If you're charged with a crime in Perry County, Pennsylvania, don't underestimate the gravity of your situation. In Pennsylvania, even charges that seem minor can result in hefty fines or jail time. The consequences of a conviction for any crime can be life-altering, affecting you long after serving your sentence. Without seasoned legal representation, you face a higher likelihood of being convicted and/or receiving the maximum sentence for your alleged crime.

Thankfully, having a skilled legal team in your corner can significantly lessen the threat of severe consequences. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has a longstanding history of successfully defending clients across Pennsylvania, including those in Perry County. By combining strong negotiation tactics with effective defense strategies, we work to protect your rights and secure the best possible outcome for your case. To arrange a consultation, contact the LLF Law Firm at 888-535-3686 or fill out our contact form.

Categories of Crimes in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, criminal offenses are categorized into three primary types:

• Summary Offenses: These are considered minor offenses and less severe than misdemeanors, including actions like public intoxication and criminal mischief. While fines up to $300 are the most common penalty in these cases, a conviction can still result in up to 90 days in jail.
• Misdemeanors: More severe than summary offenses, misdemeanors are divided into three degrees, with the First Degree being the most serious. Penalties can range from six months to five years in prison and fines up to $10,000.
• Felonies: These are the most serious criminal offenses, including crimes such as murder, aggravated assault, and stalking. Felonies are also classified into three degrees of severity. Sentences range from 2-1/2 to 20 years in prison and fines up to $50,000. For murder cases, penalties can extend from 40 years to life imprisonment, with the death penalty applicable in the most extreme cases in Pennsylvania.

Courts in Perry County

When you're facing criminal charges in Perry County, you may make appearances in more than one court, depending on the nature of the alleged offense. Missing a court date can lead to an arrest warrant and additional charges. Along with coordinating your defense, the Criminal Defense Team at the LLF Law Firm will help you manage your court schedule to ensure you appear at the correct court at the right time.

Perry County's criminal cases are heard in two main types of courts:

• Court of Common Pleas: Located in the Perry County Courthouse on East Main Street in New Bloomfield, PA, this court acts as the main trial court for the county. It addresses misdemeanors and felonies after initial proceedings in the Magisterial District Courts are completed.
• Magisterial District Courts: These courts handle summary offenses and the preliminary stages of misdemeanor and felony cases. Perry County has three Magisterial Districts, each overseen by a magistrate judge.

If you are charged with a minor summary offense, your case will be handled solely by the Magisterial District Court with jurisdiction over your area. For misdemeanors or felonies, proceedings typically begin in the Magisterial District Court and are then moved to the Court of Common Pleas for trial.

Criminal Trial Process in Perry County

Handling misdemeanor and felony charges in Perry County involves interactions with both the Magisterial District Courts and the Court of Common Pleas. Here's a summary of how the process works.

Preliminary Hearing

During this initial phase, a Magisterial District Judge evaluates the evidence to decide if the case should proceed to trial. Bail conditions are also set, if applicable. At this stage, the LLF Law Firm Team can move to have charges dismissed due to insufficient evidence, negotiate to reduce charges, and/or secure favorable bail terms if the case is to continue.

Formal Charges and Arraignment

Typically conducted in the Court of Common Pleas, the arraignment involves formally reading the charges and having you enter a plea (guilty, not guilty, or no contest). At this stage, your lawyer may also file pre-trial motions to reduce or dismiss the charges by highlighting weaknesses in the evidence.

Trial

In the Court of Common Pleas, both prosecution and defense present evidence and question witnesses before a judge or jury. Document exchanges and witness lists are shared, and the prosecution must prove the case beyond a reasonable doubt. After closing arguments, the verdict is announced; a "not guilty" leads to release, while a "guilty" result moves to sentencing.

Sentencing

Following a conviction, the Perry County Probation & Parole Office prepares a pre-sentencing report on your behalf for the sentencing hearing, considering factors like community involvement, employment, and prior offenses. During sentencing, your attorney may propose specific terms, such as reduced incarceration time or probation. Victims may also advocate for harsher penalties.

While this process may seem daunting, the fact is that many cases can be resolved without the need for a trial--typically through case dismissals or plea bargains. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has an excellent track record of negotiating favorable outcomes for our clients during the pre-trial phase, leveraging our knowledge of Pennsylvania law and connections with local prosecutors and courts to achieve the best possible results while also being prepared to advocate for your rights in court.

The LLF Law Firm Criminal Defense Team: Your Ally in Perry County

Remember, any criminal conviction in Perry County, PA, can significantly affect your life and future prospects, even if the charge is minor. Prosecutors in Pennsylvania often seek the maximum penalties, and without the right legal team in your corner, your chances of significant penalties go up. The LLF Law Firm's Criminal Defense Team has been successfully defending clients in Perry County and across Pennsylvania for many years, and we are ready to fight for your rights. Call us today at 888-535-3686 or fill out our contact form to schedule a confidential consultation.