Facing criminal charges in Jefferson County, PA, is no laughing matter. Irrespective of the perceived seriousness of the alleged crime, any conviction in Pennsylvania can lead to penalties, possible incarceration, and a criminal record that may shadow you for years. Because prosecutors often aim for the toughest penalties allowed by state law, if you attempt to face criminal charges without skilled legal representation in your corner, your risk of being convicted increases--as does your risk of facing the toughest sentences allowed by law. Engaging an experienced Pennsylvania criminal defense attorney is your best hope of improving your chances of receiving a favorable outcome, whether it's a more lenient sentence, an acquittal, or even a dismissal of the charges.
The Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm has a strong history of defending individuals accused of crimes in Jefferson County. We are committed to working on your behalf, guiding you through the judicial process, negotiating with prosecutors, and representing you aggressively in court to ensure the best possible result. Contact the LLF Law Firm today at 888-535-3686 or use our online form.
Jefferson County Criminal Procedures
In Jefferson County, criminal cases are handled by two types of courts: the Magisterial District Courts and the Court of Common Pleas.
Jefferson County is served by three Magisterial District Courts, each covering its own division. These courts handle tasks such as issuing warrants, setting bail, conducting preliminary arraignments and hearings, and transferring or dismissing cases to higher courts.
The Court of Common Pleas for Jefferson County is located at the Jefferson County Courthouse, 200 Main Street in Brookville, PA. This court manages legal proceedings such as formal arraignments, trials by judge or jury, pre- and post-trial motions, and sentencing.
Jefferson County Magisterial District Courts
If charged with a crime in Jefferson County, your preliminary arraignment will take place before the Magisterial District judge for your area, either in person or via videoconference. The judge will evaluate the charges, schedule the preliminary hearing, and decide on bail, if applicable. The bail amount is influenced by several factors, including:
- The motivations behind the offense (e.g., aggravating factors or premeditation).
- Your connections to Jefferson County (e.g., employment, family, community involvement).
- Previous convictions or other court orders against you.
- Whether the judge perceives you as a potential threat to the community.
The nature of the offense greatly affects the progression of your case. In Pennsylvania, crimes fall into three categories:
Summary Offenses: These carry a maximum sentence of 90 days in jail and are generally resolved in Magisterial Court.
Misdemeanors: While some minor offenses are handled in Magisterial Court, most are moved to the Court of Common Pleas.
- First-degree misdemeanors can lead to up to five years of imprisonment and fines up to $10,000.
- Second-degree misdemeanors can result in up to two years of imprisonment and fines up to $5,000.
- Third-degree misdemeanors can result in up to one year of imprisonment and fines of up to $2,500.
Felonies: These serious crimes are always adjudicated by the Court of Common Pleas.
- First-degree felonies carry penalties of up to 20 years in prison and fines of up to $25,000.
- Second-degree felonies may lead to up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $25,000.
- Third-degree felonies can result in up to seven years in prison and fines up to $15,000.
Preliminary Hearing
In the Magisterial District Court, the preliminary hearing takes place to assess whether there is sufficient cause for a trial. Both the defense and prosecution have the opportunity to present evidence; however, the focus is not on determining guilt or innocence at this hearing but on ascertaining if enough evidence exists against you to warrant a trial. It is the prosecution's responsibility to prove to the judge that the case against you has merit. If they cannot provide convincing evidence, the judge may dismiss the case. If the evidence is deemed sufficient, the case will advance to the Court of Common Pleas.
Jefferson County Court of Common Pleas
If your case advances to the Court of Common Pleas, your first hearing will be a formal arraignment, where charges are read to you, and you are informed of your rights before trial. During the pretrial phase, the attorney may undertake actions such as:
- Requesting evidence
- Filing motions to suppress evidence
- Negotiating plea deals
- Filing for discovery
- Requesting trial delays
For felonies and misdemeanors with potential sentences over six months, the defendant is entitled to a jury trial. Alternatively, the defendant may waive this right in favor of a bench trial, where the judge solely determines the outcome of the case.
Trial and Sentencing
At trial, both sides present their case with evidence and testimonies. The prosecution must establish the defendant's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in criminal cases.
In a bench trial, upon conclusion of the closing arguments, the judge will deliver a verdict. In a jury trial, the jury will leave to deliberate to reach a verdict, which must be unanimous. If the outcome is "not guilty," the defendant is immediately released. If "guilty," a sentencing hearing is scheduled.
Before sentencing, the Jefferson County Adult Probation & Parole Department will compile a pre-sentence investigation report. Considerations for sentencing may include:
- Community responsibilities
- Employment and family duties
- Past criminal record
- Likelihood of re-offending
- Health issues
During the sentencing hearing, the defense may advocate for specific conditions, such as reduced incarceration or alternatives to jail. The judge might also allow victim impact statements to argue for harsher penalties. The final sentence will be determined based on all these factors.
Appealing Jefferson County Criminal Convictions
If you receive a conviction or sentence in Jefferson County, you can challenge the decision by filing an appeal with the Pennsylvania Superior Court within 30 days of sentencing or after post-sentencing motions, with all necessary documentation. An appeal differs from a new trial; it involves the Superior Court reviewing specific issues that the defense believes the Court of Common Pleas mishandled, such as bias or procedural errors. This review is limited to the trial records and evidence presented. If the appeal fails, you may seek a review by the Pennsylvania Supreme Court, although only a small number of requests are accepted.
Experienced Jefferson County Criminal Defense Team
Confronting criminal accusations in Jefferson County comes with potentially life-altering repercussions. It's not something you want to face alone. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team is well-versed in Pennsylvania criminal law and is dedicated to defending your rights and securing the best possible outcome. Contact us at 888-535-3686 or tell us about your case using our online form.
