What if I’m Arrested While on ARD?
Every county handles ARD probation violations differently; however, a general violation of the program’s requirements can land you in hot water. Even an arrest and new criminal charges without a formal conviction can revoke your ARD probation. You may return…
Why Knowing the Number of PA Law Enforcement Agencies Matters
Pennsylvania has enacted laws to hold police officers accountable for misconduct, but how do citizens know that law enforcement actions are accurately reported? With PA Act 57, the legislature created a database that is supposed to track misconduct. More than…
Can My Social Media Be Used As Evidence in Court in Pennsylvania?
Yes, in many cases, your social media posts can be used as evidence against you in a criminal case. However, there are ways to protect yourself. Limiting what you post could prevent the prosecutor from finding incriminating content. Always remember…
How to Get the Most Out of a Plea Agreement in Pennsylvania
According to the Bureau of Justice Assistance, most criminal cases are resolved through plea bargaining. However, it can be hard to know when to accept a deal from the prosecutor. You must weigh the pros and cons of what is…
Police Misconduct Lawyers in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Police Misconduct and Civil Rights Violations in Pennsylvania Police officers are supposed to uphold the law and protect innocent citizens. However, officers’ actions have become questionable in many situations where they interact with the public, such as during the Black…
How Your Attorney’s Experience as a Public Defender Benefits Your Case
Public defenders have hefty caseloads, and unlike private attorneys, their cases are assigned to them. This means they handle all types of cases – and a lot of them. The attorneys at Worgul, Sarna & Ness use their history at…
The Real Cost of Court Fees & Fines in Pittsburgh & Allegheny County
When people are exposed to the criminal justice system for the first time, they are usually surprised by how unfair it is – especially when it comes to money. If you’re wealthy and facing charges, some cards aren’t stacked against…
When is There Probable Cause to Search a Vehicle in Pennsylvania?
Vehicle Search and Seizure Laws in Pennsylvania The Pennsylvania Supreme Court recently restricted the police’s ability to search your vehicle unless they have a very good reason. The court’s 55-page decision boils down to when officers can and cannot search…
How To Get Your Record Sealed or Expunged in Pittsburgh
If you’ve served your sentence and avoided any trouble with the law, you deserve a fresh start. You may be able to prevent the public from learning about your criminal record, or it may be erased from state files. Lifting…
6 Ways to Get Arrested Over the Holidays in Pittsburgh
It’s the most wonderful time of the year, but not if you’re in the back of a Pittsburgh police cruiser. Many charges over the holidays are related to alcohol or drug use, and with COVID-19 adding to the standard holiday…
