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PITTSBURGH CRIMINAL DEFENSE LAWYERS

Criminal Defense Lawyer in Pittsburgh, PA

Being arrested or charged with a misdemeanor or felony can be a life-defining moment. A conviction can result in penalties such as fines and incarceration. Even after you have served your sentence, a criminal record can also affect your family, reputation, and ability to find employment. 

With so much at stake, you need an attorney who will explain your options for avoiding the most severe consequences.

An experienced Pittsburgh criminal defense lawyer can provide the support and advocacy you need at this critical time. The seasoned criminal lawyers at SMT Legal understand how anxious and overwhelmed you are feeling, and we want to set your mind at ease by crafting an effective and personalized strategy for your case. 

Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us give you the high-quality representation you deserve.

Categories of Charges in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

When you are charged with a crime in Pittsburgh, it will fall into one of three broad categories, each determining the type of penalties you may face upon conviction.

Summary Offenses

Summary offenses are the least serious category of criminal charges in Pennsylvania. These offenses are typically punishable by up to 90 days in jail and a fine of up to $300. Common examples of summary offenses include disorderly conduct, public drunkenness, and first-offense shoplifting. While these charges may seem minor, they can still result in a permanent criminal record that may affect your future employment and housing prospects.

Misdemeanor Charges

Misdemeanors are more serious than summary offenses but less severe than felonies. In Pennsylvania, misdemeanors are classified into three degrees, with first-degree misdemeanors being the most serious. Penalties for misdemeanors can include up to five years in prison and fines of up to $10,000, depending on the degree of the offense. Examples of misdemeanors include simple assault, DUI, and possession of a small amount of marijuana.

Felony Charges

Felonies are the most severe category of criminal charges in Pennsylvania. These offenses are punishable by more than five years in prison and significant fines. Felonies are also classified into three degrees, with first-degree felonies being the most severe. Examples of felonies include murder, rape, and armed robbery. A felony conviction can have far-reaching consequences, including difficulty finding employment, housing, and loans.

Types of Charges We Can Help Defend You Against

At SMT Legal, our experienced criminal defense attorneys have successfully defended clients against many criminal charges. Some of the most common types of charges we handle include:
  • Assault – Assault and battery charges can range from misdemeanors to felonies, depending on the severity of the alleged offense and whether a weapon was involved.
  • DUI – Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense in Pennsylvania, with penalties that can include jail time, fines, and license suspension.
  • Drug Crimes – We represent individuals charged with possession, distribution, and trafficking of illegal drugs. We also defend clients against prescription drug charges.
  • Federal Crimes – We have experience defending clients against federal criminal charges, which often carry more severe penalties than state charges and require a deep understanding of the federal criminal justice system.
  • Internet Crimes – As technology evolves, so do the types of crimes committed online. We defend clients accused of various internet crimes, such as cyberstalking, hacking, and identity theft.
  • Involuntary Manslaughter – Involuntary manslaughter charges can arise from unintentional deaths caused by negligence or recklessness. We work to protect our clients’ rights and minimize the consequences of these charges.
  • Sex Crimes – Sex crime charges, such as sexual assault and child pornography, can carry severe penalties and lifelong consequences.
  • Theft – Theft charges can range from summary offenses to felonies, depending on the value of the stolen property and the circumstances of the alleged offense.
  • Violent Crime – We represent clients charged with violent crimes such as murder, manslaughter, and aggravated assault.
  • WhiteCollar Crimes We defend clients accused of white-collar crimes such as fraud, embezzlement, and money laundering.

What to Do If You Are Charged with a Crime in Pittsburgh

If you are charged with a crime in Pittsburgh, it is crucial to take immediate action to protect your rights and future. First, remain calm and exercise your right to remain silent. Do not discuss your case with anyone except your attorney, as anything you say can be used against you. Contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer as soon as possible to guide you through the legal process and develop a strong defense strategy. Be honest with your attorney about the circumstances of your charges, as this information will be essential in building your case.

Possible Defense Strategies

The best defense strategy for your criminal case will depend on the specific circumstances and evidence involved. Some common defense strategies include challenging the validity of evidence, questioning the credibility of witnesses, and arguing that law enforcement violated your constitutional rights during the arrest or investigation. In some cases, your attorney may negotiate a plea bargain with prosecutors to reduce your charges or sentence in exchange for a guilty plea.
If your case goes to trial, your lawyer will work to present a compelling case to the jury and raise a reasonable doubt about your guilt. With the right defense strategy, you may be able to avoid a conviction or minimize the consequences of a criminal charge.

Why Hire SMT Legal for Your Criminal Defense?

If you are facing criminal charges, one of the most significant factors that may determine the outcome of your case is the quality of the attorney you choose. The right lawyer can mean the difference between freedom and incarceration. The seasoned team at SMT Legal understands what is at stake, and we are ready to fight tenaciously for your liberty. We are passionate about the principle of “innocent until proven guilty,” and we will ensure the justice system respects your rights every step of the way.

With many decades of combined experience guiding clients through the Pennsylvania legal system, our attorneys understand what it takes to get charges dismissed, negotiate a plea bargain, or secure an acquittal. If you are convicted, our lawyers will do everything we can to help you avoid the harshest penalties. We will also stand by you during the appeals process so that you have every chance to clear your name.

Contact an Experienced Pennsylvania Criminal Defense Attorney Today

If you or someone you love has been charged with a crime in Pittsburgh, you are probably experiencing one of the most stressful times in your life. However, it is crucial to remember that criminal charges are not the same as criminal convictions. You have legal options that may help you secure a favorable outcome, but maintaining your freedom requires swift action. The sooner you consult with an experienced Pittsburgh criminal defense attorney, the more time your lawyer will have to take the necessary steps to protect you.

At SMT Legal, we are passionate about protecting the rights of those charged with crimes. Let us use our thorough knowledge of Pennsylvania criminal law to protect you from prosecution. 

With us on your side, you can optimize your chances of a favorable outcome in your case. Call us today or contact us online for a free consultation to learn more about what our criminal defense team can do for you.

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