If you're accused of a crime in Huntingdon County, Pennsylvania, don't underestimate the severity of your circumstances. Even for seemingly minor offenses, Pennsylvania law allows judges to impose significant fines and jail time. For more serious offenses, the penalties can be quite severe--and the impacts to your life for any criminal conviction can follow you for years after you've served your sentence. Tackling these charges without the guidance of a skilled Pennsylvania criminal defense lawyer can heighten the likelihood of conviction and possibly result in more severe penalties.
To minimize the risks of severe penalties, reach out to the seasoned Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm. We have been successfully defending clients against criminal charges in Pennsylvania for many years, including in Huntingdon County. We are committed to protecting your rights and securing the fairest and most favorable possible resolution for your situation. Contact us at 888-535-3686 or fill out our contact form to schedule a consultation.
Categories of Crimes in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, criminal offenses are categorized into three primary classifications:
- Summary Offenses: These infractions are regarded as minor, less severe than misdemeanors, and include actions like public drunkenness, trespassing, and criminal mischief. The maximum punishment is 90 days in jail and a $300 fine, although fines are more frequently imposed than jail time.
- Misdemeanors: More serious than summary offenses, misdemeanors are divided into three tiers in Pennsylvania, with First-Degree being the most serious and Third-Degree the least. Penalties can include jail terms ranging from six months to five years and fines up to $10,000.
- Felonies: Felonies are the gravest charges, encompassing a wide array of offenses, including murder, aggravated assault, stalking, and others. Similar to misdemeanors, felonies are ranked into three degrees of severity. Sentences for felonies can range from 2-1/2 to 20 years, with fines reaching up to $50,000. For murder, penalties can extend from 40 years to life imprisonment, with fines hitting up to $50,000, and the death penalty remains an option for the most serious offenses.
Courts in Huntingdon County
When facing criminal charges in Huntingdon County, your case may proceed through different courts depending on the type of offense. Make sure you verify your court appearance details, as missing a scheduled court date can result in an arrest warrant and additional charges. The Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm will assist in coordinating your defense strategy and keeping track of your court schedule, ensuring you appear at the right place and time.
Huntingdon County is served by two primary types of courts:
- Court of Common Pleas: Located at 223 Penn Street Huntingdon, PA, this is the central trial court for the county. It handles both misdemeanor and felony cases after preliminary matters are addressed by the Magisterial District Courts.
- Magisterial District Courts: These courts oversee summary offenses and the initial stages of misdemeanor and felony cases. Huntingdon County has four Magisterial District Courts serving different parts of the county.
For summary offenses, your case will be handled entirely in the Magisterial District Court where the alleged incident happened. For misdemeanors or felonies, the process may start in a Magisterial District Court, with subsequent proceedings taking place in the Court of Common Pleas.
Criminal Trial Process in Huntingdon County
Defending against misdemeanor and felony charges in Huntingdon County often involves navigating both the Magisterial District Courts and the Court of Common Pleas. The general steps are as follows.
Preliminary Hearing
In this initial phase, a Magisterial District Judge evaluates the evidence to decide if the case should proceed. Bail conditions are also set here. The LLF Law Firm's team might negotiate for dismissing charges (if evidence is lacking) or for obtaining favorable bail terms if your trial is to move forward.
Formal Charges and Arraignment
Typically conducted in the Court of Common Pleas, the arraignment is where charges are formally read against you, and you can enter a plea. Your attorney may submit pre-trial motions to lessen or dismiss charges during this stage.
Trial
During a trial in the Court of Common Pleas, both sides present evidence and question witnesses before a judge or jury. All pertinent documents and witness lists are usually shared, and the prosecution must prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. After closing arguments, a verdict is given; if "not guilty," you are released, while a "guilty" decision leads to a sentencing hearing.
Sentencing
The Adult Probation/Parole Office oversees probation will compile a pre-sentencing report for the sentencing hearing. Factors affecting sentencing include community ties, employment, and previous criminal history. During the hearing, the defense can suggest specific terms like reduced jail time. The judge might also hear from victims or their families advocating for stricter penalties. Sentencing is usually immediate but can be delayed.
Many cases are settled before reaching trial through dismissals or plea bargains. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team can significantly influence the outcome during these negotiations, using their expertise in Pennsylvania law and strong connections with local prosecutors, courts, and judges to achieve the best possible resolutions, while also being prepared to defend your rights in court.
The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team: Your Advocate in Huntingdon County
Facing criminal charges in Huntingdon County can severely disrupt your life and your future. Even minor offenses can have lasting impacts if they lead to fines or penalties, highlighting the need for an experienced criminal defense attorney to get you the best outcome possible. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has effectively represented numerous clients across Pennsylvania, including in Huntingdon County, and stands ready to support you and safeguard your rights. Call the LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team today at 888-535-3686 or fill out our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.
