Criminal Defense FAQs

A criminal investigation or court notice raises immediate questions. These Pennsylvania criminal defense FAQs explain how to prepare for a conversation with Logue Law Group. For an overview of the process and evidence review, visit our Pittsburgh criminal defense guide.

Should I Speak With Police Before Hiring a Lawyer?

Contact a defense lawyer promptly if investigators want to interview you about suspected criminal conduct. Tell the lawyer whether you are detained, have received a subpoena, or have already made a statement. The appropriate response depends on the circumstances; do not ignore a court order or obstruct officers.

What if Police Want to Search My Car or Home?

A warrant is not required for every lawful search. The location, consent, claimed exception, and applicable Pennsylvania and federal protections matter. Give your lawyer any warrant, property receipt, and your account of what officers said and did. Counsel can evaluate the legal basis and scope of the search and whether a timely challenge is appropriate. The U.S. Courts Fourth Amendment overview explains the general framework; state protections can differ.

Do I Need a Lawyer for a Minor Charge?

Do not decide solely from the label “minor.” Ask counsel to review the actual charge, potential penalties, and any concerns about your record, license, employment, school, or immigration status. Bring the citation or complaint so the discussion addresses your situation rather than a general description of the offense.

What Is the Difference Between a Felony and a Misdemeanor?

Felonies and misdemeanors are different classifications of criminal offenses. The classification alone does not tell you the sentence in your case. Ask your attorney to identify each charged statute and grade, the applicable sentencing range, and any factors that may affect exposure. There is no single maximum sentence that applies to every felony.

What Should I Tell My Attorney, and Is It Confidential?

Be accurate and candid with your attorney, including about unfavorable facts and statements already made. A lawyer’s ethical duty of confidentiality and attorney-client privilege are related but distinct protections, and neither should be described as unlimited. Pennsylvania Rule 1.6 recognizes authorized disclosures and exceptions. Rule 1.18 addresses prospective-client consultations, even when representation does not follow, but not every unsolicited message qualifies. Ask how to share sensitive documents securely and who should attend the consultation.

What Should I Bring to a Consultation?

Bring the complaint or citation, summons, bail paperwork, hearing notices, warrants or property receipts, and any existing court orders. Prepare a short timeline, a list of witnesses and their contact information, and questions for counsel. Identify original messages, photographs, videos, and other potential evidence without editing or deleting them. Tell the office immediately about an upcoming hearing or response deadline.

What Happens After an Arrest or Criminal Complaint?

The route depends on the charge and court. Our Pennsylvania criminal case overview explains preliminary proceedings, arraignment, evidence review, motions, plea discussions, trial, and possible sentencing and review. Your hearing notice and counsel’s advice should guide your next action.

Can a Search Error or Missing Video Get My Case Dismissed?

Not automatically. Counsel must assess the facts, the governing rule, and the remedy available. A suppression motion seeks to exclude identified evidence; exclusion does not necessarily end a prosecution. Missing footage also requires investigation into what existed and what happened to it. See our evidence and defense guide for the records to discuss with counsel.

What Deadlines Should I Watch?

Provide every notice and order to counsel promptly. Court appearances, motions, post-sentence requests, and appeals can involve different deadlines. Do not calculate your deadline from a general website article or assume that requesting a consultation changes a court date. Ask the lawyer to confirm the specific dates and who will handle each required filing.

How Much Will My Defense Cost?

Fees depend on the scope of representation, charges, preparation, hearings, and whether trial or an appeal is involved. Ask for a written explanation of what the engagement covers, what expenses may be separate, and whether later proceedings require another agreement. A consultation is an opportunity to discuss these terms before deciding whether to hire the firm.

Is Jail Time a Possibility?

That assessment requires the actual charges and relevant history. Counsel can explain the potential exposure, available options, and uncertainties after reviewing the case. No lawyer can guarantee dismissal, an acquittal, or a particular sentence.

To discuss a Pennsylvania criminal matter, call 412-387-6901 or contact Logue Law Group. Start with your contact information, county, general charge, and next court date; ask the office how to provide sensitive details.