Blog Category | criminal defense
What Happens if I Violate My Probation or Parole?
A probation or parole violation can lead to additional restrictions and, in some cases, incarceration. However, not every mistake automatically results in jail. At Crouthamel Law, protecting your rights is a priority at every stage of the criminal justice process. If you’re facing a probation or parole violation, our criminal...
What Is the Difference Between a Plea Bargain and Going to Trial?
A plea bargain results in a conviction, while a trial allows you to fight the charges and seek an acquittal. Each path presents different consequences and risks. At Crouthamel Law, we provide criminal defense representation in Bethlehem and throughout Pennsylvania. Choosing between a plea offer and a trial is often...
How Does a DUI Affect Future Criminal Charges?
A prior DUI can affect how future criminal charges are handled, even years later. Our Bethlehem DUI attorney helps clients understand the ongoing impact of a DUI record. The Long-Term Impact of a DUI in Criminal Cases In Pennsylvania, a DUI conviction does not go away after paying fines or...
How Bail Eligibility Works in Pennsylvania Criminal Cases
Understanding how bail works in Pennsylvania—and what judges consider when deciding whether to grant it, is crucial to protecting your freedom at the start of a criminal case. A Bethlehem criminal defense attorney can guide you through the process, explain your options, and advocate for the least restrictive bail terms....
What to Expect After a Probation or Parole Violation
If you’re on probation or parole, it can feel like you’re walking on a tightrope. One mistake, or even an accusation, can land you back in court or, worse, back behind bars. Understanding what happens after a violation and how our criminal defense attorney can help is critical to protecting...
Self-Representation in Pennsylvania Criminal Trials
If you’ve been charged with a crime, you may consider defending yourself, or must you hire a lawyer? In short, you can in many cases, but doing so is risky. This article explores the pros and cons, the legal standards, and why having a criminal defense attorney in Bethlehem, PA,...
Why You Shouldn’t Represent Yourself in a Criminal Case
Were you arrested and charged with a crime in Lehigh County? You may be wondering whether you can represent yourself. That is absolutely a right that you have under the law, but it is not a good idea. Criminal cases are complicated, and your rights, freedom, and future could be...
Your Rights When Being Questioned by the Police in Bethlehem, PA.
When police stop to question you, you are protected by the U.S. Constitution. You have the right to be free from unreasonable searches, the right to remain silent, and the right to an attorney. These protections — guaranteed under the Fourth, Fifth, and Sixth Amendments and reinforced by the Miranda...
Key Differences Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor
In Pennsylvania, the main difference between a felony and a misdemeanor is the severity of the offense and the punishment it carries. Felonies are more serious crimes. They have the possibility of at least one year in prison (and sometimes far more) for a conviction. In contrast, misdemeanors involve less...
Common defenses against criminal charges in Pennsylvania
Getting charged with a criminal offense can be troubling and have potentially life-changing consequences. In such situations, mounting a robust defense is crucial. When facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, several possible defenses may form part of your defense strategy. The defense of entrapment Your defense team may present the argument...
What’s first-degree murder in Pennsylvania?
If you intentionally kill someone in Pennsylvania, you could be charged with first-degree murder. It is the most serious homicide charge, and it carries severe legal penalties in the event of a conviction. Murder is a capital offense, and you may spend a lifetime behind bars or worse if you...
Can the judge refuse a plea deal?
The majority of criminal charges never go to trial due to plea bargaining. A plea bargain is an arrangement where the defendant pleads guilty to the original charge or a lesser charge in exchange for a more lenient sentence. Plea bargaining can offer several benefits to both parties. However, it’s...
Do you have to let the police come inside?
If a police officer asks to come inside your house, do you actually have a choice? Is it actually a question or are they demanding to come inside? Regardless of how they phrase it, it does need to be a question. The officer needs your permission to enter your home....
What is a “chain of custody” and why does it matter?
If you stand accused of a crime then the police and prosecution will search for evidence to back up their case. Some of that may take the form of physical items – such as an item of clothing found near a crime scene or a bag of drugs allegedly found...