, which helps us defend your case effectively.

Trust van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin to provide the dedicated and effective legal representation you need.

About Criminal Matters in Southwest Philadelphia

In Southwest Philadelphia and nearby areas, certain crimes like drug offenses, theft, and violent crimes happen more often. These high crime rates may be due to economic problems, higher population density, and limited access to resources and opportunities. Despite these challenging statistics, it’s important to remember that those facing criminal charges are not alone. The experienced Southwest Philadelphia criminal defense lawyers at van der Veen, Hartshorn & Levin are here to provide the support and legal help you need to get through these tough times and protect your rights.

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.