Marijuana laws have changed across the United States. In Pennsylvania, medical marijuana is legal under certain conditions, but the state prohibits recreational use. Residents and visitors alike need to understand the penalties for marijuana possession in the state....
Criminal Defense
Understanding when theft becomes a felony
Theft is a serious matter, especially in Pennsylvania. If you steal someone else's property, it can lead to hefty penalties. This offense, however, ranges in severity from a simple summary offense to a serious felony. The circumstances surrounding the theft, such as...
How to act when you’re arrested for theft
Being arrested for theft can be a distressing and overwhelming experience. It is important to remember that everyone has legal rights, and understanding how to navigate the situation can make a significant difference. If the police arrest you for theft in...
What are your Miranda rights?
When dealing with the possibility of a police interrogation, it is important that you keep your rights in mind. This primarily includes your Miranda rights, which actually offer a great deal of protection in very important matters when it comes to interacting with the...
What are the penalties for a first-time DUI in Pennsylvania?
If you are facing your first DUI charge in Pennsylvania, you should understand the potential consequences of a conviction. First-time offenders generally face lighter punishments than people with multiple DUIs. However, a variety of factors can impact your case and...
What are mandatory minimum sentences?
Pennsylvania no longer has any mandatory minimum sentencing guidelines, but other states still do follow this method of punishment for certain crimes. The American Civil Liberties Union explains a mandatory minimum sentence is one in which legislators determine the...
Will a DUI jeopardize your CDL forever?
Facing a conviction for driving under the influence can impact everything from your relationships to your career. If you drive for a living, having a DUI on your record could definitely impact your job. Knowing the fate of your CDL following a DUI can help you...
Do drug convictions still jeopardize federal financial aid?
Obtaining a bachelor's degree is more expensive than ever. In fact, according to reporting from U.S. News and World Report, the average cost of college tuition has increased by between 144% and 211% since 2000. The U.S. Department of Education says nearly 7 million...
Can using soft drugs for medicinal purposes lead to a DUI?
If you are a Pennsylvania driver who is a registered patient under the state's Medical Marijuana Program, you may have questions about what you can and cannot do. Laws around the United States vary in approaches to drugged driving, and understanding Pennsylvania's...
Can you lose your Pennsylvania teaching license due to DUI?
A conviction for driving under the influence in Pennsylvania may leave you facing steep fines, license suspensions and other sanctions. However, depending on what you do for a living, it may hurt you in other ways, too. If you hold a Pennsylvania teaching license and...