Pittsburgh Criminal Defense Blog | Worgul, Sarna & Ness

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Penalties for Driving Without a License in Pennsylvania

TL;DR: Penalties for Driving Without a PA License Driving Without a License: In Pennsylvania, driving without a license is a summary offense with fines ranging from $25 to $200. If you can prove you were licensed at the time or…

How to Find Out if You Have a Warrant in Pennsylvania

TL;DR: Do I Have a Warrant in Pennsylvania? Types of Warrants: In Pennsylvania, there are bench warrants (for missing court or violating orders) and arrest warrants (issued based on probable cause for criminal activity). How to Check for a Warrant:…

Is Pennsylvania a Stop and ID State? Know Your Rights During Police Encounters

TL;DR: Is PA A Stop and ID State? Stop and ID in Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania is not a “Stop and ID” state. You are only required to provide ID during traffic stops or if detained/arrested with reasonable suspicion of criminal activity….

What Happens When the Police Break Up a Party?

TL;DR: What Happens When PA Police Break Up a Party? Police Can Break Up Parties: Officers may break up parties due to noise complaints or suspected underage drinking. They may arrest minors and homeowners for allowing it. What Happens During…

Defending Against Concealed Weapon Charges in Pennsylvania

Charged with carrying a concealed firearm? You have legal options. Being arrested for carrying a concealed weapon in Pennsylvania can lead to serious consequences, especially if you didn’t realize you were breaking the law or believed you had the right…

What to Do if a No Contact Order Is Issued Against You in Pittsburgh, PA

No Contact Order PA In Pennsylvania, a no-contact order, also known as a Protection from Abuse (PFA) order, is a court order that restricts the abuser from contacting the victim, their children, or anyone else named in the order. This order…

How Long after a Crime Can You Be Charged in PA?

Understanding the statute of limitations in Pennsylvania is crucial for anyone involved in or concerned about potential criminal charges. The statute of limitations determines how long after a crime has been committed a person can be charged. You may be…

What is Pennsylvania’s 5-Day Rule for DUI Charges?

TL;DR: Pennsylvania’s 5 Day Rule for DUI’s 5-Day Rule: DUI offenders must be released after arrest unless deemed a flight risk or danger, and charges must be filed within five days. DUI Filing Timeline: The 5-Day Rule ensures timely filings…

What Is Blood Alcohol Content (BAC)?

You may have heard the term blood alcohol content (BAC) in relation to driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol. But understanding your blood alcohol content is more than just knowing a number, it can help you comply with the…

Why Are Police in PA Looking for Green Tongues in Marijuana DUI Stops?

Many drivers across Pennsylvania have reported that police officers checked their tongues for a green coating during traffic stops. While this may seem unusual, it is a long-standing practice used by law enforcement agencies across the U.S. Some officers believe…