Pittsburgh Criminal Defense Blog | Worgul, Sarna & Ness

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7 Costly Mistakes to Avoid When Facing a DUI in Pennsylvania

A DUI charge in Pennsylvania can affect far more than your driving record. Depending on the circumstances, a conviction can result in fines, probation, license consequences, mandatory treatment or education, ignition interlock requirements, and even incarceration. The consequences can become…

Can I Refuse a Breathalyzer in Pennsylvania?

If you are stopped for suspected driving under the influence in Pennsylvania, you may be asked to submit to a breathalyzer or another form of chemical testing. Deciding how to respond can have consequences for both your driver’s license and…

What Does Mistrial Mean? Causes of a Mistrial and What Happens to Your Case

A mistrial occurs when some error in the trial process makes justice impossible if the proceedings continue. Most people have heard the word, but few know what a mistrial means for the person on trial. If your trial ended in…

What Is Megan’s Law? Pennsylvania’s Tiers, Registry, and Requirements Explained

What Is Megan’s Law? Megan’s Law is the common name for laws that require people convicted of certain sex crimes to register with law enforcement and that make information about those registrants available to the public. It is named for…

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

Key Takeaways: 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 or arrested with reasonable suspicion…

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

Key Takeaways: Pennsylvania’s 5-Day Rule for DUIs 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…

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:…

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…

What to Do if You’ve Been Arrested for Using SkipTheGames.com

When people hear the word “prostitution,” they often think of some seedy motel or dark alleyway. But nowadays, illegal escorting services are commonly found elsewhere, on the Internet. One study estimates that 80% of all sex sales now happen online….

Illegal & Legal Weapons You Can Carry in Pittsburgh

Pittsburgh weapon laws are broad. Knowing your local regulations is the best defense against the justice system. The type of weapon, its status, and your location all factor in when deciding whether you were lawfully or unlawfully possessing a weapon….