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Criminal law is established by statute and exists to punish people who violate laws. Punishments vary with the severity of the offense, and range from a simple fine (such as a speeding ticket) to imprisonment or death. Criminal law is a state law, and each state has its own criminal code. Criminal law forbids a person to be punished based on status (for instance, it is possible an individual cannot be punished for being homeless).

If you have been convicted of a crime, have a warrant out for your arrest, or a charge has been filed, you may need to hire a criminal defense lawyer. An experienced criminal attorney or law firm may be able to help you with a plea bargain, reduce your fine, or possibly assist in avoiding jail time. Whether your case is a DUI-DWI, Felony, or Misdemeanor, you should consult with a criminal lawyer to assist you with the process. Some criminal lawyers offer free consultations.

If you have been accused or charged with an offense, please browse the Lawyer.com directory to connect with a criminal attorney near you.

Criminal Legal Articles

Legal articles on Lawyer.com, Written by legal experts, are a great resource for learning more about Criminal. Find more legal articles

Pennsylvania’s new distracted driving law: what drivers and lawyers need to know about paul miller’s law

Paul Miller’s Law bans handheld device use while driving in Pennsylvania starting June 2025. This article explains the law’s key provisions, penalties, exceptions, and impact on enforcement, personal injury claims, and legal practice.

Understanding arrest and search warrants in pennsylvania: what you need to know

If you or someone you love is facing the possibility of an arrest or police search in Pennsylvania, it's crucial to understand how arrest and search warrants work. At the Law Office of John B. Pike, we’ve been helping clients navigate these legal issues for over 35 years, with a commitment to protecting your rights and keeping you out of jail whenever possible.

Why hiring an expensive criminal defense lawyer might be the smartest decision you make

At the Law Office of John B. Pike, we’ve spent 35 years representing clients accused of very serious crimes; from drug trafficking to violent felonies and homicide in Northeastern Pennsylvania. We understand why people are cautious about legal fees. But we also know this: when the government is trying to take your freedom, you need the best possible defense, not the cheapest.

Can the police lie to you?

Yes, under both federal and Pennsylvania law, police officers are legally permitted to use deception during interrogations. This includes making false statements about evidence, witnesses, or the consequences of cooperation. Such tactics are often employed to elicit confessions or admissions from suspects.

Understanding dui checkpoints in pennsylvania: what you need to know

Driving under the influence (DUI) checkpoints are a common law enforcement tool used to catch impaired drivers before they can cause harm. However, many drivers in Pennsylvania may not fully understand their rights and responsibilities when encountering these checkpoints. If you or someone you know is facing DUI charges from a checkpoint stop, it’s crucial to know the law and how to protect yourself.

Will a speeding ticket in pennsylvania affect my automobile insurance?

Receiving a speeding ticket in Pennsylvania can indeed impact your automobile insurance premiums. Insurance companies view speeding violations as indicators of increased risk, which often leads to higher rates. On average, Pennsylvanians may see their insurance premiums rise by approximately 19% following a speeding ticket. However, this percentage can vary based on factors such as the severity of the offense, your previous driving record, and the specific policies of your insurance provider.

What police can't make you answer in a traffic stop in pennsylvania

If you're pulled over by the police in Pennsylvania, it's important to know your rights. Many drivers feel pressure to answer every question or comply with every request, but the Constitution protects you from overreach. Here's what you are and aren't required to answer during a traffic stop in the Keystone State.

Why every good defense lawyer needs a private investigator

In criminal defense, a lawyer is only as good as the facts they can prove. No matter how skilled an attorney is in the courtroom, they can't build a solid defense without solid evidence. This is why every good defense lawyer needs a private investigator (PI) on their team.

Common pennsylvania criminal charges explained

Navigating the criminal justice system can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the charges you or someone you care about may be facing. Pennsylvania has its own set of laws that define crimes and penalties, and understanding these charges is the first step in addressing them. Below, we break down some of the most common criminal charges in Pennsylvania and what they entail.