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Being charged with a crime can feel stressful and confusing. The Carlisle criminal defense lawyers at Mette Attorneys at Law can help you understand the legal process, whether you are charged with a misdemeanor or felony offense. Our attorneys take the time to understand every detail of your case and build a defense strategy focused on protecting your rights throughout the criminal justice process.
Defining Misdemeanors and Felony Charges in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania divides misdemeanors into three levels: first-degree, second-degree, and third-degree. A first-degree misdemeanor is the most serious type of misdemeanor and typically has the strongest penalties. Examples of misdemeanors may include:
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Shoplifting
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Fraud
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Simple assault
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Disorderly conduct
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Drug crimes
Felonies are serious crimes. Pennsylvania divides felonies into different levels based on severity. Murder charges have separate classifications. Examples of felonies include:
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Aggravated assault
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Arson
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Burglary
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Drug trafficking
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Drug distribution
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Major theft
Before taking part in the legal process, it’s vital to contact our attorneys. Mette Attorneys at Law helps clients prepare for every court appearance and explains what to expect throughout the process. We work to reduce uncertainty by keeping clients informed and developing legal strategies based on the specific facts of each case. Early legal representation also allows our lawyers time to begin gathering evidence and interviewing key witnesses for your case.
Building a Strong Defense in a Criminal Case
The decisions made in the hours and days following an arrest can have a lasting impact on the direction of a criminal case. Every case is different, and the right defense strategy depends on the specific facts and circumstances involved. Our attorneys use our years of experience in Pennsylvania criminal defense law to influence how we handle new cases. This may involve:
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Challenging evidence that was obtained unlawfully, such as through an illegal search, an improper traffic stop, an unlawful detention, or a violation of a person’s rights. For example, if police failed to follow required procedures, we may examine whether that evidence can be excluded from the case.
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Investigating the reliability of witness statements. Witness testimony can play a significant role in a criminal case, but statements are not always accurate or complete. For instance, we may investigate whether a witness’s memory was affected by stress or outside influence.
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Pursuing favorable plea agreements. In some cases, negotiating with prosecutors may provide the best path toward minimizing the potential consequences of a criminal charge. Our attorneys work to identify opportunities for alternative sentencing options that may better protect a client’s future.
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Seeking dismissal. When the evidence does not support the charges or legal issues exist with how a case was handled, our attorneys may pursue dismissal. Dismissal means that a criminal charge is ended by the court and the case does not proceed to a conviction.
Seek Trusted Legal Counsel From Our Carlisle Criminal Defense Lawyers
Our Carlisle criminal defense attorneys are prepared to stand by your side. Contact Mette Attorneys at Law today online or by calling 717-928-8424 to meet with our team and learn how we can help you navigate your case.