Steven E Burk Attorney at Law

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.

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.

the United States legal system is built on the foundation of federalism, which establishes a balance of power between the federal government and the individual states. One principle that exemplifies this balance is the Dual Sovereignty Doctrine. This doctrine, though sometimes controversial, plays a critical role in the prosecution of crimes and the protection of justice across the country. In this blog, we will explore the origins, implications, and criticisms of the Dual Sovereignty Doctrine.

a Guide to Mississippi's probate process, outlining key steps, differences between probate with or without a will, common disputes, timelines, attorney involvement, and distinctions between probate and non-probate assets.

mississippi parents should start estate planning early, naming immediate, temporary, and permanent guardians, and securing their children’s future with affordable term life insurance and trusts. Proper planning ensures children’s care and financial support, regardless of unforeseen events.

when facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, a defendant’s primary source of legal insight and procedural guidance is their criminal defense lawyer. The responsibility of a Pennsylvania criminal attorney extends far beyond merely representing a client in court—it involves ensuring that the client fully understands the legal process, their rights, and the possible consequences of each decision they make.

when facing criminal charges in Pennsylvania, it is essential to understand the distinction between felonies and misdemeanors. These classifications determine the severity of the offense, potential penalties, and long-term consequences for individuals convicted of a crime.

new lawyers shying away from the courtroom?

recent high-profile criminal cases in Pennsylvania

being involved in a car accident is stressful enough, but discovering the at-fault driver has no insurance can feel overwhelming. In Missouri, where approximately 14% of drivers are uninsured, St. Louis residents face this situation all too frequently. What many accident victims don't realize is that they have legal options beyond what their insurance company initially offers.

this article gives an overview of the intricacies of estate planning that avoids later stress for families.

los Angeles Recycling Requirements for Homeowners: The critical concern of Waste Management

driving under the influence (DUI) in California is typically a misdemeanor, but under certain circumstances, it can be charged as a felony. Understanding when a DUI escalates to a felony is crucial if you’re facing charges.

international Women’s Day is the perfect time for women to break barriers, embrace financial empowerment, and take bold steps toward lasting security and independence. Estate planning is one of the key steps forward in the journey through life.

podcast: Newport Beach Real Estate Attorney Juliet Sussman on "Why Timeshares Cause Divorce"

if your car insurance claim is denied, speaking with a lawyer improves your chances of success, especially in cases of bad faith, delays, or serious injuries.

new York City is home to millions of rides each day, and with the convenience of services like Uber comes the risk of accidents. If you’ve been involved in an Uber accident, understanding your legal rights and the steps you should take immediately afterward can make a significant difference in your recovery—both physically and financially.

during the holidays, spending time with family often reveals changes in aging relatives that might otherwise go unnoticed. Whether it's a physical decline, cognitive issues, or struggles with daily tasks, these observations can serve as reminders to have important conversations about future care. Advanced directives and powers of attorney are essential legal tools that ensure your loved ones' wishes are respected, and relieve potential stress on family members during challenging times.

advanced directives are vital legal documents that empower individuals to make their Health Care preferences known in the event they are unable to communicate or make decisions themselves.

memory loss from many causes, including Alzheimer's, Parkinson's or other dementias can be progressive, so it’s important to revisit budgets,  medical assessments,  financial and legal plans periodically to make adjustments as circumstances change. Having open conversations with family members, lawyers and other  trusted individuals about financial decisions, the individual’s wishes, and the role they may play in the future can make memory loss less  stressful for all involved.